Slate Cure
/ Clean
| Problems: |
streaks, white marks,
stains, discoloration, turned grey, dull, want wet look, non uniform
color, wax removal, scratches, flaking |
Most people personify
an inanimate object only when it fails to do something they expect
or it does something they don't expect.
My opinion about any stone material is that it is all good. How people
use it is what can be construed as bad.
Some slates are too soft and absorptive for a wet area. Natural cleft
material will never be flat. Honed slate will scratch. If people understand
what they are buying and understand where they are putting it then
slate is not usually a problem. Steven |
Q 5448: My problem is two fold. First,
the previous owner installed the slate floor in the bathroom with the toilet
in place and where there was a gap (any where from a 1/2" to 1")
he filled in with colored chalk. I want to repair this. If I do not or cannot
remove all the chalk, will this effect my grout joints? Second, where the
slate met the walls there is paint on the slate. Can I use ZIP STRIP (for
paint and clear finishes) to remove this, without damage to the slate? Thanks
for your time. Frank, July 23, Reply
Q 5445: Have
installed brazilian cinza slate tiles in the kitchen (cleft finish) and
same material in honed slab for the countertop. The kitchen is very small
(140 sq feet) and the countertop is approx 7 feet with cutouts for sink
and cooktop. Neither has been sealed and both have developed some stains.
the countertop stains are food based and the floor are grease, garden soil,
paint. I think I should seal both. How do I first clean the surfaces, and
then what sealer would you recommend for each surface. I have an electric
power washer and also a floor machine. thank you-- Naresh, July
23, Reply
Q 5444: We have a concrete base on a second
level outdoor patio. Two years later, the slate is buckling up. Thin set
was used to attach the slate to the concrete and grouting between the slate
tiles. When you tap on the tiles, there seems to be a hollow sound underneath?
Does this mean that it is loose? I’ve been told it does not. A outdoor
waterproof sealer was used on the tile when the patio was built. How can
I fix these tiles that have become loose and how can I prevent it from happening
again? Many thanks. Howard, July
23, Reply
R1:
First
question is where did the slate come from? Was the bottom gauged? How thick
was the material? And what is the drainage system like? Debra
Q 5443: I have a black slate counter top that
came out of a doctors office and it looks like it has never been sealed,
I want to put it outside on my deck and was wondering what would be the
best sealer to use to keep it from getting stained and to bring out some
shine?. Thanx, Frank, July 23, Reply
Q 5429: I am a builder and used slate on some
decks on two houses which are above living areas. I used GlazeNSeal Multipurpose
Sealer (2 coats) but I am experiencing a lot of efflorescence pushing out
at the edges of the decks and getting onto the shingle siding. The decks
were constructed with a pitch to the gutters and most of the effloresence
goes into the gutters but I did not curb the edges (mistake!) and during
heavy rains there is water and calcium salts pushed out the sides. I am
looking for the best sealer to minimize the amount of water that pentrates
the slate and grout lines. I know I can't stop it but if I can decrease
the water volume it will hopefully run down into the gutters and not out
the sides. Any recommendations on products??? I would appreciate your opinion.
Thanks! Dan, July 23, Reply
R1: Miracle
Sealer has a good sealer called Mira matt which should solve your problem
Willard
Q 5422: Hi, I have a problem with my bathroom
floor.......it is slate. I actually have slate in the kitchen and hall as
well although it is fine. In the bathroom it appears that water has got
underneath the sealer (I'm guessing). It is virtually white (my slate is
very dark). It looks okay when you first mop it but when it dries the white
patches come back. It is very frustrating. Can you sand slate? If you can,
would the white patches just reappear with time or do you think that the
sealing wasn't done properly. Looking forward to you advice. Sharyn, July
23, Reply
R1: Strip the sealer with acidtone from home
depot (nail polish remover) or solvent and re-seal with good acrylic sealer
or acrylic floor finish 3 coats Willard
| Q 5420: How
many types of bonding are there for marble? How many types of bonding
are there for slate? July 22, Reply |
| R1:
For marble there are two popular bonding agents, which are epoxy and
two-part acrylic glue. The former (more expensive) is more apt for
outdoor installations. The latter can be successfully used in indoor
installations. About slate I don't know anything and I don't want
to know anything! :) Ciao and good luck, Maurizio, Expert Panelist
|
| R2:
What
do you mean by bonding? It is a counter top, floor or landscaping
application? Honed or natural cleft? Debra |
Q 5419: I
bOUGHT SOME TAbLE TOPS FROM A SCHOOL LAb TO USE ON MY COUNTER TOPS CAN I
REFINISH THIS AND SEAL IT. ALSO HOW DO YOU CUT SLATE WITH OUT bREAKING IT
ANY INFORMATION WOULD GREATIL bE APPERCIATED. THANKS U T. July 22,
Reply
R1:
Slate is cut with diamond blades and water. Debra
Q 5417:
I too am trying to get some scratches from slate - no more than a fraction
of a mm deep. I've tried sandpaper, glasspaper, aluminium oxide sanding
disk, slow speed, high speed, with and without water but all I remove is
a microscopic amount of slate dust - I could be there for days ! Any ideas
where I am going wrong - are some types of slate much harder than others
(these are just common or garden wall tiles from the DIY store - no idea
of their original source. Thanks Stephen, July
22, Reply
R1:
Likely the softness is your problem. Usually, if a scratch occurs on a slate
tile,, if it is natural cleft, you simply oil the scratch and it falls in
line with the rest of the natural cleft. If the surface has been honed.
Further minor honing and sealing should do it. Slate, like any other material
can either be of low quality or high quality…Origin usually is a good
indicator. Does the slate have pyrite? These corrode and allow pits to form,
etc. Many slates from Asian countries are very soft and need to be sealed
every three months or so… Debra C. Donovan
Q 5416: My
husband and i are planning on installing black slate tile in our foyer.
This is a first for us, we have installed ceramic but never slate. Other
than sealing it is the installation different? Also, we are planning on
cutting the 4 corners off, and placing a 2x2 inch green slate sqare between
each black tile. How difficult is it to cut the tile, do I use the same
wet saw I would use if I were installing ceramic. Thanks for any advice
you can provide. Rachel, July
22, Reply
R1:
Install like ceramic. Just remember to seal once before applying grout.
This will ensure that the grout washes off the slate if it accidentally
gets onto the slate. Debra C. Donovan
Q 5415: My
Mom has two slate covered back stoops. Some of the slate pieces are starting
to come off. I would like to try and repair it for her. Any suggestions?
