Slate is a metamorphic that is tough, flaky, and durable, which is composed of compressed mud. The layer split, easily transforms it into beautiful tile. You can use the natural tile or cleft, or you can hone and polish the slate. Slate is commonly used more in mudrooms and bathrooms, though it is very versatile. it needs proper maintenance and care, in order to manage the beauty, condition, and lifespan. No matter where you have it, we at Silver State Floor Restoration would like to share some helpful tips today.
Why is My Slate Floor Flaking?
Slate can be expected to flake and break away from the tile, up to about the first 3 months after installation, spalling, the naturally, cleft flaky stone. Being a normal process, the slate settles, and spalling occurs. You will notice the excessive dust and small chips underfoot after the installation. In order to remove the chips and dust to preserve the slate’s condition, make certain to adamantly sweep the slate tile daily to remove the chips and dust. Use a vacuum with the beater bar deactivated with the bare floor setting or a hard surface vacuum. The spalling will stop, and the dust and debris will be from normal daily activity once the slate settles.
What is the Best Thing to Clean Slate?
Acidic and alkaline cleaners will likely cause the surface to etch since slate is a natural stone. It will be especially noticeable on slate that has been polished or honed, though may not be noticeable on cleft slate. To manage the grit and debris, sweep or vacuum the floor daily or as often as possible. Use natural stone cleaner and a cleaner with neutral pH level to wash the flooring. By staying away from any cleaners that have lemon or other citrus, or vinegar-based cleaners, you can avoid etching and other damage. After you have washed the slate tile, use a damp cloth or mop to rinse the cleaner off the surface. This will prevent water spots dry polished and honed slates with a soft cloth. For routine maintenance, professional cleaning is included. To remove the buildup that normal washing cannot cut through, hire a specialist to deep clean your slate tile every 6-12 months
Does Slate Need to Be Sealed?
There are many variations of slate tile including some made with quartzites. Since most slate is naturally porous, moisture and staining substances can be easily absorbed. Seal the slate every year or more often if needed to prevent staining and moisture buildup. By pouring an ounce or so of water on the surface, you can test the sealant. You need a new sealant application if after 10 minutes the water made the area darker. The sealant can last up to about a year depending on the cleaning, care, and foot traffic. Call a professional for sealing services to make sure that the sealing is done well. Before the sealant application to avoid trapping moisture, debris, and stains, keep in mind that the slate tile will need to be deep cleaned.
How Do You Get Scratches Out of Slate Tile?
Especially the areas that see high traffic areas, the slate tile may develop chalky-looking scratches from time to time. By applying mineral oil to the scratch and the surrounding area of the slate tile, you can disguise the scratch marks. Before you treat the scratches, the slate tile will need to be cleaned and completely. Administer the miner oil onto a clean, soft cloth and rub the oil into the scratch until it dissipates. A little of the scratch areas is sealed with mineral oil.
Slate Cleaning, Sealing, Polishing & More in Aliante, Anthem, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Inspirada, Mountain’s Edge, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Providence, Rhodes Ranch, Seven Hills, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, The Lakes, Tuscany Village & Las Vegas Nevada
Call Silver State Floor Restoration and let our certified experts serve you and ensure your slate tile is cleaned and sealed.