Slate is created from low-grade metamorphic mudrock, undergoing substantial heat and pressure. The stone contains a mix of minerals, primarily chlorite, quartz, and illite, alongside additional minerals like iron oxides and iron sulfides. This unique composition added more value to its rough texture.
Slate floorings have emerged as a preferred alternative for numerous households. Their robustness and functionality are matched by their prospect to last for extended periods if it was being cared for properly. Slate also lends an exquisite, natural stone aesthetic. With its innate variety, each tile boasts a remarkable appearance, creating an eye-catching product. This is why slate stands out as one of the most sought-after varieties of natural stone.
Benefits of Slate
Slate crafted from natural stone, it stands out for its exceptional durability compared to other flooring alternatives like vinyl. Although it's on the pricier side, its longevity can justify the investment. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy by installing slate flooring!
Durability
Slate is a robust natural stone, that excels in enduring heavy foot traffic. It thrives in high-activity areas such as hallways, kitchens, and entryways - displaying resilience against chipping, cracking, and breaking.
Longevity
When properly cared for, slate flooring can span for decades. Its durability will lessen the possibility of replacement needs, lowering maintenance and replacement costs.
Low Maintenance
Slate flooring proves relatively simple to clean and maintain. Regular sweeping and mopping are enough for maintenance.
Watertight
Another remarkable advantage of slate tiles is their water impermeability, which can help prevent rot, and the growth of destructive fungi, mold, and insects.
Eco-friendly
Slate comprises 100% natural stone sourced directly from the Earth. Unlike synthetic flooring materials, its production involves minimal processing, rendering it an environmentally conscious choice. It's also free from any chemicals and hazardous substances.
Increase in Property Value
Slate's durability and upscale appearance enhance property value. Its timeless allure can attract potential buyers or renters seeking both aesthetic and lasting quality.
Though slate flooring can give lots of benefits, it's important to keep in mind that these can only be manifest with proper installation, sealing, and maintenance. Through meticulous care, slate can become a captivating addition to homes and commercial spaces alike.
How to Clean Slate Surfaces?
Slate offers timeless beauty and durability, but to maintain its lustrous appearance, a proper cleaning routine is essential. By establishing a regular cleaning routine, you can prevent dirt and debris from causing scratches and dulling the surface. Here are the step-by-step instructions to ensure your slate floors remain pristine.
Step One: Sweeping or Vacuuming the Floor
Begin the cleaning process and get rid of the dust, dirt, and debris before you start mopping. This will effectively avoid scratches caused by larger soil particles or small rocks, and help make cleaning the slate much easier.
Eliminate dust and debris effectively by either sweeping with a soft-bristle broom or a vacuum cleaner. This step aims to clean the surface by extracting loose dirt and fine particles. When opting for vacuuming, ensure the vacuum attachment is equipped with a soft brush and move the vacuum head slowly over joints and grout lines; areas where debris commonly accumulates.
Step Two: Formulating the Floor Cleaner
While commercial slate cleaners are readily available for purchase, crafting an effective DIY cleaning solution tailored to the surface is also a possible alternative. To create your cleaning solution, you can mix castile soap, baking soda, and water to create a diluted solution.
Step Three: Damp Mopping the Floor
Consider the convenience of a spin mop, as it facilitates efficient water wringing. Prevent saturating the slate flooring with a dripping mop, as this could lead to water stains if the slate seal is compromised. With a properly wrung mop, glide it horizontally across the slate tiles.
Periodically, indulge in steam cleaning every 3-6 months for a deeper cleanse. This not only tackles persistent stains and revitalizes the appearance but also sterilizes the surface by eliminating bacteria.
Step Four: Drying the Floor
As mentioned earlier, vigilance against water or moisture infiltration is a must when the slate floor sealant is vulnerable. This preventive measure guards against water stains and damage to the tiles. Additionally, swift drying is also critical to prevent water streaks. Utilize a clean and dry towel to promptly wipe the tiles after mopping.
With these steps completed, your slate floor will be immaculately cleaned, radiating a renewed allure!
How to Deal with Spills and Stains?
Fast response is important in preventing stains from embedding into your slate floor. Here's what you can do to effectively address spills and commonplace stains!
Handling Spills
Utilize a soft cloth or paper towel to delicately blot the spill immediately. Don't rub the surfaces, as this could result in the liquid spreading, and exacerbating the stain's impact.
Removing Stains
While routine mopping generally takes care of most food remnants and stains, certain stains can prove persistent. For these issues, initiate your stain removal efforts with a gentle detergent and a bit of scrubbing. This approach is particularly useful for cleaning slate surfaces.
For food, oil, or wine stains, concoct a mixture comprising mild dish soap and warm water. Apply this solution to a soft sponge and gently blot the stain. Rinse the affected area with pristine water and ensure thorough drying.
In cases where the initial method proves insufficient, consider using a more potent stain-treatment solution by blending baking soda with a dash of peroxide. Combine these two ingredients in equal proportions to create a paste. Apply the paste onto the stain and allow it to sit for a few minutes, before wiping it away with a cloth.
Other Cleaning Tips
Preventing Scratches and Damage
To ensure you can prevent scratches and damage from happening to your slate, here are some of the things to keep in mind:
- Using protective pads underneath furniture legs
- Avoid dragging heavy objects across the floor
- Utilizing doormats to trap dirt at entryways
When cleansing slate, you should also avoid using harsh cleaners that can damage the slate's surface, such as acidic, abrasive, or oil-based cleaners.
Acid-based cleaners such as vinegar or lemon can cause a chemical reaction when exposed to slate stone and can cause the floor to become damaged. Abrasive chemicals can remove the sealer on the floor and grout, and expose the surface to liquids and stains. While oil-based cleaner will make it easier for the floors to become slippery and even clog up the textured surface of the slate.
Let Luce Handle Your Cleaning Needs!
By following the steps below, your slate flooring can be maintained for years to come. By dedicating time to proper maintenance, you'll be able to enjoy the timeless beauty and durability that slate flooring brings to your place.
Worry not about how to show proper care for your slate flooring, because you can simplify your cleaning routine by letting Luce take care of your cleaning needs! Our expert team is well-versed in preserving the beauty and longevity of slate flooring.
You can say goodbye to stubborn stains, and spills, and contact us today for professional slate cleaning services to bring out the best in your floors!