Thank you in advance for your help. Diane, July
22, Reply
Q 5414: We
are building a home and want to use slate for our large fireplace surround,
entry, porch, and basement stair landing. Can I buy slate from Home Depot
that will be good for these applications and what can I expect to pay for
black (gray) slate? Do some of the stores have better prices than others?
I can go to Dallas to buy. Thank You!!! Donna Lewis, July
22, Reply
R1: If
you purchase Vermont or Canadian or UK slate, you will be in good geology.
Debra
Q 5413: I
live in Vancouver, and would like to install a 16x16 black slate tiles for
my kitchen floor, mostly because I want black, I like the look of natural
stone, and apparently slate is a not as slippery as when wet as ceramic
tiles can be (which makes sense in a kitchen)
I have read many questions on the findstone site, and it has just confused
me even more, so many conflicting answers.
Are there differences between slates (aside from colour) if I am looking
for black slate, is black slate, black slate? Or are there some that are
better than others? Do I just tell my flooring contractor that I want black
slate, and let him go get it?
I do prefer a little more shine than slate offers, and one tile store showed
me how a few coats of sealer can make the slate less dull, yet I have read
many q&a on this site that leads me to think this is not necessarily
so.Thank you Marie, July
22, Reply
Q 5411: My
neighbor removed all the slate from her yard. They are irregular pieces.
Most at least one inch thick. Can I install this as a kitchen floor? Thanks!
Annemarie, July
22, Reply
R1:
We offer gauged irregular slate flooring. Coming from outdoors, need to
know where it came from. You will have weight issues and installation will
be more challenging where the slate is not all the same thickness and the
bottom will not be perfectly flat. Debra
Q 5410:
I am contemplating changing my exposed aggregate patio by overlaying it
with slate flagstones. I prefer not to use cement as some people do. Can
I use the sand method? The patio is quite low versus the house so I've plenty
of room to put more layers on it w/o it becoming too high. If I use the
sand method, do I also use grout? [This email was prepared using voice recognition
software rather than keyboarding; please disregard any formatting glitches
or the like. Sara, July
22, Reply
Q 5408: I
recently had an outdoor slate floor (black with a blue-ish tint) installed.
It's about 300 sq ft. The tiles are 2 foot square and 1 inch thick and are
set at 3/4 inch spacing finished with a dark colored outdoor grout. Shortly
after the installers left and after a few rainfalls, I noticed that a white-ish
film was developing in a pattern matching the rain runoff. It looks a bit
like efflorescence, but might be coming from the grout?
In addition, I'd like the color of the floor to be a richer, deeper color.
Maybe not so flat.
I've read about color enhancers, but don't know if I also need a sealer
and if so, is it applied before or after the enhancer. Finally, with the
enhancer do the job of sealing the grout or does that need something completely
separate.Anyway, I'd appreciate your help in this dilemma.If pictures would
help, I'd be happy to send them.Regards, Rick July
22, Reply
R1:
The grout is likely causing the problem. The grout would need to be
sealed. If you used a slate oil/sealer, it could do both jobs for you. but
you need to ensure that the surface is truly dry. Is there good drainage
from your base?. Concrete absorbs water and the moisture is coming from
the bottom. Debra C.
Q 5407: I
just purchased a house and the black slate floor is starting to turn white
and the surface is flaking. It turns out that in 1997 the floor was stripped
and then a "wet look" lacquer was applied. Since then it has had
coats of sealer to help it shine. I want to remove all coatings and start
over from the bare stone/slate.What should I use to remove these finishes
and how should I proceed in sealing it to get the dark black and low gloss
look, July
22, Reply
R1:
Paint
stripper would likely work. but could do damage to the grout. The slate
can withstand any chemical (if it is a quality slate) The grout is your
weak link. Debra C. Donovan
Q 5406: I
am putting a raised stacked stone hearth at my fireplace and need suggestions
for a hearth cap. I want a surface that I can sit on and maybe set a drink
on (not too uneven). I love slate and have slate designs in my kitchen backsplash
which is adjacent to my fireplace room.Would slate be appropriate? If not,
any suggestions? Pam, July
22, Reply
Q 5403: Laid
1200 square feet of slate outside on porch and patio. Though the installation
looks fine, the finished used on it (Aqua Mix Stone Enhancer) seems to have
created a dull, grayish look that makes all the color in the slate disappear,
particularly in the sunlight. A few tile installers have looked at it and
said it's not supposed to look like this. I hate the "shiny" look
and want it to be natural stone look but with more color and maybe only
a bit of a sheen that picks up light. Any suggestions? Thanks. Ann,
July
22, Reply
| Q 5402: I
am studying an interior design course and currently have to do a paper
on interior use of marble and slates. I am having difficulty getting
technical information and are wondering if you can help me. below
is a list of the information I need. Composition (i.e. calcium carbonate
etc and what type of rock it is i.e. I know marble is metamorphic)
Hardness (rating i.e.. Marble is 3 for soft and an explanation - "can
be easily scratched") Absorption rating and what it absorbs (water
/ oil?) Sealants type used and why Cleaning and maintenance (what
is it cleaned with - how often)binding process (I have no idea what
a binding process is, why, what is used, etc) Fire classification
(I think they want this one so you know if you can use it in a kitchen
or fire hearth - not sure - there must be some sort of rating) Thermal
value Acoustical value I would very much appreciate it if you can
help.Thank you in advance Kind Regards, Robert Ross, July
22, Reply |
| R1:
Dear Robert Ross: And who said that miracles don't exist? Look, an
interior designer to be who wants to now something different than
color!! :)I do believe I can answer most of your questions. Gimme
a holler at: info@findstone.com and get in touch with me. There's
a little fee involved (as you will be told), but I'll be glad to help.
Ciao and good luck,Maurizio, Expert Panelist |
Q 5400: I
have a concrete front porch. There are no cracks, but it is pitted in some
areas. What tile would be appropriate for this space? Would 1/4" slate
tiles work? What prep is needed prior to laying tiles or slate? I live in
the north-east, so temperature change is a major factor. I have gotten conflicting
information from the so called experts in the area. Your advice would be
helpful. Thank you. Tracey, July
22, Reply
R1:
We usually recommend thicker tiles for the exterior. This will help to protect
the adhesive from condensation due to freeze/thaw cycles on sunny days.
(Got this info from an old Italian tile person) Does make sense though.
