Many others however prefer to seal the slate for a variety of reasons.
Do i need to seal my slate floor.
A below surface or penetrating sealer will seep down into the material clogging the pores so that stains cannot get in.
You can test this when it s dry by dropping a bit of water on the tile surface to see how well it beads up.
The slate must be clean before applying the sealer or you will seal any dirt and marks on to the slate.
Slate and other stone floors don t need to be sealed though if left open they are porous and exposed.
Use clean warm water without detergent as some can react with the sealer.
A penetrating or surface sealer will protect the slate which is somewhat porous from stains.
Certain sealers can also.
An impregnating clear sealer will soak deep into the slate to protect it from stains and contaminates.
You should choose a sealing option that best suits your slate for depending on how you want the floor to look and how much maintenance is required for the sealer chosen.
There are two basic types of sealant that can be used on a slate floor.
Just pour the sealer onto the stone and use a towel to spread it around evenly.
Too much moisture can stain the stone so it is recommended that even if you don t seal all of your slate floors you at least seal those parts in high traffic areas.