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Slate Cleaning

The Ultimate Guide to Professional Slate Floor Cleaning and Sealing In Surrey

Expert Slate Floor Cleaning and Sealing Services in Surrey

At Fabritec Tile Cleaning, we specialize in providing expert slate floor cleaning and sealing services in Surrey. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to not only restoring the natural beauty of your slate floors but also enhancing their durability, ensuring they remain a stunning feature of your home or business for years to come. By using eco-friendly products and a meticulous approach, we deliver comprehensive care that protects and elevates your floors.

Restore and Protect Your Slate Floors with Fabritec

Slate floors are renowned for their exceptional durability and unique natural beauty. However, without proper care, they can lose their luster and become prone to damage over time. Our specialized cleaning and sealing services are meticulously designed to address the specific challenges associated with slate flooring—from deep cleaning and stain removal to the application of protective sealants that significantly extend the life of your floors.

Understanding Slate Flooring

What is Slate?

Slate is a fine-grained, metamorphic rock that forms under intense heat and pressure, typically composed of clay, quartz, and other minerals. Its natural layering and variation in color make each slate tile unique. Slate is known for its durability, resistance to moisture, and aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for flooring in both residential and commercial settings.

The Benefits of Slate Flooring

Durability: Slate is one of the most durable natural stone flooring materials, able to withstand heavy traffic and resist scratches.
Aesthetic Appeal: The natural variations in color and texture give slate floors a distinctive, elegant look that enhances the beauty of any space.
Eco-Friendly: Slate is a natural material that doesn’t require any chemical processes for production, making it an environmentally friendly flooring option.
Versatility: Slate flooring is available in a wide range of colors and finishes, making it suitable for various design styles, from rustic to modern.

Challenges of Maintaining Slate Floors

Despite its many advantages, slate flooring is not without challenges. Without proper care, slate can become dull, scratched, or stained. It’s also porous, which means it can absorb liquids and stains if not properly sealed. Regular maintenance and the right cleaning and sealing techniques are crucial to preserving the appearance and functionality of slate floors.

Why Professional Cleaning is Essential

While routine cleaning can keep your slate floors looking good on a day-to-day basis, professional cleaning is necessary to tackle deep-seated dirt, stains, and buildup that regular mopping can't remove. Over time, dirt and debris can become embedded in the natural crevices of slate, dulling its appearance. Professional cleaning services use specialized equipment and techniques to thoroughly clean slate without damaging its surface.

The Professional Slate Cleaning Process

Initial Assessment

A thorough inspection of your slate flooring is the first step in the cleaning process. This assessment identifies areas of concern, such as deep stains, scratches, and general wear. Understanding the specific issues with your slate floor allows the professional to tailor the cleaning process accordingly.

Soiled Slate Floor Before Cleaning And Sealing

Initial Assessment: Of A Slate Floor In Kingston Upon Thames

Soil and Stains

There is visible soiling in areas of higher foot traffic, as evidenced by the dullness and discoloration compared to other parts of the tile. There are noticeable stains, where the slate and grout appears darker and uneven in color. These stains might have been caused by spills of liquids such as water, cooking oils, or acidic substances like vinegar or wine.

The soiling has lead to a less uniform appearance and potentially increase the vulnerability of the slate to further soiling if not addressed. The soiling will need to be removed with a strong alkaline slate cleaner and a rotary scrubbing machine. If these stains are deep-set, they might require specialized stain-removal techniques, such as the application of a poultice, to lift them out of the stone.

Surface Texture and Unevenness

The natural texture of the slate is visible, with some areas showing more pronounced ridges and crevices. There is also unevenness in the level of the tiles, which is common in natural stone floors.

The uneven texture can trap dirt and debris, making the floor more difficult to clean. It might also necessitate the use of specialized cleaning tools, such as low-pressure pressure rinsing, to ensure all crevices are properly cleaned.

Recommendation

Given these observations, the slate floor would benefit from a professional deep cleaning and sealing process. The initial assessment highlights the need for targeted stain removal, deep cleaning to address residue and surface wear, and potentially some attention to the grout lines. After cleaning, applying topical sealer will help protect the slate and enhance its natural color, while making maintenance much easier.

slate floor following initial assessment after cleaning and sealing

Slate floor after cleaning and during the initial phase of sealing using a hybrid topical sealer that will give the floor a hard-wearing, easy to clean finish

Pre-Cleaning Preparation

Before cleaning begins, the area is prepared to ensure that surrounding surfaces are protected. This may involve moving furniture, covering adjacent areas, and taking other precautions to prevent any damage during the cleaning process.