We have always suggested 1 -1.5 inches thick for exterior applications when
wet laid and we have not had problems. Our stone has been freeze thaw tested,
etc. Technical info on web site as well as installation info. Let me know
if I can be of further service. Debra
| Q 5404: I
am building my first and last home. The overall look that I want is
"rustic elegance." A full walk-out, poured concrete basement
will be the center of attention. I want as low-maintenance as possible,
and would sincerely appreciate your unbiased opinion. I like slate,
stone, porcelain tile and granite. It seems your answers to most questions
indicate that you prefer granite counter tops. How about the covering
for the concrete floor? Granite or marble is too elegant for me here,
so I would appreciate your suggestion for a care-free surface. Tim,
July 22, Reply |
| R1:
Dear Tim: Nothing is more care-free than porcelain tiles. What's also
nice about them that they come in any type of "natural stone"
looks. Ciao and good luck, Maurizio, Expert Panelist |
| R2:
Have you considered a high quality slate.? Geology is very important
when dealing with stone materials. North American slates are ranked
as the best in the world along with those from the UK.
Once
installated, only need to wash with water and vinegar. If you have
infloor heating the slate hold the heat really well. We usually
suggest a thicker slate tile for these floors. (Same price whether
tile is ½” or anything up to 1.5” thick. And we
custom cut the tiles to any size) Not affected by salt or sand or
chemicals. Let me know if I can be of further service.Debra
|
| R3:
You
need the real thing - which is slate flooring - the perfect rustic
low maintenance flooring Willard |
Q 5398: I
am looking at a roof in Enid, Oklahoma that is claimed to be damaged from
the build-up of about 3 inches of ice over it full area. Ice remained for
about 2 weeks before completely melting. Its a 12:12 slope. Reported to
be 100 year old slate from Illinois, installed about 5 to 10 years years
ago. Do you have any articles that dicuss the type of damage expected from
such an occurance, and any comments would be appreciated.Thanks, Jerry,
July
22, Reply
Q 5397: what
kind of sealant should I use for a slate floor? what kind of thinset? grout?
Kathy, July
22, Reply
Q 5396: I
am currently installing a new bathroom with slate floor and shower. How
should I initially treat the slate, and how should I best maintain it? James,
July
22, Reply
Q 5394: I
ran across your website regarding questions from readers. I am considering
of installing slate in my entry and into the family room. What is your opinion
on slate for such rooms. Also, advice on the specific type of slate on should
install for such high traffic area. Also, is there any special care, of
applying a shield or etc, that I need to be concern with? Any information
you provide will be most appreciative. Thanks, Mike, July
22, Reply
Q 5393: Could
you possibly tell me what to use on slate tile floors?I need something to
clean them .Thank you, Linda, July
22, Reply
Q 5391: Hey
There! We own a 70's house with a raised black slate hearth. We've actually
painted the white grout black...hope this is ok {it looks 100x's better}.The
slate now just needs to be perked up with a little polish or sealant. What
are your suggestions? signed, barb, July
22, Reply
Q 5389: I
broke a slate back to a sink, how can i repair it and hold it back together.
it was a clean brake from the top to the bottom.thanks nathan, July
22, Reply
Q 5388: I
need to know what I should do to get crayola crayon markings off of the
slate on my fireplace base. I've scrubbed with soap and water on a scrubber
sponge but it didn't work. I'm afraid to use a harsh chemical. Please help!
Thanks Andrea, July
22, Reply
Q 5387: I
have a problem with my bathroom floor.......it is slate. I actually have
slate in the kitchen and hall as well although it is fine. In the bathroom
it appears that water has got underneath the sealer (I'm guessing). It is
virtually white (my slate is very dark). It looks okay when you first mop
it but when it dries the white patches come back. It is very frustrating.
Can you sand slate? If you can, would the white patches just reappear with
time or do you think that the sealing wasn't done properly. Looking forward
to you advice. Sharyn, July
22, Reply
Q 5385: I
have multi-colored slate tiles to install in a new powder room. I want to
select the ones with the most colors on them. How do I tell what they will
look like when sealed? If I put water on them will that give me a resonable
facsimile of what it will look like sealed? Thanks H. July
22, Reply
R1:
Yes Debra
Q 5384: I
have found a fire place in my mother’s house which was built in the
early 1920’s. I have enclosed some photos as I am wondering if you
can identify what type of stone it is. It looks like marble however it could
be some sort of granite or slate or something else. I would like to restore
the fire place but without knowing what it is I cannot do anything. Can
you please please help me? Kind Regards Silvana, July
22, Reply
| Q 5383: I
have been contacted to be an import agent of slate and other stone
from India in to the U.S. I need information on everything about being
an Import /Export agent. I would appreciate it if you would email
me the information.Thank you, Nina, July
22, Reply |
| R1:
Dear Nina: If you want to sell slate, you will need to get three things
and three things only: 1. A manual on marketing. 2. A magic sentence.
3. A good pair of earplugs. Let me explain what I mean and how you
will be using the three means I listed for you.The first one is pretty
much self-explanatory: you've got to learn how to sell the stuff,
and the more you will sell of it the more money you will be making!
Of course you won't have much time left to learn about what the heck
you're selling, but it really doesn't matter. In fact, you do NOT
want to know! The second, which is the magic sentence that you MUST
learn by heart is: "All you have to do is seal it!" (Whatever
that means! but then again it's not necessary to understand that,
either.) In fact, here comes the last and most important "accessory"
to the whole business: the earplugs. When somebody will come back
complaining about the beautiful stuff you sold to them, and also report
that the sealer turned out to be only the trading of a problem for
another one, by wearing your all too precious earplugs, you will get
away from any possible trouble totally unscathed! It does work! Look
at this very site: How many complains come in about slate every single
day! I had to stop answering them because in most instances they were
without a solution, and the slate merchants who are involved in this
site complained very loudly about my "attitude", which was
hurting their business. Fine, I said, let them solve their own problems!
Did you ever see that happening? Not a chance! The earplugs are on
all the time! :) Ciao and good luck,Maurizio, Expert Panelist |
| R2:
If you want to sell slate, sell the geology of it. Slates coming
from certain geologies are very soft and need to be sealed just about
every month. Quality geology, as found in Canada, Vermont and UK are
a lot less work. If installed properly, they are worry free. Problem
is that low quality product is being dumped into our high end North
American markets and the consumer needs to be educated about the different
geologies and how that affects the performance of different slates.
Most of the problems from slate consumers is that they likely purchased
a very soft, low price imported slate. Debra |
Q 5366: I've
been seeing a lot of front stoop makeovers on television. Mostly, they cover
the concrete with pretty slate. I would love to do this, but we're in Minnesota,
and don't know if that is the best stone to use in this climate. I would
certainly appreciate your advice! July
14, Reply
| Q 5360: I
am considering several stones for my kitchen countertops: brazilian
green slate; a jura green German limestone; a black (with white veins)
Italian limestone; and a grey Irish limestone. I know granite is probably
the best choice for kitchen countertops, but I do not like granite.
