Thank you everyone for all the responses and photos. I am confident that the Montauk Black slate from HD will be great. But, I like the smoother look and feel of the F&D slate. I have samples of both slates and from a distance, they look very similar. The difference is the finish -- the F&D slate is as smooth as porcelain with a sheen while the HD slate is slightly textured without any sheen. I was hoping to hear good reviews for the F&D slate similar to the reviews for the HD slate, but it seems like the F&D slate is not as well known or used. I do recall a post by Mongo a while back indicating that honed slate should hold up well since the honing process might ruin fragile slate (I'm paraphrasing Mongo's post based on memory). By the way, HD in my area now stocks the Montauk Black slate. It is sourced from MSI, and I'm suspecting that most Montauk Black slate is from MSI since I have seen it in several flooring-specific stores, as well.

While birch is softer, it is still a hardwood. If you are wanting to match it, you could send me a sample and I could get as close as possible! Due to the natural wood grain there would be some variation. I will also point out, if you already have it and like it then go with it. Normally I would recommend something harder, such as maple, which would give you a similar look with that dark of a stain. But, at the same time, I would recommend going with what you like. It is after all your home and I feel you should be happy with where you live! If you would like to pursue this option, I would need a piece with darker variation that also has the tongue and groove. We specialize in working with solid hardwoods to build furniture. Everything we make is hand crafted by Amish craftsmen here in Holmes County, Ohio.

Is there any place in your home that you could steal 4 or 5 tiles from? A closet perhaps, or maybe the pantry? You'd have to remove them from wherever they are (hopefully not breaking in the process) and then deal with the area you removed them from. You can get away with a "close but not close enough" match if it is stuck in a closet.

Chamois from Mapei and I'm not sure on the grout line size, I asked for as thin as possible. We have kids and have no issues so far. Our dog is an outside dog but he has come inside a few times and no claw marks or anything.