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In fact, the main reason slate flooring gets dirty or ruined can be traced to simple neglect. The actual care and maintenance of slate flooring is not a complicated subject. Although slate can be purchased in 12- x 12-inch tiles, random patterns of varying shapes are very popular as well. The reddish tans are the result of iron oxides.
Greens contain chlorite and blacks and grays contain carbon and/or graphite. Red-colored slates contain hematite, which gives them their red color. You will also find minor amounts of mica, calcite and other minerals. Again, you should make sure that any such commercial cleaner is NON-ACIDIC and designed for use on slate floors.Slate is made up of minerals of quartz and illite.
Many stone and tile manufacturers and retailers do sell products designed to remove grout stains (online stores would include those listed in the links above). Once you’ve determined it’s safe, apply shaving cream to the grout stain, let sit for about 15 minutes and rinse with warm water. Still, it is important to test the shaving cream on an inconspicuous spot to make sure it will not discolor the grout. If you do have colored grout, another alternative for stain removal may be shaving cream. Again, ONLY use this method if you DO NOT HAVE COLORED GROUT. After it is dry, re-spray with the 50/50 solution and whipe with a soft cloth or paper towel. Apply the paste to the stain and let it set. If the stain persists, make a paste of peroxide and baking soda (allowing the bubbles to settle before applying). Peroxide is a form of bleach and will discolor colored grout. Let stand for about 15 minutes and repeat. If the stained area is on grout that is NOT colored, spray the stain with a 50/50 solution of hydrogen peroxide and water. Use a small amount of water and detergent to scrub the area, then rinse. For slate floor stains that the mop misses, try using a hand-held scrub brush with nylon or other non-metal bristles. All slate floor spills should be wiped up immediately with a paper towel or soft cloth. Grout by nature is very porous and can easily absorb spills, which causes staining. Schedule Your Slate Floor Restoration Consultation Today! or Call us at 28Įven with regular maintenance, stains will still occur, especially in the grouted area of the slate floors. With over 40 years of experience in sealing slate floors, we will do the job right the first time increasing the overall life of your flooring. HOW TO CLEAN SLATE TILE PROFESSIONAL
Having a professional slate tile restoration expert like Bizaillion Floor seal your slate floor is the best option.
Although Stone and Tile Sealant can be found at most stone/tile retailers. One of the best ways to keep you slate floors looking their best is to apply sealant. It’s okay to vacuum a slate floor, but you must use ONLY a soft brush attachment and you must be very careful not to bang or jerk the vacuum cleaner on the floor as it may cause chipping, scratches, or other damages. Avoid rubber-backed mats on slate floors as the rubber may stick to or damage the slate. If at all possible, avoid wearing shoes on the slate altogether. Strategically place doormats outside the area where your slate floor is located so that people will at least wipe their shoes thoroughly before stepping on the slate.
Depending upon the location of your slate floor and the amount of traffic, it may be necessary to dry-mop the floor every day, making sure to take the mop outside after every use and give it a good shaking. You can find a variety of such mops at most home improvement stores or janitorial supply stores. Make sure you buy a good quality dust mop, and make sure it is not oil-based. Slate flooring, while beautiful, requires diligent maintenance to avoid unsightly dirt build-up and potential scratches.