Can you comment on the pros and cons of the brazilian slate, vs. the
limestones. I was also considering a Vermont slate, but it is significantly
more expensive than the brazilain slate. Is it worth the price difference?
Thanks in advance for your advice. Liz, July
14, Reply |
| R1:
Dear Liz: In my opinion, none of the materials
you listed is suitable for a busy kitchen countertop. Ciao and good
luck, Maurizio, Expert Panelist |
| R2:
We install 5 kitchen counter tops per week with brazilian Slate mostly
honed or natural black which is more a dark grey but some green as
well - it is very succesful and we cannot keep enough slab material
in stock at the moment. We do both slate and lime stone in flooring
and counter tops, Wilard |
Q 5347: I
have slate flooring on my floors in the foyer, hall, 1/2 bath and wet bar
room. I have no idea what kind it is, but the base color is dark grey with
some green in it. It's dull, and lifeless. Is there any sealer that will
make it shine like glass? Would any of the interior concrete sealers that
are buff-ed to a high gloss work? Not only is this same slate on the floors
that run throughout this house but the remodel contractor that I was told
did the work 10 years ago put it on the wet bar counter top and back splash.
When its wet it's it looks great, but dries dull. Help me. All the natural
stone stores I've been to here in Cleveland Ohio have told be there is nothing
that can be done to make it shine. The cost of replacing it is more than
my husband is willing to spend. Thanks in advance - Roxanne, July
02, Reply
R1:
A good acrylic floor finish will do the job - which can be purchased from
any good janitorial place , Willard
| Q 5341: We are building
a "hearth" out of natural slate to place our free standing
propane stove on. How do I bring out and maintain the natural wet
look? Does the grout have to cure for any period of time before we
can seal it? Darline, July
02, Reply
|
| R1:
Dear Darline: Consider the application of a good-quality stone color
enhancer. Ciao and good luck, Maurizio, Expert Panelist |
| Q 5335:
I am putting in a granite or slate kitchen
counter top and granite bathroom tops in my new condo. Your site was
very informative. I am also beginning to work with local contractors
in their business to assist with material acquisition. Alice, July
02, Reply |
| R1:
Dear Alice: And the question is … Ciao and good luck, Maurizio. |
Q 5331: I
have an area that will not grow grass well. It is an area shaped like a
lope-sided tear drop. I have been thinking of putting down some stone. Slate
has come to mind. However I am not interested in putting any mortar between
the stones (whatever kind) I use. My question then is how to do this so
that the stone will remain still and shift at a very minimum. With other
stones there are instructions on how to handle the ground (till, put in
sand, etc., etc.). Do I have an option here with slate? Please advise,
July
02, Reply
| Q 5330: We
have a black slate fireplace mantel that looks more gray than black.
Can we use a sealer to darken the color? If so, what sealer do you
recommend? Thanks! Cherie, July
02, Reply |
| R1:
Dear Cherie: A good quality stone-color enhancer should do the trick
for you. Ciao and good luck, Maurizio, Expert Panelist |
Q 5328: I
am planning to have a slate patio installed. Our water is extremely hard
with lots of calcium + other minerals. The water will surely leave unsightly
deposits and staines within a few weeks. Is there a sealer that can prevent
this? I read about Cabot offering a waterproofing sealer with Teflon. Does
this make any sense? Richard, July
02, Reply
Q 5325: I
am attempting to lay 12x12 black slate tile floor in my kitchen and am finding
inconsistencies in advice from many experts...i am hoping you may assist
me....
1. i currently have linoleum that is well adhered and had planned on laying
1/4 inch concrete board without removing the lino...is this ok?
2. i am certain that i want a satin finish, but there seems to be a discrepancy
at what point to seal the slate...should i seal each piece individually
before installation, seal after installation but before grouting, or after
grouting???
3. what type of sealer would you recommend for a high traffic and possible
spillage area??? shane, July
02, Reply
Q 5324: I
recently installed 4x4 slate on a Hardibacker wall (with one inch air gap)
behind a pot belly wood stove. My question is about gloss sealers. Is there
a special product which can take the intense heat in a stove area? Is lacquer
base better than water base? Tomy, July
02, Reply
| Q 5314:
I just had my bathroom remodeled with
a natural "rainforest" slate (greenish with tan and brown
fossil patterns, probably from India) on the floor, countertop and
tub surround and backsplash. I want it to look the way it looks when
I sponge water on it, but not shiny. I've been told to use "color
enhancer" but need to know which product is best. Should it be
"surface" or "penetrating", acrylic or urothane,
does it need to be a sealer as well, and is there a difference between
the high-priced brands and those that are more affordable? Deanna,
July
01, Reply
|
| R1:
Dear Deanna: A color enhancer is a below surface (penetrating, that
is) product; therefore it will darken the stone without altering the
original surface finish. You can get my maintenance guidelines for
residential stone installations by giving me a holler at: info@findstone.com.
They do carry a small price tag, but are worth every single penny
and then some! It’s a one-of-a-kind document that you won’t
find anywhere else, I promise! What’s more, I will also tell
you a way to get your money back!Ciao and good luck, Maurizio, Expert
Panelist |
| Q 5309: My
home is 60 plus years old. The fireplace hearth is made out of slate
(I think). I have tried many different ways (wax, marble polish, etc.)
to bring out some luster but I am getting no way. I don't want it
shiny, I just don't want it as dull as it is. Any ideas. Thanks, Kimberly,
July
01, Reply |
| R1:
Dear Kimberly: Sure, I’ve got plenty of ideas! but the slate
people don’t like them very much for some reason. See my answer
to the post 5308 below. Ciao and good luck, Maurizio |
| Q 5307: I
picked up a sample of 12 X 12 slate at Lowe's and I am considering
it for a kitchen, laundry room and bathrooms. What are the advantages
and disadvantages of slate? Is slate hard on the feet? I have difficulty
telling which side is up/down. Also it appears that there are layers
of slates in this material when viewed from the edges. Any advice
you can give would be helpful. I plan to install myself after much
study. I have installed tile but never slate. Sincerely, Fred ,
July
01, Reply
|
| R1: Dear
Fred: Let me start from the pros of slate flooring in a kitchen, laundry
room and bathroom … hmmm … I must have a temporary loss
of memory, because I can’t remember any. Ok, let’s get
to the cons; I remember those! … Oh, I’m sorry, I can’t
say them: the slate people would get upset, and we don’t want
that to happen, do we?! :-) Ciao and good luck, Maurizio, Expert Panelist |
Q 5303: I
have a vermont slate foyer and the grout between the slates I would like
to remove. I have already tried removing some of it with carbide bits attached
to dremel tools and hand grout removal tools, and the process is very slow
and tedious. The grout has a consistency like mortar, is that normal?If
you know of a better and faster method to remove this grout I would appreciate
knowing Also, how deep do I have to remove the grout to get a good bond
with new grout? Thanks, Dennis, July
01, Reply
Q 5302: We are looking
to install slate flooring . What bare the best tips for this procedure?
