Friday, August 30, 2019

Labor Day

Labor Day is September 2nd. It is a federal holiday which honors the American worker, who has added to the prosperity and well being of our country. Certainly, we as Carpet Cleaners fit into this classification.

In 1887, Oregon became the first state to make Labor Day an official public holiday. By the time it became an official federal holiday in 1894, thirty states officially celebrated it.

Labor Day has been labeled the “unofficial end of summer” because it marks the end of the cultural summer season. It is traditional for parades and picnics to be held in communities all across the country. Many fall activities also begin at this time.

During the Labor Day weekend, the NCAA usually play their first football games. The NFL traditionally plays their kickoff game the Thursday after Labor Day. The Southern 500 NASCAR auto race is held at Darlington Raceway in Darlington, South Carolina. At Indianapolis Raceway Park, the NHRA hold their finals for the U.S. National Drag races. It is also the middle point between weeks one and two of the U.S. Open Tennis Championships held in Flushing Meadow, NY.

Once again there are a plethora of National, State and Local activities that take place Labor Day Weekend.

Wherever you are, whoever you are with, take time to acknowledge yourselves and the hard work you do and the fact that our small businesses are the backbone of our country.

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog®

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene® Team.



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Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Upholstery Cleaning and Care Seminar for Kittle’s Furniture


Recent Upholstery Cleaning and Care Seminar by Bane-Clene® for Kittle’s Furniture Indianapolis

Kittles vans in front of Bane-Clene Building



Dan Willis, Service Company Manager for Bane-Clene®, recently conducted an upholstery seminar, including hands-on training, exclusively for employees of the upholstery and repair division of Kittle’s Furniture of Indianapolis.

Kittles vans in front of Bane-Clene Building
Kittles employees in class

Topics on Upholstery Care Covered by Dan Willis:

Related Upholstery Care Articles:

Upholstery Care Products Discussed and Demonstrated in the Seminar:

Kittles vans in front of Bane-Clene Building

Kittles vans in front of Bane-Clene Building




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Copyright: Bane-Clene® Corp.

Date Modified: August 28, 2019

Date Published: August 28, 2019



Friday, August 23, 2019

BE ENTHUSIASTIC


When you walk in to see a prospective customer or when you call on an existing customer, be enthusiastic.

To be a successful sales person, you need to generate a positive first impression. Prepare yourself mentally for your presentation and your customer will feel it. If you walk into their home or office as though you are dragging a 50 pound weight, they will sense that. You are then wasting your time; you might as well have never gone to see them in the first place.

The first objective of any successful sales person should be to help, not just to make a sale. The person you are talking to will sense whether you are sincere about their needs. After all, their needs are why you are there in the first place. Once you have established their needs, then help them satisfy those needs. If you put helping first, then you will not have to sell as hard and your sales will increase.

How do you determine your customer’s needs? First, ask questions, find out what issues they are having, what are their needs? Second, listen to the answers they give to your questions. Third, work with your customer to analyze those answers and therein will lie the needs.

When you are selling, you are doing something to them. However, when you are helping, you are really doing something for them.

After you have helped your customer determine their needs, then take the final step - “ask for the order”. It is amazing how many sales people neglect to do that.

Above all remember to be enthusiastic.

Related Information and Articles:

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog®

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The Bane-Clene® Team.





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Wednesday, August 21, 2019

How to Remove Coffee and Tea Stains from Carpets and Rugs

Coffee and Tea Spot & Stain Removal from Carpet

How to remove coffee stains from carpet

How to Remove Coffee, Latte, Cappuccino, Mocha and Tea Stains from Carpet

Professional Procedure to Remove Coffee or Tea Stain from Carpets or Rugs:

