About Castohn Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″ Paver
Castohn Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″ is a wet-cast concrete paver designed to recreate the appearance and texture of natural slate while maintaining the dimensional consistency of a manufactured paving slab.
The 12″ × 36″ size provides a long rectangular format that works especially well for:
- Patios
- Walkways
- Courtyards
- Pool decks
- Garden paths
- Linear hardscape designs
- Mixed-size Mountain Slate patterns
Castohn’s Mountain Slate collection is designed with a natural slate-inspired texture, eased edges, consistent 2-1/2″ thickness, and slight color variation that helps create a more natural finished appearance.
Outdoor Warehouse Supply offers the Castohn Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″ paver as a special-order product.
| Product Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Castohn Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″ Paver |
| Brand | Castohn |
| Product Type | Wet-Cast Concrete Paver |
| Nominal Size | 12″ × 36″ |
| Nominal Thickness | 2-1/2″ |
| Nominal Surface Area | 3 sq. ft. per paver |
| Surface Texture | Natural slate texture |
| Edge Style | Eased edges |
| Appearance | Natural stone-inspired with slight color variation |
| Typical Applications | Patios, walkways, courtyards, pool decks & architectural hardscapes |
| Availability at OWS | Special Order |
| Service Area | Dallas–Fort Worth & North Texas |
What Is Castohn Mountain Slate?
Castohn Mountain Slate is a wet-cast concrete paving collection designed to mimic the natural texture and visual depth of slate.
Rather than having a flat or plain concrete appearance, Mountain Slate provides:
- Slate-inspired texture
- Subtle surface movement
- Eased edges
- Slight tonal variation
- Consistent manufactured dimensions
This makes it a strong option for customers who want a more natural-looking paving surface without the thickness variation often found in natural stone.
What Does Wet-Cast Concrete Mean?
Wet-cast concrete uses a more fluid concrete mix that is poured into detailed molds.
This helps reproduce:
- Fine surface textures
- Stone-like relief
- Natural-looking surface detail
- More organic visual character
Wet-cast concrete is commonly used for decorative hardscape products where appearance is especially important.
Why Choose a 12″ × 36″ Paver?
The 12″ × 36″ format has a long 1:3 proportion.
That makes it a good middle ground between shorter rectangular pavers and extremely long slabs such as 12″ × 48″.
The shape can create:
- Strong directional lines
- Clean modern layouts
- Staggered running patterns
- Mixed-size architectural designs
- Long walkway patterns
How Much Area Does One 12″ × 36″ Paver Cover?
A 12″ × 36″ paver measures:
1 ft. × 3 ft.
So each unit covers approximately:
3 square feet of nominal surface area
before accounting for joints.
How Many 12″ × 36″ Pavers Do I Need?
A simple estimating formula is:
Project square footage ÷ 3 = approximate number of pavers
For example:
| Project Area | Approx. Pavers Before Waste |
|---|---|
| 30 sq. ft. | 10 |
| 60 sq. ft. | 20 |
| 150 sq. ft. | 50 |
| 300 sq. ft. | 100 |
| 600 sq. ft. | 200 |
Always allow additional material for:
- Cuts
- Breakage
- Borders
- Pattern adjustments
- Future replacement
Because this is a special-order product, ordering enough material initially is especially important.
How Thick Is Mountain Slate?
Castohn Mountain Slate uses a consistent:
2-1/2″ thickness
This helps installers maintain predictable elevations and simplifies installation compared with natural stone that may vary in thickness.
Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″ for Patios
The 12″ × 36″ size works extremely well in patio designs.
Possible layouts include:
- Running bond
- Staggered patterns
- Linear layouts
- Alternating orientation
- Mixed-size Mountain Slate patterns
The long format provides architectural movement without being as visually dominant as a 48″ slab.
Mountain Slate for Walkways
This size is especially well suited to walkways.
Installed lengthwise, the 36″ dimension can visually guide the eye along the path.
Installed crosswise, it can create broader horizontal bands.
It works well for:
- Garden paths
- Entry walks
- Pool connections
- Courtyard walkways
Mountain Slate for Courtyards
Courtyards are another strong application.
The 12″ × 36″ format works well around:
- Outdoor kitchens
- Seating areas
- Fire features
- Garden walls
- Planters
- Water features
Its scale is large enough to look architectural while remaining adaptable to tighter spaces.
Mountain Slate for Pool Decks
Mountain Slate may be used in compatible pedestrian pool-deck applications.
