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[edit] Laying slate
Before you lay any Slate, you will need to grade your Slate into 3 thicknesses: Thin, Medium and Thick. You will need to select which side of the Slate will be the face and remove any loose particles, dirt and dust by washing.
We recommend that Slate is laid with premium adhesive like Beaumont Barrierflex. If you choose a more economical adhesive, then extra preparation is needed.
For example a thin mix of ABAcrete and Super Tile Set must be prepared. This slurry is then painted on the back of each tile and allowed to dry. This promoted setter bonding. If this is done ABA Super Tile Set is suitable. Lay the thickest tiles first.
[edit] Cutting slate
Generally, you will need a masonry fibre disc or diamond edged blade in an angle grinder to cut Slate. For just a few cuts, a hacksaw with a carborundum blade is fine.
[edit] Grouting
Refer to our grouting section. Use ABA Quarry Grout. This is specifically designed for the wider grout joints between Slate. We recommend that Quarry Grout is mixed with ABA Flexible Grout additive.
It is a good idea to put a thin coat of Slate Sealer over Slate before grouting (internally only). This makes the clean-up much easier.
[edit] Sealing slate
Remember, we do not recommend that Slate be used in "wet" areas. Allow 7-10 days after laying and grouting to ensure slate and adhesive is fully dry.
Clean the Slate with Slate Clean or Lift Off to remove dirt, dust, grout and any other impurity. Rinse this cleaner from the surface and allow to dry (minimum of 24 hours).
Apply Slate Seal Gloss or Slate Seal Satin. Slate seal will highlight the colours in the Slate. Apply 2-3 coats with a brush or roller. Allow 8 hours between coats. Ensure good ventilation of area during use. Surface area must not be hot.
Apply two coats of Slate Finish using a very light spray and lambs wool applicator. First coat apply with north-south sweeping motion. Second coat, east-west motion. Allow one hour drying time between coats. Allow to dry fully for 6 hours and the floor is ready to use.
[edit] Cleaning
Sweep regularly or vacuum. Washing the floor should only require a few drops of mild detergent in a bucket of warm water and a damp mop.
[edit] Maintenance
In doorways and high traffic areas when the floor loses its sheen, maintain a very light spray of Slate Finish and lambs wool applicator to localised area.
NOTE: Slate Finish is not suitable for outdoor use. If sealing Slate outdoors, maintain with further coats of Slate Seal. It is not generally advised to seal Slate outdoors.
[edit] Coverage
[edit] Tile Clean or Lift Off
Dilute 1:50 heavy soiling/1:100 light soiling
[edit] Slate Seal Satin or Slate Seal Gloss
1 Litre covers approx. 15-20 square metres per coat
[edit] Slate Finish
1 Litre covers approx. 40 square metres per coat.