  • Have customer absorb the majority of the spill immediately and leave a weighted moist towel on the spill overnight. This will greatly improve the likelihood of removal when you get there.
  • If the spill was extremely heavy, use the Water Claw® Surface Spot Lifter to more thoroughly flush out the spill.
  • Mix Pro-Zyme according to directions on bottle.
  • Apply solution to stained fibers to thoroughly wet fibers.
  • Gently but thoroughly agitate fibers to break up and emulsify deposit. Dwell time will help the biochemistry work for you here.
  • Thoroughly rinse via water extraction leaving carpet as dry as possible (do not use an acid rinsing agent here).
  • If stain remains and this is not a natural fiber such as wool or sisal, apply Stain Magic® to the discolored fibers with trigger sprayer and gently agitate.
  • If the carpet or rug is wool, use Stain Magic for Wool instead.
  • Stain should disappear in 1 to 8 hours depending on severity.
  • To speed stain removal, especially with old stains, use the Energizer Light for Stain Magic with Stain Magic or cover the spot with plastic overnight to slow down evaporation of the Stain Magic.
  • NOTE: Removal of some of the rug dye is always possible in this type of system!
  • For heavy spills, follow with Stain Blotter to absorb any further coffee that wicks to the surface. The customer can vacuum up the Stain Blotter the next day.
  • If the spill covers a large area, instead of Stain Blotter, treat with
  • ARA to keep the stain from coming back.

Homeowner Procedures to Remove Coffee or Tea Stain from Carpets or Rugs:

  • Blot as much of the spill as possible with a clean, white towel. (DO NOT RUB)
  • Mix 1/4 teaspoon mild liquid dish soap with one cup warm water.
  • Test the above cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous section of carpet to make sure the solution doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage.
  • Apply the solution to a cloth, and use the cloth to apply the solution to the coffee stain.
  • Work from the outside of the stain toward the center.
  • Leave the cleaning solution on the spill for at least five minutes.
  • Blot with a clean white cloth until the stain no longer transfers - do not to rub the stained area
  • Rinse the spot with cold water, making sure all excess cleaning solution is removed from the carpet.
  • If the coffee stain is still visible, repeat the process until it is removed, or no longer transfers to the cloth.
  • Once the stain is removed, layer white paper towels on the site to soak up any extra moisture.
  • Weigh down the towels with a non-staining glass or ceramic object (think like a paperweight), and let them sit overnight.
  • When the carpet is dry, vacuum the area to restore the texture.
  • You can also use Perky® Spotter according to label directions.
  • If unsuccessful:
    • Call the Bane-Clene locator service at 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!) for a professional in your zip code area.
    • Or use our Find a Cleaner function to locate a cleaner in your area.

Why Coffee Stains are so Stubborn and Hard to Remove:

  • The hotter the coffee was when spilled and the longer it is left on the carpet, the more difficult it is to remove the coffee stain.
  • Nearly always, the spill is heavy and absorbed into the carpet pad and even to the subfloor and it’s usually hot which quickly penetrates carpet protectors such as Scotchgard and Teflon.
  • Additionally, a typical coffee has tannins, cream or milk to your coffee, meaning there’s also a protein stain to treat.
  • The faster you can treat the spill, the better your odds are at removing the stain completely.
  • If the spilled coffee or tea is in the sub-floor and pad, simple cleaning may result in the spotwicking back.
  • Many instant freeze-dried coffees have dye added to darken the crystals and increase a look of richness, which may make removal from carpeting more difficult.
  • NOTE: Pure coffee has a pH of 5 - 5.5 (slightly acidic). When cream is added, the pH rises to about 7 (neutral).

Want more spot and stain removal tips?
FREE class by Pro's Choice covers the basics of stain removal from carpets in the morning and Pet Stains and Odor Control in the afternoon!
Give yourself an advantage over your competition!

Friday October 11, 2019 at the
Bane-Clene® Training Center
3940 N. Keystone Ave.
Indianapolis, IN 46205
800-428-9512
Call TODAY to register!

The morning spotting class is taught using lecture and Power Point presentation. The instructor will cover the basics and advanced techniques of stain removal. Class includes hands-on demonstrations.

The morning spotting class is split into 4 basic categories:

  1. Synthetic Food Dyes: Stains containing man made dye - Examples: Kool-Aid®, Fruit Punch, Colored Candy, Cough Syrup, etc.
  2. Organic Stains: Stains from a natural source - Examples: Wood Furniture, Mustard, Coffee, Mold, Tea, Urine, etc.
  3. Petroleum based Stains: Petroleum Derivative - Examples: Gum, Grease, Tar, Ink, Adhesive, Glue, etc.
  4. Protein based stains (Biological): Stains originating from body secretion - Examples: Vomit, Blood, Feces, Urine, etc.

