Materials

Slate

Slate Distinctive Natural Stone

Slate is a metamorphic rock with fine, plate-like cleavage – a trait that gives it its characteristic, layered surface structure. Its dark, earthy tones make it a timeless classic for roofs, facades and floors. At CAMT you can source slate from select regions in Germany and Spain – as a raw slab, cut to size, or fully finished for your project.

Properties of Slate

Its natural cleavability makes slate unique: split into thin, flat slabs, it creates a rustic, lightly textured surface that is naturally slip-resistant. With medium hardness, the material is easy to work while being extraordinarily weather-resistant.

Slate absorbs very little water and withstands frost and strong temperature swings with ease – one reason it has been prized as a roofing and facade material for centuries. Indoors, the honed variant offers a more elegant, even look. We're happy to advise you at the CAMT showroom in Riesa on the right variety for your project.

Origin	Germany (Moselle), Spain, Brazil
Hardness	3–4 Mohs, medium-hard
Colour spectrum	Anthracite, black, greenish grey, rust red
Surfaces	Cleft, honed
Formats	Slabs, tiles, roofing slate
Maintenance	Low – weatherproof

Applications for Slate

Flooring

Rustic slate floors lend living and entrance areas an earthy character.

Facades & Roofs

As facade and roofing slate, the material has reliably protected against the elements for centuries.

Kitchen Countertops

Honed slate brings a striking, dark note to modern kitchen concepts.

Bathroom & Washbasins

Water-repellent and dark-toned, slate is excellently suited to modern bathroom concepts.

Stairs

Finished cleft, slate offers naturally secure footing on stair treads.

Garden Paths

Slate slabs as a garden path combine a natural look with high weather resistance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Distinctive, layered structure with characteristic dark tones.
Highly weather-resistant – proven as a roofing and facade material.
Cleft surface offers naturally good grip.
Low maintenance thanks to low water absorption.

Cons

Limited colour spectrum – predominantly dark, earthy tones.
Cleft surface can trap dirt in its recesses.
Honed surfaces can be more sensitive to scratches.
Dark surfaces heat up more in direct sunlight.

Surfaces – Rustic to Elegant.

The surface finish determines the look, feel and slip resistance of your slate – we'll advise you on the right choice for your project:

Cleft – A natural split edge with rustic character, the classic choice for floors and facades.
Honed – Smooth and even, for an elegant, modern appearance.
Oiled – Intensifies colour depth and emphasises the natural pattern.
Roofing slate – Traditional cut for roofing and facade shingles.

Care – How Slate Stays Beautiful.

Thanks to its low water absorption, slate is one of the low-maintenance natural stones. With just a few simple steps, the surface stays in top condition for decades:

Regular sweeping and damp mopping are enough for most surfaces.
Occasional oiling noticeably refreshes colour depth and shine.
Abrasive cleaning agents should be avoided long-term.
No special protective measures are needed outdoors.

Slate Impressions

Frequently Asked Questions about Slate

The price depends heavily on origin, format and surface finish. We're happy to prepare an individual, no-obligation quote – contact us with your project details.

Yes, slate is extremely weather-resistant and is traditionally used for roofs, facades and terraces.

Yes, especially the cleft finish naturally offers secure, slip-resistant footing.

Regular sweeping and damp mopping are usually enough. Occasional oiling refreshes colour and shine.

We work with renowned quarries in Germany, Spain and Brazil.

Yes. On our CNC-controlled machinery in Riesa, we cut slate to the millimetre according to your measurements – from one-off pieces to series production. More on our Cutting page.