Slate product care

Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic rock formed over many years, strong compression binding fine-grained clay flakes together. Often found in various shades of grey, slate can also be purple, green or cyan depending on the mineral content of the stone.

Although quite fragile when sliced into thin slabs, once laid and sealed, slate is a durable material, ideal for floors with a country or rustic aesthetic.

Slate tiles should be fixed depending on their size and weight, and in accordance with the substrate requirements they are being fixed to.

Slate tiles, whether on a wall or floor, should be fitted using a suitable Cement Based Powder (C) adhesive.

Due to the weight of slate, if fixing to a wall, always check the maximum tiling weight of the substrate first.

Most slate will vary in thickness due to its natural layering therefore the tiles should be examined prior to fitting with the thickest tile fitted first allowing for all remaining tiles to be laid and brought up to the same level.

To make laying slate floor tiles easier, slate tiles are often calibrated, which means the base of the tile is flat and smooth making them easier to fit and achieve a level floor. If you’re using uncalibrated slate floor tiles, then a pourable thick-bed adhesive is recommended.

Once your slate tiles have been fitted and grouted, all residues and polymers must be removed from the surface of the tile.

The first step is to use the Fila Stone Cement Residue Remover.

How to use:

Dilute 1:30 with clean water and spread the solution over the tiles with a cloth (dilution ratios may vary depending on the tiles sensitivity – check manufacturer’s guidance). The product shouldn’t be used neat as the dilution with water activates the ingredients in the cleaner.

Leave to act for 5 minutes. Using a suitable emulsifying pad, work the solution over the surface. Clean up the residue and rinse thoroughly with plenty of clean water.

A second application maybe necessary to remove any existing residue.

For stubborn residues, use the Fila Multi Surface Stain Remover.

Your slate tiles will need sealing to protect them from staining, Fila’s Natural Look Stainproof Sealer can be used however, to really emphasise the beautiful colours in the slate, we’d recommend a Colour Intensifier.

How to use:

Apply a thin coat of the product over the clean tiles with a brush, allow to dry and then repeat.

In high traffic or wet areas, this process should be repeated regularly, ideally twice a year.

For regular cleaning and maintenance we’d recommend using a pH neutral cleaner like Fila’s Multi Surface Cleaner . You can read our helpful guide on cleaning natural stone , including a few tips on getting rid of those tough stains.