Tile Style: Easy Care Guide For Slate Flooring

The natural beauty of slate tiles makes them a timeless favorite for homeowners looking to bring warmth, texture, and character to any space. Their organic tones and distinctive surface variations create an elegant foundation, especially for areas like the living room, where comfort meets style. While slate tiles are exceptionally durable, all natural stone requires a bit of mindful care to maintain its natural charm. With proper stone care and maintenance, your slate tile flooring can last for decades.

Montauk Black Slate

Daily Slate Care

Sweep your slate tile floor daily to remove dirt, grit, and dust that could dull the surface. This step is particularly important during the first few months after installation, when the tiles may experience light “spalling,” meaning tiny flakes might naturally shed from the surface. Don’t worry—this is temporary and stops once the slate tiles fully settle.

When mopping, use a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner formulated for natural stone. Avoid lemon, vinegar, or acidic solutions, as they can damage the stone. Rinse with clean water and allow it to air-dry or wipe dry with a soft, absorbent cloth. Keeping up with these small daily habits will preserve the smooth, elegant finish of your living room slate flooring.

San Rio Rustic Slate

Slate Sealing

Just like other natural stone surfaces, slate tiles benefit greatly from regular sealing. Sealers help protect against scratches, stains, and moisture absorption. For most homeowners, sealing once a year is sufficient, though some types of slate may require more frequent treatment depending on foot traffic and use—especially in high-traffic spaces like the living room.

To check if your slate tile flooring needs resealing, pour a small amount of water on the surface. If the water darkens the stone for more than 10 minutes, it’s time for a new coat of sealer.

Special Care for Slate

Slate flooring may scratch more easily than some other materials, but minor blemishes can often be treated at home. Rubbing a touch of mineral oil over light scratches can help blend them in. For tougher stains, use a commercial stone poultice or make your own with flour and hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it sit overnight before gently wiping it away. A second application may be needed for deeper discoloration.

Montauk Black Slate

Slate Dos and Don’ts

DO:

• Use rugs or mats in entryways and high-traffic areas, like the living room, to protect your slate floors.

• Reapply sealer annually.

• Clean spills immediately to prevent staining.

• Use a pH-neutral cleaner made for natural stone.

• Lift, don’t drag, furniture across the floor.

DO NOT:

• Use abrasive or acidic cleaners containing vinegar, lemon, or bleach.

• Drag furniture or heavy objects without a protector underneath.

• Use vacuum cleaners with a beater bar.

A Floor That Lasts for Generations

Caring for slate tiles is largely about consistency and common sense. Once you establish a simple maintenance routine, you’ll find it easy to preserve their natural beauty for years to come. Whether in the kitchen, hallway, or living room, MSI’s slate tile flooring adds a warm, grounded elegance that enhances every moment at home.

For help selecting the perfect slate tile, use our website chat feature, visit an MSI showroom, or find an authorized MSI dealer near you.

For assistance in picking out your slate tile or to learn where to buy slate tile, please use our website's chat feature, visit an MSI showroom, or find an authorized MSI dealer in your area.