Short answer: slate is first cleaned thoroughly, e.g. with GR 75 Deep Cleaner, and refreshed once completely dry. There are two ways: natural SB 49 Slate Oil (apply sparingly, let soak in, wipe off excess, repeat periodically) or a colour enhancer with sealing effect such as SI 80 or SI 83, which is also water-repellent. For regular care, UR 14 Floor Care is suitable.
Oil or colour enhancer?
| SB 49 Slate Oil | SI 80 / SI 83 Colour Enhancer | |
|---|---|---|
| Effect | Refreshes colour, temporary protection | Deepens colour, water-repellent, less prone to staining |
| Durability | Repeat periodically | Sealing effect |
| Coverage | 1 L for approx. 20–40 m² | 1 L for approx. 20–25 m² |
| Ideal for | Slate floors, walls, parapets, tables | Cleft slate, natural and engineered stone |
Guide: cleaning slate
- Mix GR 75: general cleaning 0.2–0.5 L to 10 L of water, deep cleaning 0.5–2 L to 10 L.
- Apply, leave for approx. 10 minutes, scrub – on cleft slate ideally with the RG 923 Multi-Fibre System or a nylon brush.
- Pick up the dirty water, wipe with clean water and let dry completely.
Guide: oiling slate with SB 49
- Check oil absorption in an inconspicuous spot.
- Apply SB 49 undiluted and sparingly with a soft brush, cloth or roller.
- Let it soak in, rub off excess oil with a cotton cloth.
Guide: enhancing colour with SI 80 or SI 83
- Only treat clean, completely dry surfaces, at 5–25 °C and out of direct sunlight.
- Apply undiluted and sparingly with a soft brush, microfibre cloth or roller.
- Let it soak in. On highly absorbent slate, apply a second coat.
All three products are flammable: dispose of soaked cloths in a metal tin (risk of spontaneous combustion).
Frequently asked questions
Why is my slate turning grey?
Wear, limescale from water and a lack of care make slate lose its rich colour. Cleaning and refreshing bring it back.
Can I treat slate with cooking oil?
We advise against it: cooking oils can go rancid and become sticky. A slate oil such as SB 49 is made for the job.
How do I care for slate afterwards?
With UR 14 Floor Care (1–2 dl per 10 L of water). It supports the protection and extends it considerably.