This class also covers more advanced topics like combination stains, bleach spot repair and reappearing stains.

To register....Call Toll-Free....800 428 9512
EARLY REGISTRATION IS ENCOURAGED AS SPACE IS LIMITED!

Pro's Choice Spot and Stain Removal Products Covered Include:

The afternoon class covers the basics of pet odor identification, mapping, estimating and treatment.

This session covers advanced topics of Odor Control and troubleshoots common challenges in addressing pet odors in the field as well as treating urine contamination on natural fibers.

Pro's Choice Odor Control Products Covered Include:

Related Odor Control Deodorizer Information:

Bane-Clene Pros Choice Spotting Class

Related Spotting Information and Articles:

Related Spot and Stain Removal Videos:

Related Spot and Stain Removal Products (Links Open to the Bane-Clene Store in Separate Windows):


Free Bane-Clene Information Package

Bane-Clene Paper CatalogFree packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail.

You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form.


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Copyright: Bane-Clene® Corp.

Date Modified: August 21, 2019

Date Published: November 10, 2014


VIDEO: How to Remove Coffee Stains from Carpet - Presented by Bane-Clene

From a presentation at a Bane-Clene training class for carpet cleaning companies by Bane-Clene’s chemist, Don Terry, on How to Remove Coffee Stains from Carpet.

Friday, August 16, 2019

LANDING THE BIG CARPET CLEANING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT


LANDING THE BIG CONTRACT

How to win the big carpet cleaning contract

No one usually imagines landing the big contract on the first sales call. Even though you may offer superior products and services, a prospect has to be convinced.

This is where your sales abilities come into play. Preparation is the key. You should have thoroughly analyzed the prospects needs and they carefully prepare a presentation that “step by step” takes you to landing the big contract.

Step 1 is to establish a relationship with your prospect. It may take several calls or face to face meetings to gather facts, to answer questions and in general to get better acquainted. Once again it is important to gather information, to gauge the personality of your prospect and to learn about any problems and concerns they have.

Step 2 is to carefully analyze your information. What is the best way to appeal to your prospect? If you were in their situation, what would you be looking for in a service provider. The more you can identify with your prospect and see things from their point of view, the better you’ll be able to design a presentation that will appeal to them.

Step 3 is to not rush your presentation. You’ve got your facts and figures and you have analyzed their needs. Take your time when making your presentation, when finished ask for any questions or comments. Be prepared and try to foresee any questions or objections.
If they ask something that either you can't immediately answer or did not prepare for, do not appear flustered. Ask for time to address the situation and tell them you will contact them when you have an answer. Do not wait too long as you do not want them to lose interest.

Landing the Big Contract is usually hard work. It takes a great deal of planning, effort and patience. But successful Carpet Cleaning Companies know it is worth it.

Related Information and Articles:


VIDEO: Bane-Clene® Cleaning School Carpet







Cleaning School Carpet with Bane-Clene Equipment - Going Portable with Base Unit.

VIDEO: NCAA Headquarters Cleaned by Bane-Clene®









Carpets and Upholstery Cleaned using the Para-Mount®
Truckmount Carpet Cleaning Machine - Going Portable with Base Unit, using Bane-Clene
Preface® Pre-Spray Traffic Lane Spotter,
LCA®-256 Detergent with Booster™ for Cleaning.


Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog®

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene® Team.





Free Bane-Clene Information Package

Bane-Clene Paper CatalogFree packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail.

You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form.




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Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Professional Telephone Courtesy for Carpet Cleaning Companies



Telephone Etiquette and Courtesy in the Carpet Cleaning Business

Proper business use of a telephone



The cleaning community has many qualified “dirt busters”, but lacks professionalism in answering telephone inquiries. Growth and success comes to those who have trained, knowledgeable people answer their telephones and even in the most difficult economy, these experts will schedule many more appointments than competitors who use voice mail or an answering service.

