Cleaning Unsealed Slate Tile Floors

While slate floors are attractive they benefit from regular upkeep.

Cleaning unsealed slate tile floors.

Since unsealed slate tile can chip or stain easily it s important that you clean it using proper care and cleaning products. Unsealed slate tile flooring can be a beautiful floor choice but it also can become damaged and show wear and tear. You can use a cleaning product specifically made to wash natural stone or any other cleaning solution that does not contain lemon or vinegar preferably one that is ph neutral. Ideally you should dust mop your slate floor every day and damp mop it once a week.

These ingredients can cause etching. Teak oil is reasonably priced and available at most large. Mop your slate tile floor with a gentle cleanser. Unsealed floors can become marked and scratched from loose grit or from foot traffic.

Have you tried a steam mop on your slate floors. These small particles can act like grits of sandpaper wearing down the protective sealer and making tiny scratches in the tiles every time the floor is walked on. By deep cleaning every two or three months you can keep your slate floors looking new. Wash the slate tiles as needed with either a stone cleaner or a mild detergent with a neutral ph.

Cleaning restoring 18 year old unsealed slate floor hi when my house was built the builder used unsealed large slate tile in the foyer. It s also very soft and can easily be chipped and eroded by acids and hard scrub brushes. When uneven pressure is applied to slate it can still split or fracture into unintended fragments or small sheets. Though unsealed tile floors can be cleaned with most cleaning solutions there are some precautions to take to avoid damaging the tiles or the grout between them.

Step 1 put your chosen cleaning solution into a spray bottle. Rinse with clean water and either let it air dry or use a soft cloth. Be sure to follow any instructions on how or where to use the product. You can clean slate floors regularly with a dust mop a broom and a damp mop.

By attacking stains immediately and cleaning with soft mops you can keep your slate floor vibrant for longer. Do not use cleaners that contain lemon or vinegar. Follow the steps above for regular cleaning but once the surface is dry apply a thin layer of teak oil to the slate with a soft cloth. Slate is porous and absorbs stains.

Slate is a durable stone but it can be porous depending on the quality. Stay clear of acidic cleaners and consider sealing your floors for extra protection and peace of mind.