Dear James: The foyer floor by the front door has taken a beating from the children over the past 10 years. It is stain-resistant and available in a variety of shapes, surfaces and colors. When ...

QDEAR TIM: The house I grew up in has slate tile that seemed to be a random mix of squares and rectangles. I'd like to install this material in my home. Is that a job that a beginner can tackle ...

QDEAR TIM: I have a concrete fireplace hearth. Is it possible to cover it with slate? If so, is that difficult? Instead of slate, should I just install a hearth pad? -- Marianne C., Millis, Mass.