“He’s in the rest room.” "He hasn’t come in yet this morning.” “He’s playing golf today.” or “She doesn’t want to talk to anyone today.” These are all sure fire ways to offend a caller or make the person being called look bad. The only acceptable statements a telephone receptionist should make are: “He’s out of the office,” “She’s on another line,” or “She’s away from her desk.” always followed by, “May I take a message or could someone else help you?”

Do not ask who is calling! The epitome of being offensive is the person who screens a call by saying, “May I tell him who’s calling?” and then doesn’t give the name of the caller to the person being called. Even more insulting is to come back on the line and say, “He just stepped out of his office, may I take a message.” If a caller chooses to wait on the line for someone, they should not be left on “hold” indefinitely. An occasional inquiry to see if they would like to continue to wait or perhaps leave a message, is proper telephone procedure.

These days, callers are treated to impersonal telephone equipment, endless menus of computerized choices and then lengthy hold-time before they ever get to speak to a real, live person. A little warmth by a real person can do wonders for customer relations. And customers are not the only beneficiaries to good telephone manners. Vendors especially appreciate being treated with respect and their goodwill is important to the success of any company. Sales people who call may have a need for carpet, upholstery or hard-floor care at their home or place of business and may refer you to their friends and neighbors. Be courteous!

Some telephone tips for carpet cleaning companies:

  • Do not allow a business phone to ring more than three times. Most people hang up if the phone doesn’t get answered after five or six rings. The longer the phone rings, the more irritated the customer beomes.
  • Put on a smile before placing or answering a phone call - have a positive attitude.
  • Don’t call or answer the phone when your mouth is full of food, drink or chewing gum.
  • Remember - your voice on the phone is sometimes the only impression of your company a caller will get.
  • Have a pen or pencil and paper ready in case you need to take notes and to help you remember their name.
  • Identify your company by name and thank your customer for calling you.
  • Adding your own name when you answer the phone is a nice gesture.
  • The phone must take precedence over paper work. Stop what you are doing and give the caller your undivided attention.
  • Don’t rush callers. Their questions are very important to them.
  • Don’t be too busy to be friendly.
  • Don’t leave callers “hanging on hold.” A return call is preferred.
  • When taking a customer off of hold, thank the caller to show that their time is respected.
  • Always return phone calls if a return call has been promised, preferably the same day.
  • Utilize common courtesies such as, “May I please schedule an appointment for you?” or “Thank you for choosing to call us.”
  • Never say “I don’t know” when talking with someone on the phone. If you don’t know, tell them you’ll get someone that has the answer or tell them “I’ll check on that for you.” and call them back as soon as possible.
  • Of course, slang, swear words, offensive words, racist words, etc. don’t belong on a business phone - even if the call is personal in nature. Words can come back to bite you.
  • At the end of the call, do not hang up the phone without a positive closure such as “Thank you for calling” or “Have a Good Day.”

Additional Carpet Cleaning Company Information:





Free Bane-Clene Information Package

Bane-Clene Paper CatalogFree packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail.

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Copyright: Bane-Clene® Corp.

Date Published: August 14, 2019

Date Modified: August 14, 2019



Friday, August 09, 2019

BECOMING AN EXPERT


When you are talking to potential customers, they want to deal with an expert. They will want to work with you if you know your company’s products and services inside and out and they will work with someone who can solve their particular problems and needs.

What does it take to become such an expert?

It means you need to learn everything about the product and services that you offer. Study the philosophy and background of the company that provides your products and the equipment you use. Take time to know the background and history of how they were developed and designed.

Sound technical knowledge is always helpful and useful in advising a customer. This knowledge will lend interest and value to your presentation. Knowledge can be obtained in many ways - industry related seminars, training schools and publications to name but a few. When you are well informed, you will be viewed as an expert and someone worth listening to. In this way, you have become such an expert.

Related Information and Articles:

Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog®

Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/.

Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com.

The Bane-Clene® Team.





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Bane-Clene Paper CatalogFree packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail.

You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form.




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Wednesday, August 07, 2019

SLATE - Properties, Advantages, Disadvantages, Sealing, Do’s and Don’ts in Maintenance, Cleaning, Color Enhancing, Shining



Slate flooring image

How to Clean, Seal and Maintain Slate Tile Floors




Slate must be sealed to prevent or minimize staining. Leaving slate untreated will prevent complete removal of stains.

