Revealing hidden slate

[Anonymous]

Hello all,

Here goes my first post: One of the many jobs we're currently working on in our cob cottage is trying to reveal the slate floor in our hallway, inexplicably covered in concrete and nasty carpet!

I've been chipping away at the concrete - a time-consuming and frustrating method - but it does seem to be working. The only problem is the slate seems to be dull and lifeless. Does anyone have any suggestions as to what to use to remove any vestiges of concrete / other scum and restore the slate to its natural beauty?
Thanks in anticipation.

 

[Anonymous]

Have you tried linseed oil for a polish, this makes slate fireplaces look better if they are a bit dull. You can get slate dressing liquid, but this really is only for slate fireplaces.

If the concrete is a thick layer, have you tried a battery powered breaker? It worked on my quarry tiles which were covered in concrete, but slate may be less durable. The trick was not to go to far and hit the surface you want o reveal.