How to Polish Slate

Co-authored by Jon Gholian

Last Updated: July 23, 2024 References

Slate is a fine-grained material used on roofs, as tile, or in furniture. Because it is composed of tiny minerals, such as quartz and hematite, slate often gives off an attractive sparkle. While you can polish slate, the result can be slippery and more difficult to clean. Consider regular cleaning and buffing as a simpler alternative.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Cleaning the Slate

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1
Strip away dirty wax if necessary. If the slate is covered in a layer of discolored or cracking wax, this needs to go before you can clean and polish it. Select a commercial floor stripper appropriate for stone and dilute with water according to label. Mop this over the floor and let dry, then rinse if directed by the label.
- Floor strippers are powerful chemicals. Protect yourself with goggles, rubber gloves, and excellent ventilation.
2
Clear away dirt and debris. Sweep the slate using a soft broom.^{[1]
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Expert Source

Jon Gholian
Cleaning Specialist

Expert Interview. 15 December 2020.} If you are handling slate tiles, make sure you remove all debris from the grout.
- You may use a vacuum cleaner instead, but only with a soft brush attachment.^{[2]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Jon Gholian
  Cleaning Specialist
  
  Expert Interview. 15 December 2020.} Handling the vacuum too vigorously may chip the slate.^{[3]
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  Research source}
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If your slate looks dirty or streaky, clean it before you start polishing. In most cases, mopping with warm water and plenty of soap will be enough to remove the dirt.^{[4]
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Expert Source

Jon Gholian
Cleaning Specialist

Expert Interview. 15 December 2020.} Rinse thoroughly to remove soap suds, then let dry until the slate looks dull and uniform.
4
Remove stubborn stains. If you clean the slate twice and still see grime, move on to stronger cleaners. An alkaline (high pH) cleaner such as ammonia-based glass cleaner or natural stone cleaner is your best bet for slate. If that doesn't work, rinse it off and try a mild acidic cleaner.
- Your best option is an alkaline commercial cleaner from a home improvement store, specifically for slate or at least for natural stone.
- Test all cleaners on a corner first. Acid can discolor some types of slate.^{[5]
  X
  Research source} Alkaline cleaners are less likely to cause damage, but this is not guaranteed.

Part 2

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Buffing to a Smooth Surface

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Wet the slate thoroughly. Buffing while dry may cause further scratches.
Buy 200 grit diamond pad or wet & dry sandpaper from a hardware store. Wet the abrasive, then rub it gently over scratched areas until the scratches are less visible.
Rinse off the slate and the abrasive to ensure that no dust remains to cause further scratches.
Move on to a 400 grit sanding surface. Once again, wet the slate and the abrasive, then start buffing. Rub it over a wider area this time to ensure a more uniform look.
Wash the dust off thoroughly from all materials.
Wet the slate and the 600 grit abrasive. Buff over the entire slate surface. Continue rubbing until the scratches are no longer visible. Rinse thoroughly when finished.

Part 3

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Creating a Glossy Surface

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A small amount of linseed oil will create a dark shine on the stone without causing damage. However, oil attracts dirt and makes the slate harder to clean.^{[6]
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Research source} For this reason, oil is not recommended for floors or outdoor surfaces.
2
Learn the pros and cons of sealer. Stone sealer can create as glossy a surface as you like, but can make it very slippery, especially when wet. If the slate is outdoors or in an unheated room, water can seep under the sealer and crack off the sealer when it freezes and thaws.
- Slate can be honed (smooth) or rough (with small jagged edges). Sealer is more effective on honed slate.
3
Apply the sealer. If you do decide to apply a sealer, find one specifically designed for slate or at least natural stone, preferably a penetrating sealer for long-lasting protection. Apply a thin layer with a paintbrush, following the grain of the slate. Let dry for two hours (or as the label recommends), and reapply as necessary.
- Test the sealer on a corner to ensure it results in the desired gloss/matte, slip resistance, and color.
Wait for at least 24 hours before walking over the fresh sealer.

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What are the things I can use to clean slate?

Jon Gholian
Cleaning Specialist
Jon Gholian is a Cleaning Specialist and the Founder of Cleany, a home and office cleaning concierge service based in New York City, New Jersey & Miami. Cleany specializes in providing quality cleaning and handyman services to all their customers. All Cleany employees are insured, bonded, and professionally trained. Cleany has been featured in the New York Times, Bravo & Redfin.

Jon Gholian

Cleaning Specialist

Expert Answer

You can use a soft broom, a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment, dish soap, and warm water.

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How can I laminate slate?

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You should consult a flooring expert to ensure that it is done properly.

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Can I use a penetrating enhancing sealer over the linseed oil?

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No, the oil will prevent it sticking to the slate, you will have to degrease it first.

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To keep your slate floor in good condition, do not place rubber mats on it. The rubber can stick to the slate and damage its surface.^{[7]
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Slate floors also can be dry-mopped daily in between polishing. Use a good quality dust mop that is not oil based. Oil will saturate the slate and dull its surface.

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Do not use abrasive cleaners on your slate.

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