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Slate tile is derived from a type of metamorphic rock called slate, which is found abundantly all over the world. The durability of this stone is witnessed from the fact that it has been popularly used for flooring and roofing for quite a long time. Another advantage of slate tiles is that they have a slightly rough surface and are slip resistant. So, when installed as floors, these metamorphic rock-based tiles are not slippery, even in wet conditions. Installing slate tile floor is a sure way to enhance the elegance of any room, while you get the advantage of highly durable flooring. Nevertheless, during installation, make sure you purchase appropriate slate tiles of correct thickness that suit the room temperature and foot traffic. Since they are easy to install, you can consider laying them on your own, as you do for ceramic tiles. The only concern is, purchasing an appropriate grout (or thinset), and grouting slate tile properly, so as to seal the tile surface and protect water penetration to the sub floor. How to Grout a Slate Tile Floor? In terms of versatility, slate tile is not behind other options; you can select it from a wide range of colors such as orange, red, gray, brown, blue, green, etc. Also, individual slate tiles are different from each other. Hence, you can bring that natural touch to your flooring by laying slate tiles. Before you engage yourself in installing slate tiles, read the instructions mentioned below to grout slate tile floor: Selecting Grout and Supplies First of all, you need to choose grout; make sure that the color matches the slate tile which you are installing. Or else, if you are laying tiles in a ruler straight pattern, consider applying a contrast color grout to demarcate them and create a unique design. Other than grout, you will require rubber float, tile sealer, grout sealer, hand sander (or floor buffer), sponge mop, bucket and paintbrush. Sealing Tile Slate tiles are porous, hence there is always a chance of absorbing grout (during application), which will make the tiles look dull. Refer to the manufacturer's directions and mix the tile sealer in a bucket. Scoop a small amount of the sealer and using a sponge mop, gently spread it evenly over the surface of each tile. Applying Grout Once you are done with sealing tiles, you can actually begin grouting tile floors. In a bucket, mix grout as per the directions of the manufacturer. Take some grout into the rubber float and carefully apply it into the space between two adjoining tiles. Add more grout mixture into the joints and move the float back and forth to seal the joints. Wiping Grout Cover one joint at a time to grout the slate tiles properly. After you complete grouting one portion of the slate tile, wipe excess grout before it dries out. This will save your time while cleaning the slate tile floor. Repeat the same to cover all the spaces, taking extra care while applying grout in the joint angles. Cleaning Slate Tile After you have completed grouting slate tile floors, clean the dried grout remains with a hand sander or floor buffer. You can also run a damp sponge over the tile surface several times, in order to get rid of grout residues. Nevertheless, do not scrub the damp sponge in the joints. This is how you can go about grouting slate tile floors. The decision whether the grout should be sealed or not depends upon you. For grouting slate tile backsplash, it is better to seal it, as this area is frequently exposed to moisture and water. If the sealing area is small, you can use a regular paintbrush to directly seal the grout. With this, your highly durable slate tile flooring is ready to use. For more information and assistance, check this links below: tile and grout cleaners northshore
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