The surface to be tiled is smooth concrete, with no cracks. What is
the best
adhesive to use? Should we seal the tiles before doing the grouting
na dthen again
afterwards? Jonathan, July
01, Reply
|
| R1:
Dear Jonathan: You don’t want to know what I think about slate
floors; therefore I won’t make any comment. About your questions,
I reckon that them slate people who don’t like me too much should
try to find some time out of their busy selling schedules to answer
them. It never happened before, but, like the saying goes, there’s
always a first time for everything! Ciao and good luck, Maurizio,
Expert Panelist |
Q 5296: I
would like to seal floor of bathroom and shower, made of black slate. I
would like a semigloss appearance, Sandra, July
01, Reply
Q 5295: Split
some red candle wax on my unsealed slate fireplace hearth. Having read through
your comments to others, am I correct to conclude nailpolish remover or
acetone may get the wax and stain out of the light grey slate. A poor attempt
with scraping, then scouring it out only seemed to make the wax go deeper
into the slate....haste makes waste. What should I do? betsy, July
01, Reply
Q 5294: Can
you use Mastic to adhere slate to wall? I'm planning to cut slate into 4
X 12 rectangles and mounting on wall to use as "baseboard". Thanks,
Mark, July 01,
Reply
Q 5293: How do I clean crayon scribbling off
of a slate fireplace ? Anthony, July
01, Reply
Q 5290: Hello,
I have access to beautiful slightly used slate roof tiles. They are in various
shades of gray. I was thinking about using them as my counter top material
or possibly as floor tiles. Is this being done? What are some of the things
I will need to be concerned about. We are a organic household and enjoy
the possibility of using this renewable source. Thank you for any thoughtful
feed back, Candus, July
01, Reply
Q 5287: I
have a 90+yr old house with a black slate sink. The sink is structurally
sound but somewhat greying... I have noticed some people have some very
black slate sinks. Is there a simple way to clean up or polish the sink,
Dan, July 01,
Reply
Q 5135: My
husband and I are building a home and I have been trying to decide
on a material for the kitchen countertop. At this point, I think I
want to go with slate tile but I'm finding a wildly varying price
range. There is one place online that sells "brazilian"
slate in varying sizes for about $2.50 per sq ft.
1. Is all brazilian tile the same hardness and porosity?
2. If it is an inferior tile, can the porosity problem be fixed with
a good sealant?
3. What is considered a minimum thickness for a kitchen tile?
Sorry for all the questions, but this is a big step for us and I want
to be sure. A big slab of stone is way out of our budget, but I am
also leery of a price that seems to good to be true. Sincerely, Judy,
June 3, Reply |
| R1:
Judy: Let me explain you something: I'm a maintenance
man, and I HAD to write postings against slate (especially in a kitchen!)
on the account of all the complaints and gripes that end-users have
with such a material. However, the slate merchants who use this wonderful
site for their trade complained quite loudly with its management because
my comments were hurting their business. I believe that what was hurting
their business were the complaints themselves, not my comments, but
I decided not to follow up any longer slate posts. At the same time
I encouraged those merchants to take care of their own customers.
I think it's only fair. The complaints kept coming in like clockwork,
but never received one single follow up. They were too busy selling
it, I reckon. I promised then that I wouldn't make any comments about
slate anymore and I'm going to keep that promise, but I sincerely
hope - also considering that you don't sound extremely wealthy - that
you can draw your own conclusions. Ciao and good luck, Maurizio, Expert
Panelist |
| Q 5154: Planning to
use slate on the floor of my cabana, should I seal it and if so will
it be slippery? Margie, June 3, Reply
|
| R1:
Hi Margie, Depends on the sealer-seal on tile and try it on site.
If there is going to be a high level of moisture or water I would
seal it with an impregnator rather than topical sealer. Topical sealers
can give you a real headache in the future "Stone" |
| |
| Q 5162: I just purchased
40 - 12"x12" inch sheets of 2"x2" slate to use
for a kitchen backsplash. The Chinese slate is all covered with mud
which hides the true color. I have spent over 1 hour trying to clean
1 sheet and am making little progress. I have used a wet sponge and
scrub brush which is removing it slowly. I plan to use and enhancer
and selant before installing. Any suggestions on removing the mud
? Thanks, Stern, June 11, Reply |
| R1:
Dear Stern:You do NOT want to know what I think about your
problem. I sure hope that the slate merchants will chime in! (Don't
hold your breath, though…)Ciao and good luck, Maurizio, Expert
Panelist |
| |
| Q 5186: I recently purchased
and installed a multi-classic slate. I sealed the slate with a penetrating
sealer prior to grouting the floor. I am unable to restore the original
appearance of the tile prior to grouting. I have tried a stone cleaner
and also applied another coat of the penetrating sealer and am unable
to remove the haze from the tile. I read a few previous questions/answers
and I would like to verify with you what I have read: 1. a 50/50 soluton
of muratic acid and water will remove the haze and NOT harm the tile?
2. a surface sealer will give the tile a "wet look" without
a glossy look - you mentioned a product called Miton 42 that would
work best - how/where can I purchase this product? Regards, Shawn,
June 16, Reply
|
| R1:
Dear Shawn: Where are the slate people when you
need them? Sorry, they are too busy selling the stuff! Ciao and good
luck, Maurizio, Expert Panelist |
| |
| Q 5193: We
just put a natural black slate on our kitchen floor and i feel as
though it is not clean i like the natural look but for my sanity i
think we'll have to put something on it lots of kids and pets running
around what should i do? thank you kim, June 16, Reply |
| R1:
Probably a good top finish will help a lot. Try one tile and use it
for a week, see how it performs. Stone |
| |
| Q 5201: Just installed
a new slate floor outdoors around our home pool and deck in South
Florida--about half will be under roof. It is Indian slate. The colors
run from blue-black to yellow mud. Some is very flaky. We like the
way all that looks and picked the slate partly because it seems to
be relatively non-slip. From reading the questions about slate, I
wonder if there is a problem with it bleaching in the sun or deteriorating
in other ways. Should we seal it? With what? We are satisfied with
a natural dull look, but some sheen would be OK if it did not make
it slippery. I have talked to one company that is recommending a two-part
finish that they make. They say they will add non-slip and it will
last 10 years. Two coats will cost about half the price of the slate,
which seems high. but my big concern is that it will look like linoleum.
