The importance of cleaning slate floors

Slate is a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor flooring and tips on the maintenance and cleaning of indoor slate floors is a subject which is frequently asked by owners of newly installed floors.  Slate is a type of fine grained metamorphic rock, which naturally forms in layers. It is often streaked with bands of different colors, making it an attractive material for flooring tile. Slate floors are typically installed over grout, with grout being run between the individual flooring tiles.  Grout is a construction material which is highly porous, so caring for the grout will form part of the tips on keeping your floor clean.

It is important that a slate floor is professionally installed – as cutting the slate, installing the tiles and, in particular, applying the grout can be notoriously difficult tasks.  Mistakes made during the installation can leave vacuums in the grout which can facilitate future staining.  Slate is a relatively porous type of natural stone, so the first step (assuming correct and professional installation of the tiles) is the application of a good quality sealant.  A sealant basically ‘waterproofs’ the floor by adding an impermeable layer, which is particularly important if the slate is present in areas where spillages are likely, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

It is important to bear a few things in mind.  Firstly the floor should be thoroughly cleaned before the sealant is applied – you would be amazed how many people seal dirt and grime onto a natural stone floor.  Secondly, this sealant should be periodically stripped and re-applied in order to offer maximum protection to the floor.  Finally it is important that the right type of sealant is chosen – a professional company which deals with cleaning slate floors will be able to recommend the appropriate sealant for you.

Once a sealant has been applied, cleaning the floor is simplified – and can involve no more than a mop and warm water.  It is important, however, first to remove any surface dirt and grit which has been walked into the area.  This can cause surface scratching which can damage both the tiles and the sealant.  Regular sweeping (daily if possible) is recommended, as is the use of doormats to reduce the amount of dirt ‘walked in’. 

You may wish to add some detergent, soap or a neutral PH cleaner to the water while cleaning if there has been a surface build-up of grime or staining, and a stubborn stain can be shifted by adding a little vinegar.  It is advisable to avoid cleaning products with any acidic content or bleach as this can actually mark or dis-colour the stone itself.

If you have any doubts, or find a stain you cannot shift, the grout becomes stained or uneven etc – you would be well advised to contact a specialist in cleaning slate floors – who will be able to advise you further.