How to Restore a Slate Fire Surround

Prepare the area around your slate fireplace for the cleaning. Cover all walls and floors at least four feet out from the fireplace with plastic sheeting and lock it in place with masking tape. For the floors, cover the plastic with drop cloths to help contain the drips and splashback from the cleaning.

Clean the slate surface completely to uncover what lies beneath. Mix your grout and tile cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it to the surface of your slate tile fireplace surround. Use the scrub brush to clean the slate. Repeat the process as necessary until the grime and dirt are completely removed.

Apply some form of topical sealer or stone enhancer if you wish to add a glossy sheen to the face of your slate tile fireplace, or leave the stone looking natural. Use an old rag to liberally apply the sealer to the face of the slate. Cover all of the slate tiles as well as the grout joints according to the manufacturer’s instructions (which all vary depending on the brand of sealer you purchase) and let the sealer dry before using the fireplace.