Replies

1. GBA Editor
   Martin Holladay | Oct 14, 2015 03:47pm | #1

   Tom,
   In your question, you asked about slate tile. The web link goes to a site that features mostly roofing slate. So I need to ask: are you talking about slate flooring or slate roofing?

   I don't know what you mean by "fake slate." I have a background as a New England roofer, so in my book, there is no such thing as fake slate. It's either slate or it isn't.

   Natural slate won't fade.

2. 
   iLikeDirt | Oct 14, 2015 04:02pm | #2

   I imagine "fake slate" would be something that is advertised as "slate-like" despite not being natural slate--same as any fake or synthetic version of a natural building material, such as this product that Tom is likely asking about: http://www.abedward.com/synthetic-slate-roofing/

3. GBA Editor
   Martin Holladay | Oct 14, 2015 04:30pm | #3

   Nate,
   I am aware of a variety of products that imitate slate. Some products imitate slate roofing; other products imitate slate floor tiles.

   My point is that we can't evaluate an alternative product without a brand name.

4. 
   STEPHEN SHEEHY | Oct 14, 2015 09:16pm | #4

   Tom. Cupa slate looks like a brand name for natural slate roofing. As Martin will tell you, a properly installed real slate roof will last longer than you will. It is very expensive.

   If you are considering slate flooring, I can tell you that my ten year old slate floor looks just as good as when it was installed.

5. Expert Member
   MALCOLM TAYLOR | Oct 14, 2015 11:04pm | #5

   Whaaat? No digression into its worth as a thermal mass, or installed over radiant heating? This place is going to the dogs :)