After the area has been cleared of furniture, remaining fixed furniture, sensitive decoration and adjoining floors are protected with protection so any splashes that may occur during cleaning do not affect the surfaces.

slate cleaning protecting sensitive furnishings

Delicate finishes protected against chemical splashes

Deep Cleaning

Scrubbing a Slate floor to remove ingrained soil

The deep cleaning process involves the use of eco-friendly, pH-balanced cleaning solutions and a rotary scrubbing machine to break down dirt, grime, and soils and sealer residues without harming the slate. For particularly stubborn stains, hot water pressure cleaning might be used to lift debris from the surface and crevices.

Hot water pressure cleaning and rinishg a green slate floor.

Grout Repair - Recolor

Damaged grout repaired with matching colour grout

Grout repair on slate flooring involves addressing the deterioration or damage of the grout lines between the slate tiles. Over time, grout can crack, crumble, or become discolored, compromising both the aesthetic and structural integrity of the floor.

The repair process typically begins by removing the damaged grout with a grout saw or a rotary tool, being careful not to damage the slate tiles. Once the old grout is removed, the area is cleaned thoroughly to remove dust and debris. New grout is then applied, carefully filling the joints between the tiles. After the grout is applied, it needs to be smoothed and cleaned off the tile surface, then allowed to cure properly. Sealing the grout afterward will protect it from future wear and tear, ensuring the longevity of the slate flooring.

Stained grout re-coloured

Over time, grout can become stained, discolored, or faded due to dirt, spills, and cleaning agents. A grout color restorer works by penetrating the grout lines and either restoring the original color or changing it to a new, desired shade. The product often comes in a liquid form, which is applied directly onto the grout lines using a brush or applicator. Once applied, it dries to a durable finish that can resist future staining and discoloration, giving the tile a cleaner and more uniform look. Additionally, many grout color restorers also contain sealants to help protect the grout from moisture and future wear.

Stain Removal

Slate floor with paint stain before cleaning

Slate can be prone to staining from spills of acidic substances like paint, wine, coffee, or vinegar. Professional cleaners use specialized stain-removal techniques that can lift even deep-set stains. In some cases, poultices (a paste made from cleaning agents) are applied to draw out stains from the porous stone.

Slate floor after paint stain removed, cleaned and sealed

Final Inspection

Final inspoection of a cleaned and sealed slate floor

After cleaning, the slate is carefully inspected to ensure that all dirt, stains, and imperfections have been removed. This step is critical to achieving a uniform, clean surface before sealing.

DIY Cleaning vs. Professional Cleaning

While it’s possible to clean slate floors yourself, homeowners do not have access to proprietary slate cleaners, sealers and equipment. Moreover, homeowners do not have the knowledget o deal with difficult stains or the experience to apply the best sealer system for the installation Professional cleaning ensures a better clean and helps protect the integrity of the slate.

The Importance of Sealing Slate Floors

Slate is a porous material, meaning it can absorb liquids and stains if left unsealed. Sealing provides a protective barrier that helps prevent moisture from penetrating the stone, which can lead to staining, erosion, and other forms of damage. A properly sealed slate floor is also easier to clean and maintain, as dirt and spills remain on the surface and can be wiped away easily.

Types of Sealers for Slate Flooring

Choosing the right sealer is crucial to the long-term protection of your slate floors. Here are the common types of sealers.

Natural Wax Sealers: These sealers are typically made from natural waxes, such as beeswax or carnauba wax, which are applied to the surface of the slate and then buffed to create a smooth, low-gloss sheen. The wax forms a protective layer that helps to repel water and dirt, making the floor easier to clean and maintain. In addition to protection, natural wax sealers deepen the color of the slate, giving it a warmer, richer appearance. They are an eco-friendly option, free from harsh chemicals, making them ideal for those looking to maintain their slate floors with environmentally conscious products. However, they are prone to attracting soil and must be cleaned with appropriate ph-neutral cleaners. Also, Regular reapplication is required to maintain the finish and protection.

Topical Sealers: Typically made from water-borne acrylic coatings, these sealers create a protective layer on the surface of slate, adding a glossy or satin finish. They are excellent for enhancing the color of the slate. While they generally need to be reapplied every 2 to 4 years, using the manufacturer's specialized cleaners can extend their lifespan.

Impregnating - Penetrating Sealers: Impregnating sealers soak into the stone, providing protection from within. They don't alter the appearance of the slate and offer long-lasting protection against stains and moisture. This type of sealer is ideal for those who want to maintain the natural, matte look of their slate floors. They will need to be re-applied every 12 months to maintain the correct levels of protection.

