It is not often that we get to work on a slate restoration project, but when we do the results are always stunning. There is something almost magical about revealing the colours of slate that have often been hidden away for many years.
Typically when you picture slate, a black stone will spring to mind. However, slate can come in many different colours from purple to green to red. The colour of slate will depend on the minerals within the stone. This will usually be determined by where the slate is found. For example, some of the most beautiful purple slate is quarried in North Wales.
Like all stone, slate needs to be carefully looked after to maintain its natural beauty. It is susceptible to scratching and also sensitive to staining. We always recommend regular sweeping of a slate floor and to ensure that the sealant is regularly topped up in order to protect the stone from water ingress. It is important to ensure that the floor is clean and dry before resealing.
Compared to some of the polished stone that we work with such as marble and limestone, slate is usually associated with a more rustic interior style. It is for this reason that don’t often get to work on a slate restoration project. A slightly more worn slate can add to the rustic charm of a country abode. However, every now and again we get to transform a slate floor and bring back that stunning natural beauty.
Following a flood in their property, our clients’ slate floor was left badly water stained. Following a survey of the site, it was clear that a little more than a deep clean would be needed.
The team started by stripping any existing sealants using alkaline cleaning compounds and 220 grit honing powder. The slate tiles were then resurfaced with flexible diamond abrasive pads. Following this a consolidating sealant was added to tiles which are delaminating. The slate restoration project was completed with the 3 coats of colour enhancing impregnating sealant throughout and a surface wax.
“We would like to thank you for your team being so polite, punctual , clean and tidy and doing exactly what they promised.” Pete and Ginny.
Ahead of Decorex 2024, we are exploring the hot topics of the show that so naturally throw stone into the limelight.
Read More