The long rectangular format can create clean lines around:
- Pools
- Spas
- Pool houses
- Outdoor kitchens
- Covered patios
Pool-area installations should still account for:
- Drainage
- Proper slope
- Slip considerations
- Coping transitions
- Joint material
Mountain Slate for Mixed-Size Patterns
The 12″ × 36″ format can be especially useful as part of a mixed-size Mountain Slate design.
It can pair visually with sizes such as:
- 12″ × 24″
- 12″ × 48″
- 18″ × 36″
- 24″ × 24″
- 24″ × 36″
Combining different sizes can create a more custom architectural appearance.
What Does Mountain Slate Look Like?
Mountain Slate is designed to resemble natural slate rather than smooth concrete.
Customers should expect:
- Stone-like surface texture
- Slight relief
- Natural-looking variation
- Softer edges
- Visual depth
It is not intended to look perfectly uniform from piece to piece.
Does Mountain Slate Have Sharp Edges?
No.
Mountain Slate uses eased edges, which help create a softer and more natural appearance.
Are All Mountain Slate Pavers Identical?
No.
Slight variation in color and surface appearance is intentional.
That variation helps create a more natural-looking finished surface.
What Colors Are Available?
Castohn’s South-region Mountain Slate collection includes:
- Graphite
- Chocolate
- Pearl
- Southern Buff
Because this product is special order through OWS, customers should confirm current manufacturer availability before ordering.
Graphite Mountain Slate
Graphite provides a darker gray appearance.
It works especially well with:
- Modern architecture
- Charcoal hardscapes
- Black steel edging
- Gray retaining walls
- Cool-tone landscapes
Chocolate Mountain Slate
Chocolate provides a warm brown appearance.
It works well with:
- Brown natural stone
- Warm brick
- Rustic architecture
- Earth-tone landscapes
Pearl Mountain Slate
Pearl offers a lighter neutral appearance.
It pairs well with:
- White limestone
- Cream masonry
- Light stucco
- Contemporary homes
- Bright outdoor spaces
Southern Buff Mountain Slate
Southern Buff provides warm tan and buff coloration.
It coordinates well with:
- Texas limestone
- Cream stone
- Warm masonry
- Traditional North Texas architecture
Is Mountain Slate Natural Stone?
No.
It is a manufactured wet-cast concrete paver designed to replicate the texture and appearance of natural slate.
This provides more predictable:
- Thickness
- Dimensions
- Layout
- Finished elevations
while maintaining a stone-inspired appearance.
Mountain Slate vs. Natural Slate
| Castohn Mountain Slate | Natural Slate |
|---|---|
| Wet-cast concrete | Natural stone |
| Consistent thickness | Thickness may vary |
| Predictable dimensions | Natural dimensional variation |
| Molded slate texture | Natural geological texture |
| Easier estimating | More sorting and fitting |
| Controlled color families | Naturally variable color |
Mountain Slate vs. Standard Concrete Pavers
| Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″ | Standard Concrete Pavers |
|---|---|
| Long rectangular format | Usually smaller units |
| Natural slate texture | Often smoother texture |
| 3 sq. ft. per paver | Smaller coverage per piece |
| Wet-cast construction | Often dry-cast |
| Fewer joints | More joint lines |
| Strong architectural appearance | More traditional paving look |
12″ × 36″ vs. 12″ × 24″ Mountain Slate
| 12″ × 36″ | 12″ × 24″ |
|---|---|
| 3 sq. ft. per paver | 2 sq. ft. per paver |
| Longer linear appearance | More compact format |
| Fewer joints | More pattern flexibility |
| Better for broad open areas | Better for tighter layouts |
| Stronger directional effect | Easier handling |
12″ × 36″ vs. 12″ × 48″ Mountain Slate
| 12″ × 36″ | 12″ × 48″ |
|---|---|
| 3 sq. ft. per paver | 4 sq. ft. per paver |
| 36″ long | 48″ long |
| Easier to handle | More dramatic linear appearance |
| More flexible in smaller areas | Better in large open spaces |
| More joints | Fewer joints |
The 12″ × 36″ size provides a useful balance between design impact and handling.
Why Is Base Preparation Important?
Large-format pavers need even support.
If the bedding surface contains:
- High spots
- Low spots
- Voids
- Poor compaction
the paver can rock or settle unevenly.
This may contribute to:
- Cracking
- Movement
- Uneven joints
- Trip points
Proper base preparation is one of the most important parts of installation.
How Should the Base Be Prepared?
A typical pedestrian hardscape installation may include:
- Excavation
- Compacted subgrade
- Compacted aggregate base
- Uniform bedding layer
- Careful paver placement
- Proper edge restraint
- Compatible joint material
- Final adjustment and inspection
Always follow Castohn’s current installation requirements for the actual project.