If I wanted that, I would not have laid slate. Any suggestions will
be welcome. John, June 16, Reply |
| R1:
Dear John: Just sit tight and some slate people will chime in with
all the answers! … I hope … You see the reason why you always
read questions about slate is because the slate people, so far, never
bother answering them. but … you don't want to give up your hopes!
:-) Ciao and good luck, Maurizio, Expert Panelist |
| |
| Q 5216: I
have just had slate floors installed in a bathroom and sunroom in
my house. The advice on sealing and how to seal is very spotty and
conflicting. My contractor told me to wait several days to let the
stone cure and then to sponge on a thin coat of sealer. The product
instructions say I should let the floor cure for thirty days, wash
it with acid wash and then apply sealer with a lambswool applicator.
All of the websites I have read say that I should not use any kind
of acid on stone floors. I am totally confused and I wanted to get
it done today before company arrives tomorrow for the holiday weekend.
This brings me to my last question. How long does the sealer need
to dry? My contractor said for about 8 hours. No one else gives specific
information. Just instructions to wait until the sealer is dry. -Dayna,
June 17, Reply
|
| R1:
Dear Dayna: Just sit tight and some slate people will chime in with
all the answers! … I hope … You see, the reason why you
have all these conflicting opinions is because the slate people are
too busy selling the stuff to bother assisting their own customers.
but … you don't want to give up your hopes! :-) Ciao and good
luck, Maurizio, Expert Panelist |
| |
| Q 5241: I just bought
some african multicolor autumn slate to use for my kitchen counters
but I was trying to clean it before installing it and all the orange
and red color keeps coming off-it seems no matter how many times I
brush it (I am using a firm brush with water and laundry detergent)
I continue getting a residue and the bright colors are becoming very
dull and dark-is this normal or did i get a bad batch of slate-please
help! thank you Pat, June 20, Reply |
| R1:
Yes it is normal. Ciao Stone |
| R2:
You need to apply a sealer to stop the color
from coming off - the color will be enhanced and your tile protected
with a gfood acrylic sealer.Willard |
| Q 5256: I'm
building a patio deck on the back end of my house In Portland or of
course it rains alot here. I'd like to accent the steps with and outdoor
tile like Slate or Granite. How do I prepare the step surface I've
done alot of ceramic tile and marble flooring inside but this is the
first time for outside. Can I use a plywood base if si do I need the
hard backer board and do I use a sanded grout to fill the spacing
or is there something else I can use. Thanks, Don, June
20, Reply |
| R1:
Hi Don, I prefer using cement boards followed with a membrane
over it. Im not familiar here with the term hard backer board. I would
also use epoxy joints to complete work. Follow the directions from
your local glue supplier, thats the best way to have a good guarantee.
Stone |
| Q 5260: I
have multi-colored slate tiles to install in a new powder room. I
want to select the ones with the most colors on them. How do I tell
what they will look like when sealed? If I put water on them will
that give me a resonable facsimile of what it will look like sealed?
Thanks H, June 23, Reply |
| R1:
Hi H, yes it will bUT, you should be presealing
them, it makes it much easier to clean and you can actually see the
colors before you lay them down. Choose an area larger than the actual
floor to be done (ex. garage) lay them down in the same configuration
as the washroom and apply a coat of appropriate sealer. As they are
wet you will see all the colors vividly. All you have to do is move
them around like a puzzle in the layout of choice. Turn them and mark
them 1,2,3 , etc., (on the underside) That's it. Your installer can
no longer make a mistake and you have the floor looking the way you
like it. Ciao Stone |
| |
| Q 5261: I
was considering a slate countertop. Is this a good material to use
and how does it compare to granite, soapstone or corian in cost? Thank
you. Power, June 23, Reply |
| R1:
Dear Power: It does NOT compare with any of the
materials you listed. And you do NOT want to know what I think about
slate kitchen countertops! (Actually, I'm sure you would, but the
slate people would get pretty upset, and we don't want to do that,
do we?!) Ciao and good luck, Maurizio, Expert Panelist |
| Q 5062: I am in the
process of laying a rough JACK bLACK slate floor in India, and find
that the material has arrived with scratches from the quarry - as
a result of the transport, and abrasion of one tile against the other.
Can these scratches be removed - would a coating on the stone help
remove these scratches... they are not very deep but do mar the visual
quality of the surface. I do not mind a darkening of the slate with
a coating. Could you recommend an appropriate sealant. thanks Anjani
, May 29, Reply |
| R1:
Dear Anjani: I have not the faintest idea! (Or
maybe I do …) At any rate, slate manufacturers do read these
postings all the time. (In fact they got very upset when I was making
not so flattering comments about slate in general!) Unfortunately,
they are so busy selling their stuff that they have no time to help
any of their customers out! but I am sure that in your case they will
make an exception and solve your problem in a jffy! Maurizio, Expert
Panelist |
| Q 5031: We
have a builders grade slate fireplace surround and hearth in black.
it always looks chalky. could you recommend a cleaning method and
solution to seal the slate to bring out a richer color. John, May
02, Reply |
| R1:
Dear John:Yes, you could apply a good-quality stone color enhancer.
If you want to know more, gimme a holler. Maurizio |
| Q 5024: We are planning
to move an older billiard table from one home to another home, a distance
of about 10 miles. We plan to rent a 14-foot U-Haul truck. The slate,
which is 3/4 to an inch thick, is ONE PIECE of approximately 4 feet
wide by 8 feet long (we are not sure but guess that it weighs about
800 pounds). What are the recommended ways to truck this piece of
slate without cracking it or damaging it? We have asked numerous movers
and billiard table personnel this question and have received a lot
of conflicting answers, including 'lay if flat on the truck bed',
'lay it flat on pallets', 'lay it flat on blankets', 'do not lay if
flat', 'use an A-Frame', 'truck it on edge'. etc. So we think we need
a conclusive answer from any expert. Zoppettie, May 02, Reply
|
| R1:
Zoppettie, The A-frame is your best bet for shipping
the stone without damage. I try to ship anything under 3 inches thick
upright. Thin stone should be moved around much the same as a sheet
of glass. Good luck, JVC, Expert Panelist |
| Q 5079: I work in a
wholesale brick & tile company in Nebraska. We sell some tumbled
marble, travertine, slate, granite, and limestone. Can you tell me
the differences between the tumbled marble, travertine and limestone.
