Slate hearth restoration/cleaning

[dinglem]

We have uncovered a slate hearth which though complete is in an unkept state - we could very much like to retain this original hearth. Could anybody offer advice for restoration and cleaning of slate? I appears to have a VERY thin layer of rough material (possibly concrete or grout?) on the top - possibly where tiles have been laid at some point in the past.

Any help/advice appreciated.

Kind regards,

M.

 

[Mr.C]

I pinched this from Tile and Stoneware.co.uk;

For cleaning slate floor tiles that are contaminated by cement or grout residue:

• Pre-wet the floor with water
• Apply a solution of Aqua Mix Phosphoric Acid Cleaner (mixed 1 part Cleaner to 5 parts water, may be used stronger if required) to the floor *ALWAYS CONDUCT A SMALL TEST IN AN INCONSPICUOS AREA TO DETERMINE DESIRED RESULTS *
• Leave to dwell for a couple of minutes (unlike alkaline cleaners, acids work quite quickly)
• Agitate with a nylon bristle scrubbing brush
• Mop up dirty solution and rinse well with fresh water, scrubbing once again to remove any traces of the acid cleaner.
• May require additional treatments


I am also informed that bi-carbonate of soda and a scrubbing brush works quite well.

Don't forget to apply a proprietory sealer to the floor to keep your efforts in place.

 

[Nemesis]

I'd be very wary of sealers...

 

[thiambal]

Leave to dwell for a couple of minutes

I love the idea of leaving phosphoric acid to dwell. It sounds so quaint. Why not make it a cup of tea, or find a little rug for its knees