Properties of Slate Stone Tile:

  • Composition of slate: Mainly grains of mica and quartz, plus smaller amounts of chlorite, hematite and other minerals.
  • Slate is a fine grained metamorphic rock formed by the metamorphism of shale and clay under lower pressures and temperatures.
  • Formed from clays, slate is layered and compressed at the bottom of lakes.
  • Slate stone is a very dense, soft, easily scratched natural stone.
  • Unlike marble and limestone, slate is not sensitive to acids.
  • Most slate is gray to black, but the rock may be red or purple, depending on its mineral content.
  • Vermont type slate is typically smoother, denser, one color (red, green, black, blue).
  • Indian and Chinese slates are dense and soft, of all colors and variegated colors.
  • Brazilian slate is typically dense and hard, interesting colors and patterns of color.
  • Some Indian and Chinese slates will flake and powder from foot traffic.

Advantages of Slate Tile:

  • Slate creates a very natural and beautiful finish to any wall or floor.
  • Slate is very stain resistant except to some foods.
  • which tends to split into sheet-like (cleavage planes) structures formed in response to differential stress.

Disadvantages and Shortcomings of Slate Tile:

  • Slate has two lines of breakability - cleavage & grain.
  • Slate has a hardness of 6 on the MOH Scale, making it easily scratched. The hardest mineral, at 10, is diamond. The softest mineral, at 1, is talc.
  • Some black and brown slates (if unsealed) can lose color from aggressive cleaning.
  • Often containing iron, the red coloration seen in some slate is from the rusting of the iron. This will continue to worsen if not treated with a high quality, long lasting water repellant.
  • Slate has low to medium absorption of oils and other liquids and should be sealed with an oil-repellant penetrating sealer to prevent staining and reduce soiling.
  • The surface of slate is generally uneven and cleft planes can spall, due to the cleaving of the stone along its layers.

  • Slate flooring image
    Slate flooring image
  • The cleft surface, exposed when the layers of slate are separated, will easily collect grout at installation and trap dirt with improper maintenance.
  • Because of the cleft planes and strong possibility of spalling, it should never be cleaned at pressures above 800 PSI and then only if the grout is in good condition.
  • Some slates may be quite hard, but have a soft spot that can powder out.
  • For the first three months after installation, some small pieces may flake or break off of the tiles. This is called “spalling,” and is a natural process that occurs as the slate gets used to the new environment.

Where Slate Can be Used:

  • Slate can be used in fireplace surrounds, floors, countertops, backsplashes, showers, mudrooms and exterior walkways.
  • Slate can be used effectively outdoors as well as indoors.
  • Higher absorbency varieties are not suitable for exterior areas in freezing climates.

What Sealers Can be Used to Protect Slate Against Stains?:

  • Some of these slates are porous and will absorb moisture, and these slates may also absorb stains. Therefore, it is important to seal your slate on a yearly basis to prevent staining. Test your slate to see if it is porous by pouring water on its surface. If the water leaves a dark area after 10 minutes, your slate needs to be sealed. If the stone does not change color, it does not require sealing.
  • StoneTech™ Bullet Proof™ water-based stone sealer is recommended for any absorbent slate.
  • (Test slate with water drops. Bullet Proof is a water based sealer that must be able penetrate the stone to seal properly. Therefore, the slate must be able to absorb a water drop in 3 seconds. If the slate is not sufficiently absorbent, use solvent-based Impregnator Pro™ or Sta-Clene®.
  • Enhancer Pro™ gives slate a beautiful ‘wet’ look that does not cause a glossy built up finish. Many people make the mistake of applying heavy waxes or floor finishes that rob the slate of its natural beauty and slip resistance. NEVER use enhancing sealers or topical sealers in a shower stall!
  • High Gloss Finishing Sealer for Stone can also be used where a glossy finish is desired (interior only).

What are the DO’s and DON’Ts of Slate Tile Care?

