Cleaners - Slate

How to Care for Your Slate Paving

Slate adds timeless elegance to patios, pathways, and garden features. Its natural beauty, colour shades, and fine texture stand out outdoors. Although less porous than some stones, slate can still absorb moisture, stain, and wear from weather. To keep it looking great, regular cleaning and proper products are essential. Using the wrong cleaners can damage the surface, cause colour changes, or wear away the stone’s natural finish.

Understanding Slate – Natural Stone Characteristics

Slate forms from clay and minerals pressed under heat and pressure. Its layers create a smooth, dense surface with low absorption. Still, moisture, dirt, and organic matter can stain or weather slate over time, especially in damp or shaded spots. Slate needs proper care to preserve its look and durability in outdoor spaces.

Why Using the Wrong Cleaners Can Damage Slate

Many common cleaners contain acids, bleach, or harsh chemicals that harm slate by causing:

❌ Surface erosion that leads to pitting or flaking.
❌ Fading or discolouration, stripping the stone’s natural colour.
❌ Salt buildup (efflorescence), which leaves tough white deposits.

Avoid vinegar, acidic products, bleach, and general patio cleaners to prevent long-term damage.

Recommended Cleaning & Protection for Slate

Use cleaners made specifically for natural stone. These products:

✔ Remove dirt, stains, and organic build-up safely.
✔ Protect slate’s texture and colour with regular use.
✔ Work gently with slate’s composition to avoid damage.

For grease or oil stains from barbecues and outdoor dining, choose strong degreasers made for slate. They lift tough marks without harming the stone.

Sealing for Long-Term Protection

Sealing slate helps protect against moisture, stains, and wear. A good stone sealer will:

✔ Repel water, oil, and dirt to prevent deep stains.
✔ Reduce moss and algae growth to keep surfaces clean.
✔ Increase durability by limiting surface erosion.
✔ Maintain slate’s natural colour and texture over time.

Seal your slate every 12 to 24 months, depending on weather and use. Proper sealing makes cleaning easier and protects against damage.

Why Choosing the Right Products Matters

We recommend only slate-specific cleaners and sealers because they:

✅ Clean effectively without harming the stone.
✅ Help extend slate’s lifespan by reducing wear.
✅ Keep your slate looking fresh and naturally beautiful.

Avoid off-the-shelf household or patio cleaners that may cause harm. Specialist products are the safest way to maintain slate’s condition.

Slate adds style and sophistication to any outdoor area. With proper care and the right products, it stays in great shape for years. Use targeted cleaners for stains like grease and oil, and seal regularly to prevent damage.

Using correct products ensures your slate paving stays clean, protected, and attractive, without risking damage from unsuitable cleaners.