Also, honed, filled and polished marble, etc. This is very confusing
to me when trying to explain to a customer. Also, I know it depends
on where it comes from. I am just looking for a general description
of how it is formed from the earth and by man when sold. Thank you
for any help you can offer. Julie, May
29, Reply |
| R1:
See the Library of Articles in this site itself |
| Q 5450: We have a small
black slate floor in the foyer of our home. We have light white scratches
in the floor from the kids playing with their toys. Should I use baby
oil to take away the scratches or should baby oil not be used for
floor? Chris |
| Q 5449: Will a sealant
help prohibit iron from weeping through the surface of green slate?
Jim, |
| Q 4661:I am buying a
new home, actually an old home. Gutting the kitchen. I’ve always
loved carrera marble but know that its awful for kitchen counters
due to stains etc. So I’ve moved off that and am now very fond
of French blue limestone...however you state that limestone is equally
as awful for countertops...so here’s my dilemma. I want real
stone—not Caesarstone or Silestone—and I absolutely disliked
granite. So what are my options? Travertine? Slate? Soapstone? Any
thoughts/advice would be greatly appreciated. Andrea, april 9, Reply |
| R1:
We instal 5 kitchen per week of brazilian slate tops - it is very
good product for kitchens - bathrooms etc.Willard |
| Q 4631: We just bought
and installed a cast iron fireplace with a black slate hearth. It
came with a smooth flat finish, all matt black, but no polish. While
doing the decorating, some patches of stong wallpaper paste got onto
the hearth, and some small spots of danish oil which had been used
to repolish a coffee table.I can't seem to shift these substances,
no matter what i try. I triepntd turps substitute (white spirit?),
then a soft finish remover which is similar to white spirit, then
what I believed to be an acetone liquid sold for removing sticky gluey
things. Nothing moved the paste or spot of oil.I don't know what to
do next. I'd be very grateful for your help and advice. Is it possible
to use harsher things, or to use wire wool or a scouring pad for instance?
I do not want to damage the hearth stone.We have another similar black
slate hearth, and that one came polished. Can you give me any advice
on polishing the unfinished one.Thanks in advance. Tricia, april 9,
Reply |
| Q 4610: We just moved
into a house 2 months ago with a screened in porch. It looks like
it has a slate floor. However, it looks like the "slate",
which is wet, is turning to mud! HELP. What is this and how do we
care for it? Fran, March 29, Reply |
| Q 4600: I am installing
multi color slate floors in my kitchen and family room. Should I seal
with and enhancer or sealer or both? Does this seal the grout also,
or do I have to use a different product? Please advise, March 29,
Reply |
| Q 4524: We are purchasing
a home with a fireplace. The previous owners painted over the slate
type stones surrounding the fireplace with latex paint and possibly
a primer. We want to remove the paint and bring the stone back to
it's original state. Any ideas/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks Gayle, March 27, Reply |
| Q 4523: I am about to
renovate the kitchen of my 1915 Victorian. I am trying to keep the
appearance appropriate to the age of the house. Therefore polished
granite is not the look I am striving for. I am interested in a countertop
that provides a dark, dull, solid appearance, without the speckles
typical of granite. I am interested in Pietra Cardoso, soapstone,
slate, black-honed granite and any other product that fits this description.
I would like to know how each of these stones reacts to spills, such
as wines and oils and scratches. I am also interested in the maintenance
requirements of each. I don't mind having to do monthly treatment,
but don't want to have to do anything other than a wipe down each
day. I also don't mind a stone that will take on a worn look with
age but I want to avoid obvious staining. Also, is there a way to
prep a stone when it is installed in order to prevent scratches and
permanent staining? Jocelyn, March 26, Reply |
| R1:
We sell 5 kitchen a week in slate counter tops in both honed surface
and natural cleft - brazilian slate in almost impregnablke to spills
once treated with mineral oil a monthly or bi-weekly treament - should
a serious stain occur it is simply remover with 1200 grid emery paper
- I have it in my house and would have nothing else - both from a
maintenance point of view and mostly from an eye pleasing perspective.Willard
|
| Q 4522: A small piece
of slate (about six inches long, three inches wide) chipped off a
slate porch. Can I glue it back on with epoxy or some other glue?
Thanks. Eric, March 26, Reply |
| Q 4521: I would like
to know more about the charactoristics of natural stones. Specifically
granite, limestone, sandstone, marble, slate and flint. Thank you,
Margaret, March 26, Reply |
| Q 4520: I am a contractor.
I get many calls for natural stones applications and installation
for marble, granite slabs and tiles, tumbled stones and slate. I would
like info on installation tips and techniques. Thank you, Dustin,
March 26, Reply |
| Q 4501: My daughter
wants to put "Jet Mist" honed granite on her countertop
- can you guide me re maintenance and if this is a good choice - She
wanted a slate-look. She has a large family (5 children) and would
appreciate any advice you may give. Thanks. Alicia, Feb
14, Reply |
| Q 4495: I recently bought
tiles labelled "slate" at a building superstore to put on
the floor of a new mudroom. They were inexpensive and rough looking,
which seemed reasonable for an entry that sees hard use. I was not
looking for a high end kind of surface. The sample tiles looked beautiful,
with mottled soft gray and rusty brown surface. They were labelled
made in China. THe installer has cemented them down, and I was surprised
to see that the colouring on most of the pieces were much darker gray
and very deep rust. Jan 9, Reply |
| Q 4491: Does
anyone know how i can use the thick slurry in the quarries at Portland
here in England to fire it ? Apparantly it just needs some chemicals
added, any clues ? Greetings Sharon, Jan 9, Reply |
| Q
4419: I do not
now who this MAURIZIO guy is that is giving all this advice but he
should get alittle more info on stuff he speaks about. All slate is
not the same we quarry vermont slate and all the stuff he speaks about
slate does not include Vermont slate It works great in Kitchens, bathrooms,
and it can br sealed with natural oils corn vere, ect. and when all
these people are ttalking about discoloration on their floors thats
from the wrong type of cleaners being used, the brown discoloration
can be removed, After reading some of his stuff If I was lookingto
purchase slate he sure would turn me off. So why not tell that all
slates are not the same. STEPHEN, Jan5 Reply |
| |
| Q
4109: I have been
having a very difficult time cleaning my slates floors. Everyone tells
me to do a different thing to do. What should I do? I have black slate
in my shower and on the floors. In the past I used Miracle sealer
and Miracle enhancer. My floors and shower have white marks coming
out. It looks very dirty. Please help! Dana, Nov2. Reply |
| R1: Dear
Dana: For your mental well being, rip it out and start all over with
a more proper stone. Maurizio |
| R2: Dana,
Please do not rip it out. It is Perfect. You just have calcium deposits.
