When you look at the slate in your home, would you believe that once upon a time it was nothing but mud? While this may seem strange, the fact is that its ancient status as mud is actually why slate is so dense and non-porous – which is why it’s so resistant to both staining and damage.
The fact that it’s so durable, along with the many colors it’s available in, has made slate a popular choice for a wide range of applications both inside and outside the house. From using it on walls and floors, from fireplaces to countertops, and even patios and walkways, today there are many uses for slate.
If you have slate in your home, it’s important to know that by just paying it a little bit of attention, you can ensure it lasts for a lifetime. Read on to learn how Fuller Stone Care can help and then contact us at 310-944-9099 for more information.
We can improve the look of your slate in three main ways
First, we can provide professional cleaning. This is often the choice for folks who have stone that has an old wax or topical treatment on it, or for those who’ve had issues with mold or algae. Regardless of the situation, we can safely clean your slate with power washing.
Slate is extremely dense and is not very porous, which means that it doesn’t stain. This also means that it often doesn’t need to be sealed to keep it well maintained, but you may want us to seal your slate if you like the wet look or if you want a more intense color.
Finally, we can provide restoration services in the event that your slate is dull, has faded, or has been washed out. Our expert restoration services include a custom plan that’s made specifically for your stone and your situation. In most cases, it will start with deep cleaning, we’ll then work to minimize any chips or scratches, and we’ll end up with a new layer of sealant.
Tips for you to take care of slate on your own
At Fuller Stone Care, we are experts at a wide range of stones, including slate, but many of the best maintenance tips are tips you can follow on your own. First, we always recommend that if you spill anything on slate – especially anything oily – that you clean it up right away to prevent staining. You always want to make sure you’re mopping on a regular basis to get rid of any sand or grit that could scratch your slate floor.
Invest in doormats both inside and outside of your home to help prevent grit from getting tracked in at all, and don’t use waxes or polishes that are designed to give your slate floor a shiny finish. Never use an enhancing sealant that isn’t made specifically for slate and remember that interior and exterior stone needs different sealants. Finally, avoid any type of abrasive cleaner.
If you’re ready to find out more about our comprehensive slate restoration and cleaning services, give us a call at 310-944-9099 for your free quote.