by Susan
Share
by Susan
Share
Want a clean slate fireplace hearth or fireplace surround? Here are the instructions you need for routine slate cleaning, deep cleaning, stain removal and polishing. Choose from either inexpensive home cleaning remedies or more expensive but powerful commercial slate cleaning products.
Natural slate is a durable product with an earthy, welcoming vibe. Because it is porous, however, it tends to absorb moisture and stains. And dust and dirt can accumulate, especially in the corners, and over time become difficult to remove.
Routine Cleaning of Slate Fireplace Hearths and Surrounds
- Dust, sweep or vacuum the fireplace slate.
- For routine cleaning, use a cloth to clean slate with a few drops of dish washing detergent or Spic and Span in a half bucket of water. Rinse with clean water; then wipe dry with another cloth. Allow to dry overnight before using additional cleaners or polishing.
How to Deep Clean Slate
When the surface is thoroughly dried after a routine cleaning, try either of the cleaning processes recommended below:
- Use a commercial product to deep clean slate hearths or surrounds. Recommended products for cleaning fireplace slate include Black Diamond Stone & Tile Intensive Cleaner, Miracle Sealant Tile & Stone Cleaner, Brick Masonry & Stone Cleaner by A.W. Perkins, and Marble, Travertine, Limestone & Slate Cleaner & Resealer. Follow the manufacturers’ directions on the container.
- Using a soft cloth, wipe the slate down with a thin layer of teak oil. With another clean cloth, remove any excess.
How to Remove Stains from Slate Hearths and Fireplace Surrounds
If the deep cleaning left any stains, try any of the procedures listed below to get stains off of slate:
- One method of removing stains is to clean slate with a paste mix of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Wait until the bubbling ceases, then apply the paste to the stain. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, then wipe off with a clean, moist cloth. Do not get this paste mixture on grout between slabs of slate.
- If oil stains are the issue (popcorn and nachos by the hearth come to mind), a product specifically designed to remove such oil stains, such ad StoneTech Professional Oil Stain Remover, is recommended. Follow the directions exactly, and this product really does the job!
- If soot and smoke stains are the primary problem, you can clean slate with Paint N Peel without using harsh chemicals.
- For persistent stains that don’t respond to the hydrogen peroxide paste, scrub with Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) carefully following manufacturer’s directions.
How to Polish Slate
Some of the commercial slate cleaners include a polishing agent. And if you have used teak oil to clean slate, that often provides a sufficient gloss.
For a bit more gloss on your slate, we recommend Black Diamond Wet Look Natural Stone Sealer. Because slate is a porous stone, it will not leave the “wet” look advertised, but it will give a good sheen. It also seals it from future staining.
In the eighteenth century, slate hearths were polished with hot mutton fat. As a 21st century alternative, we recommend teak oil or furniture polish.
5 Ways to Prevent Chimney Leaks A leaking pipe, a leaking roof, a leaking window, a leaking chimney – none of them is good. Here are 5 ways make your chimney leak-proof and prevent chimney leaks. See how to fix chimney leaks and prevent them in, through and around your chimney. #1 Way to Prevent Chimney Leaks: Install a […]
When is a headache, nausea, and fatigue not “just the flu” and, instead, carbon monoxide poisoning? And how can you prevent carbon monoxide poisoning in your home? Every year 20,000 Americans are treated in emergency rooms for carbon monoxide poisoning. But many of those at first thought they were dealing with a run-of-the-mill bug. Those […]
Which of these summer fireplace myths do you believe? Learn the facts that might surprise you about fireplaces in summertime. Summer Fireplace Myth #1: Since you won’t be burning a fire in hot weather, your fireplace will have to suffer from Black Hole Syndrome. A fireplace candelabra brings the tiny fires of candlelight to your fireplace without […]
Some people find a bird stuck in their chimney or fireplace and panic. Others search for a solution such as the ones we offer for removing a bird stuck in chimney or sitting in a fireplace. The most creative come up with their own unique solution for a bird stuck in chimney. That’s what Nic did when […]