Slate tile flooring is a common choice because of its natural beauty; it is also long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing. All natural stone, however, requires a little more effort and cautious maintenance to keep its good looks. A slate tile floor can last for many years with the right stone care and maintenance, so it is definitely worth the extra work. Clean slate floors on a daily basis. This is particularly true in the initial months following installation, when they can experience a typical process of "spalling," in which little bits might flake off the surface. When the slate tile has had time to set, this should stop naturally. Use a mild cleaner to mop your slate tile floor. Use any other cleaning solution that doesn't contain lemon or vinegar, preferably one that is pH neutral, or a product designed specifically to clean natural stone. Use a soft towel or let it air dry after rinsing with clean water.
Best Way Of Keeping Rough Slate Floor Tiles Clean
Making sure they don't become very unclean in the first place is the easiest approach to maintain slate floors. A high-quality sealer can be applied to the floor to prevent liquids from permeating the stone and to give it a high gloss sheen. These sealers are sold by home improvement and flooring companies. Use many layers of sealer for the greatest results, but let each coat dry completely before adding the next one. A slate floor should not be waxed with regular wax because it will dull the stone and make it extremely slippery. The sealer needs to be replaced every few years because it will eventually become worn out from use; the old coats should be removed first. Using throw rugs and area rugs in the places where spills and stains are most likely to occur, such as by kitchen appliances and entryway, makes it simple to keep slate floors clean. Shoes should not be worn on slate floors as they will track in dirt, sand, and other debris that will stain and scratch the surface. Follow a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule to keep your slate flooring looking their best and to prevent long-term damage from spills.
Step By Step Process
Regardless of how carefully you maintain your flooring, it will still require frequent cleaning. Move any rugs or furniture before cleaning your slate floor to ensure that the entire surface is cleansed. This will maintain the flooring's uniform hue and wear. Yet, cleaning slate flooring is straightforward and only needs a few quick steps.
- To remove any dirt, sweep the floor first. You may also vacuum the floor with a soft-bristle attachment or a machine made for stone floors.
- Use a cotton-fiber cloth mop to dust-clean the floor. Sweep the mop consistently in the same direction while moving gently to prevent dust or dirt from being dispersed.
- If desired, add 1/4 cup of mild soap (dish detergent or a slate floor cleanser) to two gallons of warm water; if your floor is not particularly unclean, just water will do.
- To prevent the spread of contaminated water, mop the floor gently and often wring out the mop.
- Rinse the floor with a fresh mop and fresh water if it is sudsy or soapy. Before walking on the floor, give it enough time to completely dry by air.
Tips For Cleaning Slate Floors
- Never use vinegar or other acidic cleansers since they can harm the stone and cause discoloration.
- Be careful not to use scrub brushes with metal or hard bristles that could damage the flooring.
- To prevent transferring additional filth, only clean instruments (mops, sponges, etc.) should be used when cleaning the floor.
- To prevent the accumulation of debris or filth that could result in stains, sweep or dust mop your floor frequently as part of your housekeeping checklist.