How to Seal Slate

Slate will stain different colors if not sealed.

If you have slate, you may want to consider sealing it for protection or to give it a nice shiny look. Slate is a foliated rock which will absorb water and other liquids. This can cause staining of the original color and once stained, because the stain will soak into the stone, the slate surface is extremely difficult to clean. Sealing slate will put on a protective covering to prevent staining and keep the original color long lasting.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Tool to clean slate
• Sponge
• Slate Sealer
• Vinegar or professional grade slate/tile cleaner
• Painting pad applicator, paint brush, roller, or sprayer

1. Remove any grout or mortar that may be on your slate. Large areas of grout can be removed by carefully using a 5-in-one tool which can also be purchased at a tile store or any home improvement store. Use carefully so that you don't scratch or gouge your slate.

2. For very hard to clean areas, you can use a professional grade slate cleaner. When using these heavy duty products make sure that you have adequate ventilation as well as eye and hand protection. Follow the directions exactly.

3. Once you have the slate clean, wipe completely with a large sponge and water. Then allow to dry completely.

4. Choose your sealer. There are different types of sealer on the market and the one you use will depend on the end look that you are trying to achieve. Talk to your local tile supply store, they should be able to point you in the right direction and probably even show you samples of different applications.

5. Prepare the area that is going to be sealed by removing outlet covers, taping off any wood trim, covering cabinets, etc. Make sure that anything you don't want sealer on is protected. The sealer is usually quite thin and can drip easily.

6. Choose your application tool. You can use a paint brush, roller, sprayer, or paint pad. Pour some sealer into a paint tray and apply onto the slate. Watch closely for drips as you apply the sealer. Make sure that you apply a thick covering because slate is porous and the sealer will soak in deeply.

7. After you have completed sealing the slate, make sure that the area is kept clean and free of people or debris for at least 24 hours.

Tips & Warnings

• Test a small area of slate to make sure that you like the final look before sealing an entire wall or floor area. If you have some extra slate, practice sealing on these pieces first.

• Follow the instructions on all labels when working with any slate cleaning and slate sealing products.