Dirty Slate

[Maltelaurids]

We recently puchased "Earth" gauged slate from China at the Home Depot and it is very dirty, straight from the box. We plan on installing this throughout the downstairs.... Does someone have any suggestions for cleaning it up? I thought initially that I could just scrub it after the install.... but having read a few posts I am now completely unsure.... Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

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[Stonehenge]

Hi M.,

A quick rinse will help to remove some of the excessive dust, I also suggest that you preseal with an impregnator or color enhancer before and after installation. Sealant application before installation will help in grout residue accumulation upon the stone, and allow an easier installation.

Michael of Stonehenge

[Shaughnn]

Hello Mal,
It's tedious, but I was taught to wash every piece of slate before installation. Not only is it a "dusty" stone but it's also got natural oils which can compromise your bond. The process I've found to be most efficient is to just use a slow running garden hose and a soft-bristled "car" brush in circular motions. A stiffer brush might actually gouge the soft stone. A worn-out sponge will also work as long as it's pliable enough to get into nooks and such.
Wet the stone on both sides, swirls the wet brush on both sides, rinse on both sides, stack standing on edge to drip dry. When you've got a stack that's not to big to carry and they've shed most of their water, move them to someplace where they can dry completely, if you plan to pre-seal them. If not pre-sealing, you can move them to where they'll be installed and commence as soon as you've got enough cleaned.
Best of luckl,
Shaughnn

[Maltelaurids]

Thanks for the tips. We are doing a pretty large space (1700 SQ FT) so I'm not looking forward to this task..but if it has to be done, it has to be done.