Tips From The Trade: Will Sealing Your Slate Tile Change Its Color?

Slate tile is one of the most distinctive and enduring materials nature has to offer. With its rich shades of gray, brown, and rusty red, natural slate brings an earthy warmth that transforms any space into something timeless and inviting. The subtle texture and layered surface of slate tiles give them an authentic character that feels both grounded and refined. Whether you’re browsing a slate collection online or seeing it in person, you’ll notice that no two pieces are exactly alike—a hallmark of genuine natural stone.

When properly sealed and maintained, slate tile offers lasting beauty and durability in kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, and even outdoor use areas like patios and garden walkways. Sealing is key to protecting slate tiles from moisture, spills, and stains while helping you achieve your preferred finish—matte, enhanced, or glossy. One common question homeowners ask before sealing their slate tile is whether the process will change its color or texture.

The short answer: It’s entirely up to you. Some prefer the natural, muted look of freshly installed slate tiles, while others love the deep, dramatic tones a sealer can bring out. Below are the most common types of sealers, along with what they can do for your slate tile installation.

Impregnating Clear Sealers

Montauk Blue Slate

If you love the raw, organic appeal of natural slate, an impregnating clear sealer is ideal. This type of water-based sealer penetrates deeply into the porous surface, offering strong protection while preserving the original color and feel of your slate tile. You might need multiple coats to ensure complete coverage, and a quick water test—dropping a bead of water onto the surface—will show how well the tile repels moisture. Application is simple: pour, spread evenly, and allow time for the product to absorb. The slate tiles will temporarily darken when wet but return to their natural hue once dry.

Enhancing Sealers

Rustic Gold Slate

Enhancing sealers are designed to amplify the color and richness of your slate tile. If your tiles appear chalky or muted, an enhancer will bring them to life, adding subtle depth and luster. These sealers are solvent-based and applied in the same way as water-based products. The main difference is that enhancing sealers retain a “wet look,” giving your slate tiles a permanent soft sheen. Always test on a spare tile first so you can preview how your surface will look once sealed.

Topical Glossy Sealers

Montauk Black Slate

For homeowners who love a sleek, polished finish, a topical glossy sealer delivers that show-stopping shine. Available in both water- and solvent-based forms, these sealers sit on top of the slate tiles, creating a thin protective layer that enhances durability and stain resistance. They’re especially popular for high-traffic areas or installations where slate tile is used as a focal point. However, since glossy finishes may highlight scuffs over time, periodic reapplication is recommended to maintain their luxurious appearance.

No matter which type of sealer you choose, proper preparation and care will keep your slate tiles looking beautiful for years. Sealing isn’t optional—it’s an essential step in caring for slate flooring and ensuring it performs well in both interior and exterior settings. From rustic kitchens to serene bathrooms and elegant patios, slate tile brings a level of sophistication and strength few materials can match.

Whether you’re drawn to solid grays or vibrant multicolored variations, sealing allows you to customize the final look of your slate tile installation. Explore the range of finishes, experiment with samples, and find the balance that reflects your style.

Have you fallen in love and ready to start your search for "where to buy slate tile near me?" We'd love to help! Chat with us online, visit one of our showrooms, or find an MSI authorized dealer near you.