  • DO use rugs or mats to protect floor from heavy foot traffic because slate scratches easily.
  • DO use felt pads on chair legs to avoid scratching.
  • DO carry furniture when moving across the room, instead of sliding
  • DO apply sealer once a year
  • DO clean up spills immediately to minimize damage to your stone.
  • DO use trivets or mats under hot dishes and cookware.
  • DO use place mats under china, ceramics, silver and other objects that can scratch your stone’s surface.
  • DO use coasters under glasses, especially if they contain alcohol or citrus juices.
  • DO clean surfaces regularly with StoneTech Revitalizer™ Cleaner & Protector.
  • DON’T wait to clean up spills.
  • DON’T use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub cleaners.
  • DON’T use vinegar, bleach, ammonia or other general-purpose cleaners.
  • DON’T use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers.
  • DON’T use a product containing vinegar, lemon or bleach
  • DON’T use cleaners not specifically formulated for stone.
  • DON’T use scouring powders and abrasives because they will scratch the surface.
  • DON’T move furniture across the floor without a protector underneath.
  • DON’T use a vacuum cleaner that has a beater bar.
  • DON’T clean at high pressures.

How to Properly Clean Slate:

For cleaning of grease, oil, dirt, dry soil and soap scum on slate:

  1. Mask off and protect any baseboards or adjacent areas to avoid splashing and overspray onto surfaces not intended to be treated.
  2. Sweep or dust mop loose dirt and debris.
  3. Strip off all topical finishes such as waxes and coatings.
  4. Prepare a solution of StoneTech Klenz-All™ mixed with warm or hot water as suggested below:
  5. Medium Duty Usage - Mix 1 part KlenzAll to 4 parts of water.
  6. Heavy Duty Usage - Mix 1 part KlenzAll to 2 parts of water.
  7. Apply KlenzAll using a low-pressure chemical-resistant sprayer, sponge or mop.
  8. Agitate well using a stiff nylon bristle Grout Line Pivoting Brush, stiff bristle push broom or a weighted buffer at 110 lbs.-140 lbs., 175 rpm, fitted with a scrub brush attachment. Test first, in an inconspicuous area, to ensure that the slate surface is not being damaged.
  9. Rinse well with clean water and mop, sponge or wet vacuum to remove the remaining cleaning solution. A hard surface extraction wand and portable or truck mounted extraction machine may be used.
  10. Repeat the rinsing and wet vacuum process to ensure that all dirt, soil and cleaner residue have been removed.
  11. To remove deep or stubborn oil stains not completely removed by KlenzAll, let the surface dry and use StoneTech Oil Stain Remover:
    1. Apply a ¼ inch thick coat of Oil Stain Remover to the oil stained area. Ensure that Oil Stain Remover covers an area 1 inch to 2 inches beyond the stained area for the purpose of containment.
    2. Allow 2-3 days for the Oil Stain Remover to dry to a powder.
    3. Sweep and wipe up dried powder and evaluate the stained area for removal.
    4. Repeat process if needed.
    5. Remove any remaining Oil Stain Remover using mineral spirits.

For removal of efflorescence, grout haze, salts, mineral deposits and all other calcium-based stains (acidic cleaning) from slate:

  1. Test in an inconspicuous area, as some materials are acid sensitive and may etch when acidic cleaners like StoneTech Restore™ are applied.
  2. Mask off and protect any baseboards or adjacent areas to avoid splashing and overspray onto surfaces not intended to be treated. Restore may damage stainless steel and other surfaces.
  3. Sweep or dust mop loose dirt and debris.
  4. Strip off all wax, acrylic, urethane and all topical finishes.
  5. Prepare a solution of Restore™ mixed with warm or hot water as suggested below:
    • Medium Duty Usage - Mix 1 part of Restore to 4 parts of water.
    • Heavy Duty Usage - Mix 1 part of Restore to 1 part of water.
  6. Liberally apply using a low-pressure chemical-resistant sprayer, sponge or mop.
  7. Agitate well using a stiff nylon bristle scrub brush, stiff bristle push broom or a 175 rpm rotary floor machine fitted with a scrub brush attachment. Test first, in an inconspicuous area, to ensure that the slate surface is not being damaged.
  8. Rinse well with clean water and mop, sponge or wet vacuum to remove the remaining solution. A hard surface extraction wand and portable or truck mounted extraction machine may be used.
  9. Repeat the rinsing and wet vacuum process to ensure that all dirt, soil and cleaner residue have been removed. Thoroughly rinse all metal surfaces.

