How to Seal Slate

If you have slate, you may want to consider sealing it for protection or to give it a nice shiny look. Follow these easy steps to make your slate really stand out!

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. 
   Five in One Tool

   Start by removing 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. To loosen up debris, you can use a vinegar/water mixture.

2. For very hard to clean areas, you can use muriatic acid mixed with water or 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. 
   Wash Slate with Clean Water

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

4. 
   Slate Sealer

   Now it's time to 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. 
   Painting Pad

   When you are ready to actually seal the slate, you'll need to choose your application tool. You can use a paint brush, roller, sprayer, or paint pad. I've used a painting pad with the most success. Pour some sealer into a paint tray and apply on the wall. Watch closely for drips as you apply the sealer. Make sure that you apply a thick covering as slate is porous.

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 or as long as directed.

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 this is the best place to practice before starting.
• Follow the instructions on all labels when working with any chemicals!

[HowDragon]

on 12/15/2008 Great info on sealing slate! 5*!