LimeAway and elbow grease will take it off. Once you have that done
then re-seal the shower with an acrylic solvent based sealer. This
will protect the surface of the stone. Do this Once a year and you
should have No troubles. best Regards, Stephen, Slate Expert - Canada |
| Q
4121: I have scratched
some slate tile on my floor with a piece of machinery and do not know
how to treat this scratch. It is fairly deep, about 1/8", and
fairly long and wide. I would rather not replace the tile, so do you
have any suggestions about repairing this scratch? I saw your article
about contacting you concerning the correct tools to perform this
operation. I hope you can elaborate, bob, Nov2. Reply
|
| R1:
Dear bob: Nobody can
remove a scratch. It would be like trying to remove a hole out of
doughnut! What you should do is to eat the doughnut and the hole is
gone! Same thing with your slate: you'd have to grind your tile along
the scratch down to the depth of it, and the scratch is gone. The
only unsurmontable problem is that you can't grind natural-cleft finished
stone. This is by far the major draw-back with natural-cleft slate
used as a flooring material: it can't be refinished. Forget it, replace
the tile. Ciao and good luck, Maurizio, Expert Panelist |
| R2:
bob, just wet the surface and stand back and
see if it kind of disappears. If it does just dab a bit of acrylic
sealer on it. If it doesn't work then try to match a grout color to
the slate and fill the trench in with some grout. Then seal the grout.
best Regards, Stephen, Slate Expert, Canada. |
| Q
4200: I'm planning
on installing clefted slate on a bathroom floor. Is it ok to use Aldon's
Grout Easy to prevent grout build up on the slate? Also should I use
a sealer? Water based or solvent? Lyssa, Nov15.
Reply |
| R1:
Lyssa, I do not know anything about Aldons Grout
Easy. The best looking Slate floor that I have seen is a floor that
was installed and grouted then 10 days later we sealed it with an
acrylic solvent based sealer. A clean bucket of water and good sponges
will do the job. Do not waste your money on high priced products.
best Regards, Stephen, Slate Expert, Canada |
| Q
4112: Our home
was built in 1980 and has a slate foyer. Not to our surprise, the
underlayment used was not sufficient and the floor is now quite loose.
What do we need to do to repair the loose tiles and what type of grout
and sealant do you advise we use to protect the flooring? Also, how
long does it take for the repairs take to hold? Liz, Nov2. Reply |
| R1:
Liz, Try to remove the
tiles and not break them. Then try to remove the thinset underneath.
Then just re-install the tiles and grout them and re-seal the surface
with an acrylic solvent based sealer. best Regards, Stephen, Slate
Expert, Canada. |
Q
4125: We built
a new home with slate surrounding the fireplace and on the hearth.
I believe it is an Indian slate ("beach sand" color), which
has not been honed. The color is very light and we want to darken
it quite a bit to bring out the natural colors and depth. I tested
two products by Aqua Mix on some leftover pieces -- "Stone Enhancer"
(water based formula) and "Low Sheen Sealer". They both
barely hardly darkened the slate at all. We want it much richer and
darker, with minimal sheen. What product should we use?
No products have been applied the the slate so far. Thanks. brenda
brenda, Nov5. Reply |
| R1:
Dear brenda: None. Get
a darker slate. Maurizio |
| R2: brenda,
Maurizizo do not know what he is talking about. He is prone to Marble
and not slate. It is like asking a Santa Claus how he delivers his
Easter Eggs. O.K. beach Sand is a color that we sell in North America.
There is a Product that makes it wet looking called Miton 42. Try
to wet it and see if you like the darkness. Look up Miton 42 on the
Internet and you should find us. We sell it. It will do exactly do
what you want. best Regards, Stephen, Slate Expert, Canada |
| Q
4140:
My friend has black slate in her entryway.
She was thinking of covering it with another flooring product. I was
wondering if she can lighten or change the color by using some sort
of acidic liquid. The slate is about 30 years old, and has not been
sealed in probably 30 years, so it is quite pourous. It appears to
be sawn slate, it is very flat, symmetrical squares, Nancy, Nov6.
Reply |
| R1: Dear
Nancy: No, black slate is not porous at all. That's why they use it
as roofing material. Tell your friend to go with her original idea
to have a new floor installed (not slate, I hope!). Maurizio |
| R2: Nancy,
re-install a new slate floor. You will love the feel of the imported
slates. The material that you have is from Quebec. but no you will
not change the color by adding acid or other topical substances. best
Regards, Stephen, Slate Expert, Canada |
| Q
4182: What's your
opinion about slate as a countertop material. Does it need to be sealed?
Are the minor scratches a problem. bottom line: Is it tought enought
for a high traffic kitchen with 3 kids and lots of cooking? Lisa.J,
Nov14.
Reply |
| R1: Dear
Lisa; No, it does not need to be sealed. It needs to be totally forgotten
about, and big time, too!! You do NOT want any slate it in your kitchen!
Maurizio |
| R2: Lisa,
We are installing about 10 Kitchens a day with brazillian slate for
countertops. We seal ours with Mineral oil once or twice a month.
It will handle the kids. Mineral oil takes the scratches and makes
them disappear. Slate is Great. best Regards, Stephen, Slate Expert,
Canada |
| Q
4224: I am at the
grouting stage, and I was told by the slate company that the impregnator
sealant will seal that grout as well as the slate. What I am wondering
is, do I still have to wet mop the grout 2x a day for three days before
I seal the floor or can I seal 24 hours after grouting and leave it
at that. (I already have one layer of impregnator on.) Thanks. Shari,
Nov20.
Reply |
| R1:
Dear Shari: Well, for starters, your fisrt layer
of impregnator shoud be IN, not ON. Second you want to leave the grout
cure for a few days before you seal it. Maurizio |
| R2:
Shari, Maurizio finally
has something good to say, for once. You should of let the grout cure
for at least 7-10 days. but you do not need to mop the floor that
much. best Regards, Stephen, Slate Expert Canada |
| Q
4229: I have a
vermont slate entry foyer. It is down with mastic on the 3/4"
decking of the house can I ruff the surface and install tile over
it? Nov21.
Reply |
| R1:
You can and we have
do it but I will not recommend it. It do not take long to rip out
the old slate and put in new slate. best Regards, Stephen, Slate Expert,
Canada |
| Q
4234: I am about
to lay a brasil Verde slate floor with tiles of 30x30cm to be finished
with a matt sealant. Can you suggest a colour for the grouting? Also
what distance would you recommend between the tiles? Thanks Amanda,
Nov21.
Reply |
| R1:
Amanda, You can use a
green colored grout but I would use just Natural Grey grout. and the
grout lines be about 1/4" wide. best Regards, Stephen, Slate
Expert, Canada |
| Q
4235: My spouse
and I just installed an African Slate flooring, it's beautiful, but
do we need to do anything else? (ie seal it?). | |