How to Seal & Protect Slate Tile:

Slate stone must be sealed to prevent or minimize staining. Leaving slate untreated may greatly hinder the complete removal of stains in the future. The following suggestions are for sealing the stone and will allow the stone to breathe. Allow new installations to cure for 72 hours prior to applying sealer.

For a natural looking protector on interior and exterior slate (heavy duty protection, water and oil repellency):

  1. Sweep or vacuum all dust, dirt and debris.
  2. Mask off and protect any baseboards or adjacent areas to avoid splashing and overspray onto surfaces not intended to be treated.
  3. Ensure that surface is clean and residue-free.
  4. StoneTech Stone Sealer or Bullet Proof may be applied to damp surfaces one hour after standing water has been removed.
  5. Liberally apply an even coat of sealer using a low-pressure chemical-resistant sprayer, roller or brush.
  6. Allow sealer to penetrate the surface for 20-30 minutes. During this time, distribute excess over entire area to ensure even penetration. Wipe off any remaining sealer prior to drying on the surface.
  7. A second coat may be needed for porous, absorbent surfaces and should be applied 30-40 minutes after initial application as directed above.
  8. A minimum of 30 minutes after final application, wipe entire surface with a towel dampened with sealer to remove any residue and excess sealer, if needed.
  9. A full cure is achieved after 24-72 hours; foot traffic may begin in 6-8 hours. Cover with red rosin paper, if foot traffic must resume before the recommended time periods have passed.
  10. Expected coverage is 600-800 sq. ft. per gallon.
  11. Re-application of Heavy Duty Stone Sealer:
    • A 3-5 year re-application is needed for interior surfaces.
    • A 1-3 year re-application is needed for exterior surfaces.

For a natural looking protector on exterior slate (heavy duty protection, water repellency only):

  1. StoneTech Heavy Duty Exterior Heavy-Duty Stone & Masonry Sealer is a water repellent specially designed for exterior projects such as facades, cladding, pool decks, parking areas and driveways. It is very resistant to chemicals (i.e., chlorine) and to the effects of weather (i.e., ultraviolet light/sunlight, driving water/rain).
  2. Sweep or vacuum all dust, dirt and debris.
  3. Mask off and protect any baseboards or adjacent areas to avoid splashing and overspray onto surfaces not intended to be treated.
  4. Ensure that the surface is clean, dry and residue-free.
  5. Liberally apply an even coat of Heavy Duty Exterior Stone and Masonry Sealer with a brush, paint roller or solvent-resistant low-pressure sprayer.
  6. Allow sealer to penetrate the surface for 15-30 minutes; denser material may require more time for sealer to penetrate. During this time, distribute excess over entire area to ensure even penetration.
  7. Wipe off any remaining sealer prior to drying on the surface.
  8. A second coat may be needed for porous, absorbent surfaces and should be applied one hour after initial application as directed above.
  9. If sealer was not completely wiped off and a residue appears, wipe entire surface with a towel dampened with sealer. Use a white, non-abrasive nylon brush or pad to loosen residue and follow with a clean, white absorbent towel to remove.
  10. Do not walk on surface for at least 4-6 hours. Full cure is achieved in 24-72 hours.
  11. Expected coverage is 600-800 sq. ft. per gallon.
  12. Re-application of Heavy Duty Exterior Stone and Masonry Sealer:
    • A 5-10 year re-application is recommended for exterior surfaces.

For a color enhancing, impregnating (non-topical) protector on interior and exterior surfaces (heavy duty protection, water and oil repellency):