Can Mountain Slate Be Installed Over Concrete?
Potentially.
Some wet-cast paving products can be installed over existing concrete using an approved overlay or mortar-set method.
The existing slab should first be evaluated for:
- Cracks
- Drainage
- Slope
- Structural stability
Does Mountain Slate Need Edge Restraint?
For most flexible-base installations, yes.
Edge restraint helps prevent the perimeter pavers from shifting outward.
Possible restraint systems include:
- Paver edging
- Concrete
- Steel edging
- Structural borders
What Joint Material Should Be Used?
Joint material should be selected based on:
- Joint width
- Joint depth
- Installation system
- Base configuration
Polymeric sand may be appropriate when all manufacturer specifications are satisfied.
Can Gator Maxx G2 Be Used?
Potentially.
Gator Maxx G2 may be suitable when:
- Joint width is within specification
- Joint depth is sufficient
- The base system is compatible
- Installation directions are followed
The actual installed joint dimensions should determine the final jointing product.
Can Mountain Slate Be Cut?
Yes.
Wet-cast concrete pavers can be cut around:
- Borders
- Corners
- Structures
- Drains
- Custom layouts
Use appropriate masonry-cutting equipment and proper silica-dust controls.
Is the 12″ × 36″ Mountain Slate Paver Heavy?
Yes.
A 12″ × 36″ × 2-1/2″ wet-cast concrete paver is a substantial unit.
OWS should confirm the current manufacturer weight before publishing an exact per-piece figure.
Customers and contractors should use appropriate:
- Lifting methods
- Crew size
- Material handling
- Jobsite access
Is the 12″ × 36″ Easier to Handle Than Larger Mountain Slate Pavers?
Generally yes.
Compared with:
- 24″ × 48″
- 36″ × 36″
- 12″ × 48″
the 12″ × 36″ size can be easier to maneuver.
However, it is still a heavy wet-cast concrete slab and should be handled carefully.
Is Mountain Slate Good for DIY Projects?
The 12″ × 36″ format may be manageable for experienced DIY customers on smaller projects.
However, successful installation still requires:
- Proper excavation
- Good compaction
- Accurate grading
- Consistent bedding
- Correct joint installation
Professional installation may be preferable for large patios and pool decks.
Can Mountain Slate Be Used on Driveways?
I would not advertise the 12″ × 36″ Mountain Slate paver for vehicular use unless Castohn specifically approves the proposed installation system.
OWS should primarily position this product for pedestrian hardscapes such as:
- Patios
- Walkways
- Courtyards
- Pool decks
Can Mountain Slate Be Sealed?
Yes.
A compatible wet-cast concrete sealer may help with:
- Stain resistance
- Easier cleaning
- Color enhancement
However, sealing can alter:
- Color
- Sheen
- Surface appearance
Always test a small area first.
How Should Mountain Slate Be Cleaned?
Routine maintenance may include:
- Sweeping
- Removing organic debris
- Cleaning spills promptly
- Using compatible concrete cleaners
Avoid aggressive chemicals that could damage or discolor the wet-cast finish.
Can Efflorescence Occur?
Yes.
Like other cement-based materials, Mountain Slate can sometimes develop temporary light mineral deposits known as efflorescence.
This is generally an appearance issue rather than a structural defect.
Is Castohn Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″ In Stock at OWS?
No.
Outdoor Warehouse Supply offers the Castohn Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″ paver as a special-order product.
How Do Special Orders Work?
Customers should provide OWS with:
- Desired color
- Approximate project square footage
- Quantity needed
- Project timeline
Our sales staff can then confirm:
- Current manufacturer availability
- Order requirements
- Lead time
- Pricing
- Pickup or delivery options
Why Should the Entire Project Be Ordered Together?
Concrete products can show slight variation between production runs.
Ordering all material together can help minimize visible differences between separate manufacturing lots.
Because this is a special-order product, it also helps ensure that enough matching material is available for the full project.
Can Special-Order Material Be Returned?
Special-order policies may differ from regular stocked products.
Customers should confirm OWS’s current special-order and return policy before placing an order.
Pros & Cons of Castohn Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Attractive 12″ × 36″ linear format | Special-order product |
| Approximately 3 sq. ft. per paver | Heavier than standard small pavers |
| Natural slate-inspired texture | Proper base preparation is critical |
| Consistent 2-1/2″ thickness | More difficult to handle than smaller modular pavers |
| Strong architectural appearance | Cutting requires proper masonry equipment |
| Easier to handle than 48″ slabs | Not automatically approved for vehicle traffic |
| Excellent for patios and walkways | Replacement units may require another special order |
| Four South-region colors | Color availability should be confirmed |
| Works well in mixed-size layouts | Higher installation complexity than basic pavers |
Castohn Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″ Pavers in Dallas–Fort Worth
Castohn Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″ pavers are an excellent option for Dallas–Fort Worth projects that need a long rectangular paving slab with the texture and visual character of natural slate.
