How Much Does Slate Flooring Cost?

Average Cost of Slate Floors*

*For an 800-square foot area

Cost of Slate Tile Per Square Foot

The average price of slate tiles is roughly $4 per square foot, and more expensive materials cost up to $10 per square foot. If money isn't an object for your project, you can even buy very high-end slate flooring materials at $15 to $28 per square foot.

Including labor, professional slate tile installation is usually between $10 and $16 per square foot. However, you could pay upwards of $40 per square foot if you opt for high-end materials. On the low end, you might only pay $9 per square foot if choosing more basic materials.

Outside Slate Tile Cost Per Square Foot

For both materials and labor, you can expect to pay anywhere from $9 to $40 per square foot to install slate tiles outside. One thing to keep in mind is that there are several projects that could influence or increase your total costs:

• Regrading a lawn costs: $980-$2,960 for most homeowners

• Excavating land prices: $50-$200 per cubic yard

• Cost to remove a tree: $750 on average

• Backyard renovation costs: At least $15,000

Another thing to note is that outdoor slate tile needs extra reinforcements, such as a veneer underlayer or existing patio. Find a flooring contractor in your area for a project quote.

Slate Pricing

Pricing for slate tiles varies by vendor and fluctuates depending on your location, but usually ranges between $4 to $10 per square foot. Some tiles can cost upwards of $28 per square foot or more. Sizing is obviously a major factor to consider, since you'll pay more for larger pieces of material.

Slate Floor Prices by Brand

Slate Slabs

The cost to build a stone patio made of slate slabs runs from $15 to $40 per square foot. Slate stone pavers or slabs are thicker than tiles.

DIY Slate Tile Floor vs. Hiring a Professional

Installing slate tile is something you can do on your own, particularly for smaller projects or if you are a DIY fanatic who is comfortable installing tile. However, if you’re looking for patterns, need to cover a wide area or have narrow spaces that require extra cutting, hiring a professional is your best bet.

If you hire a professional, be sure to ask about all the specifics when you get a quote. In addition to the cost of installing the tile itself, you'll want to make sure the estimate includes grouting and sealing the tiles. Most professionals include this in the cost, but get the quote in writing to protect yourself from hidden charges.

FAQs

Is slate expensive?

Slate tiles themselves can run anywhere from $4 to $28 per square foot, but most cost between $4 and $10 per square foot. They’re comparable in price to the cost of ceramic or porcelain tiles, which range from $5 to $10 per square foot.

Depending on the type of materials you use, slate tile can be pricey, but it can also be affordable.

How much does Home Depot tile installation cost per square foot?

Home Depot tile installation ranges from $1,000 to $1,500, but prices will vary for slate tile. Talk to a flooring installer near you for a quote.

How do you install slate tile?

Professionals do the following when installing slate tile:

1. Remove previous flooring, make sure the tiling region is flat and clean.

2. Apply mortar on the subfloor as an adhesive element.

3. Employ spacers to create the requisite gaps between the pieces.

4. Cut the edge tiles accordingly.

5. Begin placing tile, pushing down each piece when it’s in the correct spot.

6. Clean off any adhesive mortar that leaked onto pieces of tile.

7. Remove spacers and wait for the adhesive to dry.

8. Use a water sealant on the outer edges of all the connecting tile pieces before adding grout.