![]() |
This table presents data on the quantity and value of dimension slate sold or used by producers in the United States, categorized by its primary applications such as flagging, roofing, flooring, and other uses. This information is crucial for understanding the economic and industrial significance of slate within the construction and architectural sectors, as slate is valued for its durability, aesthetic appeal, and versatility. Tracking these figures helps stakeholders assess market demand, production trends, and the overall health of the dimension slate industry, which supports various infrastructure and building projects nationwide.
Analyzing the data from 2021 to 2022 reveals a notable decline in both the quantity and value of dimension slate used across most categories. Total quantity decreased from 35,000 metric tons in 2021 to 25,500 metric tons in 2022, while total value dropped from $15.3 million to $14 million. The roofing segment experienced the most significant reduction in quantity, falling from 18,200 metric tons to 11,200 metric tons, although its value slightly increased from $11.5 million to $11.6 million, suggesting a possible rise in unit prices or a shift toward higher-quality slate. Flagging saw a decrease in quantity from 11,100 to 10,400 metric tons and a sharp decline in value from $2.3 million to $1.43 million. Flooring and other uses also declined in both quantity and value, with the "Other" category dropping substantially from 4,060 to 2,360 metric tons and from $724,000 to $335,000. These trends may reflect changing market conditions, shifts in construction practices, or supply chain factors affecting slate production and consumption.
| TABLE 12 | ||||||||||||||||||
| DIMENSION SLATE SOLD OR USED BY PRODUCERS IN THE UNITED STATES, BY USE1 | ||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2022 | |||||||||||||||||
| Quantity | Value | Quantity | Value | |||||||||||||||
| Use | (metric tons) | (thousands) | (metric tons) | (thousands) | ||||||||||||||
| Flagging | 11100 | r | 2300 | r | 10400 | 1430 | ||||||||||||
| Roofing | 18200 | 11500 | 11200 | 11600 | ||||||||||||||
| Flooring | 1660 | 743 | 1490 | 689 | ||||||||||||||
| Other2 | 4060 | 724 | 2360 | 335 | ||||||||||||||
| Total | 35000 | r | 15300 | r | 25500 | 14000 | ||||||||||||
rRevised.
1Table includes data available through November 2, 2023. Data are rounded to no more than three significant digits; may not add to totals shown.
2Includes structural and sanitary purposes, uses not specified, and uses not listed.
Source: United States Geological Survey Mineral Resources Program
See also: Dimension Stone statistics | Mineral commodity prices