The 1′ × 3′ format provides approximately 3 square feet of nominal surface coverage per paver and creates a clean linear look without being as oversized as some of the larger Mountain Slate slabs.
It works especially well for:
- Patios
- Walkways
- Courtyards
- Pool decks
- Garden paths
- Mixed-size architectural paving
Outdoor Warehouse Supply offers the Castohn Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″ paver by special order through our Plano and Lewisville locations.
Industry Contractor & Wholesale Pricing
Outdoor Warehouse Supply offers industry contractor and wholesale pricing for qualifying landscape contractors, hardscape installers, pool contractors, builders, designers, commercial landscapers, and other industry buyers.
Contractors can source Castohn Mountain Slate alongside base materials, Concrete Sand, polymeric joint materials, steel edging, retaining-wall products, and natural stone through OWS.
Contact our Plano or Lewisville sales staff for current color availability, special-order quantities, pricing, lead times, and delivery options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Castohn Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″?
It is a wet-cast concrete paver designed to reproduce the texture and appearance of natural slate.
How big is the 12″ × 36″ paver?
Approximately:
12 inches × 36 inches
or:
1 foot × 3 feet
How thick is it?
Approximately 2-1/2 inches.
How many square feet does one paver cover?
Approximately 3 square feet of nominal surface area.
Is Mountain Slate real slate?
No.
It is manufactured wet-cast concrete with a natural slate-inspired texture.
What colors are available?
Current South-region colors include:
- Graphite
- Chocolate
- Pearl
- Southern Buff
Availability should be confirmed before special ordering.
Does the color vary between pieces?
Yes.
Slight color variation is part of the intended natural appearance.
Are the edges sharp?
No.
Mountain Slate uses eased edges.
Is the 12″ × 36″ size good for patios?
Yes.
It is especially useful for linear and staggered patio designs.
Can it be used for walkways?
Yes.
Can it be used in courtyards?
Yes.
Can it be used around pools?
Yes, in compatible pedestrian pool-deck applications.
Can the 12″ × 36″ size be mixed with other Mountain Slate sizes?
Yes.
Its proportions work well alongside other rectangular and square Mountain Slate slabs.
How many 12″ × 36″ pavers do I need for 60 square feet?
Approximately 20 pavers before waste.
How many do I need for 150 square feet?
Approximately 50 pavers before waste.
Should I order extra material?
Yes.
Allow extra for cuts, breakage, pattern layout, and future replacement.
Does Mountain Slate need a compacted base?
Yes for typical flexible-base installations.
Why is base preparation important?
Large-format slabs require uniform support to help reduce rocking, settlement, and stress concentrations.
Can Mountain Slate be installed over concrete?
Potentially, with an approved installation method and a suitable existing slab.
Does it need edge restraint?
Most flexible-base installations should use proper edge restraint.
Can polymeric sand be used?
Potentially yes, if the joint width, depth, and base system meet the joint-material manufacturer’s specifications.
Can Gator Maxx G2 be used?
Potentially, provided all Alliance Gator requirements are satisfied.
Can Mountain Slate be cut?
Yes.
Use appropriate masonry-cutting equipment and silica-dust controls.
Is the 12″ × 36″ paver heavy?
Yes.
It is a substantial wet-cast concrete paver and should be handled accordingly.
Is it easier to handle than a 12″ × 48″ paver?
Generally yes because it is shorter, though it is still a heavy large-format concrete slab.
Is it good for DIY projects?
Smaller installations may be possible for experienced DIY customers, but professional installation may be preferable for large projects.
Can it be used on driveways?
OWS should not advertise it for vehicular traffic unless Castohn approves the specific installation system.
Can Mountain Slate be sealed?
Yes, with a compatible wet-cast concrete sealer.
Can efflorescence occur?
Yes.
Temporary mineral deposits can occur on cement-based concrete products.
Is the 12″ × 36″ Mountain Slate stocked at OWS?
No.
It is a special-order product.
Can OWS special order it?
Yes.
Contact our Plano or Lewisville sales staff for current colors, availability, pricing, and lead times.
Should I order the whole project at once?
Yes when practical.
This helps minimize production-lot color differences and ensures enough material is available.
Is Castohn Mountain Slate 12″ × 36″ available in Dallas–Fort Worth?
Yes, by special order through Outdoor Warehouse Supply.