Enhancing Sealers: Enhancing sealers not only protect but also intensify the natural color and texture of the slate. These give slate a richer, more vibrant appearance, making them a popular choice for areas where the aesthetics of the floor are particularly important.

enhancing sealer deepens the colour of a slate floor

An enhancing sealer bringing out the colour of a slate floor

The Professional Sealing Process

Surface Preparation

Before sealing, it’s crucial that the slate is completely clean and dry. Any residual moisture can prevent the sealer from adhering properly. Professionals use fans, strong vacuum cleaners or other drying equipment to ensure the floor is ready for sealing. We also use moisture metres to ensure the tiles and particularly the grout is dry enough to seal.

Sealer Application

The chosen sealer is applied evenly across the slate, using tools like rollers, brushes, or sprayers to ensure full coverage. It’s important to apply the sealer in thin, even coats to avoid streaks or uneven spots. Between 4 and 6 coats of sealer will be applied depending on the make of the sealer. Professionals have the knowledge and patience to allow each coat to dry sufficiently before applying the next coat. If the underlying coat os not dry, you can create visible marks in the sealer.

Drying and Curing

After the sealer is applied, the floor needs time to dry and cure. This process can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the type of sealer used and the environmental conditions. During this time, it’s important to keep the floor free of foot traffic and moisture.

Impregnating and acrylic topical sealers can take light traffic in a couple of hours after the last coat. Some urethane sealers can take 6 to 8 hours before they have cured sufficiently for light traffic. Whichever seaelr has been used, ther sealer will take 3 to 4 days to fully cure and reach its maximum level of chemical and abrasion protection

Final Inspection

Once the sealer has cured, a final inspection ensures that the slate is evenly protected and that the desired finish has been achieved. Any touch-ups are done at this stage to ensure the floor looks perfect.
A final examination checklist will include

check the sealer is dry and ready for use
even sealer coverage
check grout lines and deep crevices

How Often Should Slate Be Sealed?

The frequency of resealing depends on the type of sealer used, the amount of foot traffic, and the conditions to which the slate is exposed. Generally, we recommended to reseal slate floors every 1-3 years. High-traffic areas or floors exposed to moisture may need more frequent annual resealing.

Long-Term Slate Floor Maintenance Tips

Daily Maintenance

Sweeping: Regularly sweep your slate floors to remove dirt and debris that can cause scratches.
Mopping: Use a damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for stone floors. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the slate.

Periodic Deep Cleaning

Even with regular maintenance, slate floors benefit from periodic deep cleaning to remove any buildup that accumulates over time. Consider scheduling a professional deep clean annually or as needed, depending on the condition of your floors.

Protecting Your Slate Floors

Use Rugs and Mats: Place rugs or mats at entryways to catch dirt and moisture before it reaches your slate floors.
Furniture Pads: Use felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches.
Wipe Up Spills Immediately: Slate can absorb liquids if left unsealed, so it’s important to wipe up spills as soon as they occur to prevent staining.

Dealing with Scratches and Chips

Small scratches can often be polished out or minimized using a color-enhancing sealer. For deeper scratches or chips, professional restoration may be necessary using a diamond polishing tool to blend the damaged area with the surrounding slate.

Author's Expertise

David Allen

David Allen isa consultant for Fabritec, bringing over 30 years of experience in stone floor restoration to his role. Formerly the founder and CEO of Abbey Floor Care, David has established himself as a leading expert in the industry. At Fabritec, he continues to apply his deep knowledge and passion for preserving and restoring natural stone surfaces, ensuring that clients receive the highest quality service and expertise.

Why Choose Fabritec Tile Cleaning?

At Fabritec, we are committed to delivering the highest quality slate floor cleaning and sealing services in Surrey. Here’s why you should trust us with your slate flooring:

Experienced Professionals

Our team has over 20 years of experience in handling all types of slate flooring, from residential kitchens to large commercial spaces. Every project is approached with the highest standard of care and expertise.

Eco-Friendly Solutions

We prioritize the use of safe, eco-friendly products that are gentle on your slate floors and safe for your family, pets, and the environment.

Proven Results

We have a long list of satisfied customers who have seen their floors transformed by our services. For example, one client praised our work on their historic home, where we restored a century-old slate floor to its original condition. Check out our testimonials to hear more from our happy clients.

Satisfaction Guarantee

We stand behind our work and guarantee your satisfaction. If you’re not completely happy with the results, we’ll return to make it right—no questions asked.

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