  1. Sweep or vacuum all dust, dirt and debris.
  2. Mask off and protect any baseboards or adjacent areas to avoid splashing and overspray onto surfaces not intended to be treated.
  3. Ensure that surface is clean, dry and residue-free.
  4. Liberally apply an even coat of StoneTech Enhancer Pro™ using a low-pressure solvent-resistant sprayer, roller or brush.
  5. Allow the Enhancer Pro penetrate the surface for 15-30 minutes; denser material may require more time for Enhancer Pro to penetrate.
  6. During this time, distribute excess over entire area to ensure even penetration.
  7. Completely wipe surface dry.
  8. DO NOT ALLOW ENHANCER PRO TO DRY COMPLETELY ON SURFACE! Failure to remove enhancer from the surface may result in a film or residue that may need to be mechanically removed.
  9. A second coat may be needed for porous, absorbent surfaces or if a darker appearance is required and should be applied one hour after initial application as directed above.
  10. A full cure is achieved after 24-72 hours; foot traffic may begin in 6-8 hours.
  11. Cover with red rosin paper, if foot traffic must resume before the recommended time periods have passed.
  12. Expected coverage is 600-800 sq. ft. per gallon.
  13. Re-application of Enhancer Pro:
    • A 3-5 year re-application is needed for interior or exterior surfaces.

For a high gloss, shiny but natural look, topical protector on interior surfaces only, use StoneTech water-based High Gloss Stone Sealer:

  1. Not for exterior use.
  2. Follow label directions.
  3. Thoroughly pre-clean all debris, dirt, oil, grease and general stains from the surface using KlenzAll.
  4. Remove waxes, coatings and paints first with Heavy Duty Coating Stripper.
  5. Allow newly cleaned surface to completely dry prior to applying StoneTech High Gloss Finishing Sealer for Stone.
  6. Mask off and protect any baseboards or adjacent areas to avoid splashing and overspray onto surfaces not intended to be treated.
  7. Apply in air temperatures between 55°F to 80°F and on a cool dry surface.
  8. Liberally apply 2-4 even coats with a natural bristle brush, roller, or paint pad applicator. Do not apply product with a sprayer or sponge. Avoid puddling of liquid during application. Failure to apply a sufficient amount of sealer to the surface may result in an undesirable finish or degradation of the coating. More coats may be applied if desired.
  9. Allow 1-3 hours between coats or until surface is completely dry to the touch.
  10. Surface traffic may begin 12 hours after final application; keep installation dry for a minimum of 12 hours; full cure is achieved in 24-48 hours.
  11. Keep surface clean and dry as finished surfaces may become slippery when wet.
  12. Coverage varies depending on the porosity of the surface, method of application and desired thickness of coating. Approximately 100 to 300 sq. ft. per gallon depending on stone, porosity, texture of surface and method of application.
  13. Re-application of High Gloss Stone Sealer to interior stone:
    • 1-3 years based upon wear.

Maintenance Cleaning of Slate Tile

Highly alkaline, acidic, ammoniated, abrasive cleaners and/or bleach may break down the sealer, adversely affecting repellency and may not be good for the stone. Use a neutral cleaner specially formulated for natural stone.
For routine cleaning with protection (not recommended for lacquered surfaces):
  1. Sweep or dust mop loose dirt and debris.
  2. Prepare a solution of Revitalizer concentrate mixed with warm or hot water as suggested below:
    • Light Duty Usage - 1 part Revitalizer to 4 parts water.
    • Medium Duty Usage/Spray Refill - 1 part Revitalizer to 1 part water.
      (One gallon of concentrate makes up to five gallons of ready-to-use solution.)
  3. Apply the Revitalizer solution using a low-pressure chemical-resistant sprayer, mop, sponge or automatic scrubbing machine.
  4. No rinsing needed.
  5. Or use Revitalizer in a ready-to-use sprayer.
For routine maintenance cleaning:
  1. Sweep or dust mop loose dirt and debris.
  2. Prepare a solution of StoneTech All Purpose Stone & Tile Cleaner concentrate mixed with warm or hot water as suggested below:
    • 2 ounces All Purpose Stone and Tile Cleaner in 1 gallon of water. (Do not mix stronger than 2 ounces to a gallon as a maintenance cleaner. One gallon of concentrate makes 65 gallons of cleaning solution.)
    • Apply the solution using a sponge, mop or automatic scrubbing machine,
      then wipe or rinse off.
    • Or use All Purpose Stone and Tile Cleaner in a ready-to-use sprayer.

Additional Stone, Ceramic and Porcelain Tile & Grout Information:

Products for Cleaning, Polishing, Protecting and Sealing Slate Stone:





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Copyright: Bane-Clene® Corp.

Date Published: August 7, 2019

Date Modified: August 7, 2019