If you are looking for the best methods of Cleaning Slate Floors, so you are in the perfect place. Here you will get the best methods of floor cleaning. Slate is a popular choice for flooring, as there are a variety of designs, colors, and textures that, when professionally installed, provide a high-quality finish that should last for years if properly maintained.
There is also the perception that slate is easy to clean, after all, it is a durable substance that only requires cleaning with water. However, it can be surprisingly difficult to keep slate tile floors looking like new, but there are a number of maintenance tips that can help with this.
Here Is Cleaning Slate Floors Methods
If you’re worried about damaging your tiles while cleaning, here’s a general guide on how to cleaning slate tiles so you can keep them in the best condition possible.
Sweep / Vacuum
Slate flooring needs to be kept free of dust, dirt, and debris before it can be properly cleaned. It will simplify the job and make general cleaning much more effective.
Dirt containing pebbles and dirt particles can also cause scratches or abrasions on the floor, so it’s important to get rid of them as soon as possible.
Use a soft bristle broom or a vacuum with a soft attachment and scrub the floor thoroughly. Go to all the nooks and crannies to make sure all the debris is collected. Make sure you don’t accidentally use any accessories designed for rugs, as they could scratch the floor.
Clean the floor
When mopping your natural slate floor, be sure to use a suitable slate cleaner or mild dish soap. Using products with harsh chemicals could damage or alter the appearance of slate tiles, so be careful with your choice of cleaner. Mix with plenty of warm water to dilute it.
Soak the mop in the cleaning solution and squeeze out excess water. Start at the top of the room and work your way out, using gentle strokes to scrub the entire floor. Periodically soak and squeeze the mop to wash it, and if the water starts to get dirty, consider switching to fresh, clean water.
You can use a steam mop to pick up extra dirt and disinfect floors for deeper cleaning.
Teak oil
Clean or let the floor dry, then you can finish it off with a little teak oil. Teak oil can help improve the final appearance of the floor. Apply a thin layer with a soft cloth but do not wet the slate tiles, otherwise, they will start to absorb the oil. Slate oil can also be used.
Sealing of the slate floor
The best way to protect your slate floors is to seal them. If your floors aren’t sealed during installation, consider doing this during or immediately after installation. Or maybe you’ve recently moved into a home with slate floors and want to give them an extra layer. But first, determine if it is necessary.
You may need to use a chemical stripper to remove the old sealant before applying a new one. Some sealants will create a glossy finish, while others will have a natural look. Choose the right sealant for your type of slate and your style.
Thoroughly clean and dry floors before applying any sealant. Apply the sealant according to the instructions. Scrub the floor with a cotton cloth to remove the excess product once finished.
Special care
Slate floors scratch more easily than other flooring options. If a scratch does occur, you may be able to hide it by applying a little mineral oil. Properly sealed slate is stain resistant, but if a stain does occur, a commercially available stone floor stain remover can be used.
Alternatively, you can make your own wrap with a paste of flour and hydrogen peroxide. Spread it on the stain and let it sit for 6 hours, or overnight, covered with cling film. You can then remove it with a damp cloth or a soft scraper. There may be a need for more than one application.
What not to use on slate floors
Never use acidic or abrasive cleaners when scrubbing a slate floor or removing stains. Acidic cleaners, including regular vinegar, cause a chemical reaction that can affect the stone.
Aggressive cleaning agents can remove slate sealant and grout. Also, never use oil-based cleaners or mop treatments. Oils can make floors slippery and can clog the cracks and textured surface of the stone.
Faqs | Cleaning Slate Floors
How to renew slate floors?
One of the most effective restoration techniques used for slate floors is stripping. With this method it is possible to remove cleaning products and finishes such as waxes and soap residue, revealing the natural stone that has been hidden underneath.
Are slate floors difficult to clean?
Slate is a very low-maintenance floor. All it takes is regular cleaning to keep it clean. Slate tile flooring’s rough texture and variety of colors make it a very forgiving flooring material.
How do slate floors stay shiny?
If you want your slate tile to have a shiny, glossy look, use a topical gloss sealer. In addition to solvent-based sealers, water-based sealers are also available; however, solvent-based sealers will last longer.
Is there an easy way to cleaning slate floors?
Clean the slate tile floor with a mild cleanser. You can use a specific cleaning product to wash natural stone or any other cleaning solution that does not contain lemon or vinegar, preferably with a neutral pH. After washing, rinse well with clean water and let it air dry or wipe it gently
Also, read this: BEST CLEANING COMPANY DUBAI IN 2022