Before and after results of exterior slate tile cleaning and sealing with a premium enhancing sealer in Austin, Texas.
Exterior slate tile before service, showing faded color and a dry, unprotected surface.
The same slate tile after deep cleaning and sealing, with rich, vibrant color and long-lasting protection.
Project Overview: Restoring Washed-Out Exterior Slate Tile
This case study highlights a recent exterior slate tile cleaning and sealing project completed by Santa Fe Floor Cleaning and Stone Care in the greater Austin, Texas area.
The homeowner contacted us because their exterior slate tiles looked faded, dry, and washed out from prolonged exposure to sun, moisture, and foot traffic. The stone had lost its natural color depth and no longer had any meaningful protection against the elements.
Our goal was to deep clean the slate and apply a high-quality enhancing sealer that would both protect the stone and restore the rich, natural tones of the slate’s mineral structure.
The Condition of the Slate Before Service
Faded, Dry, and Unprotected Stone
Before service, the slate tiles showed clear signs of wear:
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Washed-out and dull appearance
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Dry, chalky surface texture
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Embedded soils and organic buildup
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No active sealer remaining
Exterior slate is especially vulnerable in Central Texas due to intense sun, rain, and temperature swings. Without proper cleaning and sealing, the stone can degrade faster and lose its visual appeal.
Our Exterior Slate Cleaning and Sealing Process
Step 1: In-Person Evaluation and Price Estimate
We began with an on-site evaluation to inspect the slate’s condition, identify buildup, and confirm the appropriate cleaning and sealing method. A clear price estimate was provided before any work began.
Step 2: Furniture Removal and Dry Soil Removal
All outdoor furniture was carefully moved out of the work area. Loose dirt, sand, and debris were removed to prevent unnecessary abrasion during the wet cleaning process.
Step 3: Alkaline Stone Cleaning with CRB Machine
We applied a professional-grade alkaline stone cleaning solution and agitated the surface using a CRB (counter-rotating brush) machine. This step safely broke down embedded soils without damaging the slate.
Step 4: Hot Water Rinse and Extraction
The stone was thoroughly rinsed and extracted using our truck-mounted hot water extraction system with an SX-12 rotary extraction tool. This removed suspended soils and cleaning residue, leaving the slate clean and ready for sealing.
Step 5: Enhancing Sealer Application
Once the slate was fully dry, we applied 511 Seal & Enhance, a high-quality stone enhancing sealer designed for exterior natural stone. This step enriched the slate’s natural mineral tones, created a deeper, wet-look appearance, and added a layer of protection against moisture intrusion and staining.
As the Natural Stone Institute explains:
“Sealants do not make stone stain-proof, but they can slow down the rate of absorption, allowing more time to clean up spills before staining occurs.”
This sealing process not only improves appearance but also helps protect exterior slate from weather exposure and everyday wear common in the Austin climate.
The Results: Deep, Vibrant, and Protected Slate
Slate Tile After Cleaning and Sealing
The transformation was dramatic. After sealing, the slate tiles displayed:
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Rich, deep, natural color
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Enhanced contrast between mineral layers
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A clean, uniform appearance
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Added protection against weather and wear
The stone now looks vibrant and refreshed while being properly sealed for exterior conditions.
Why Homeowners in Austin Trust Santa Fe Floor Cleaning and Stone Care
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Specialized stone-safe cleaning methods
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Professional-grade equipment and sealers
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Experience with exterior stone in Central Texas conditions
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Honest evaluations and clear expectations
We focus on restoring and protecting natural stone — not using shortcuts that can damage it.
Need Exterior Slate Cleaning and Sealing in Austin, TX?
If your exterior slate, stone, or tile surfaces look faded or unprotected, Santa Fe Floor Cleaning and Stone Care can help.
We proudly serve Austin and surrounding areas with professional stone cleaning, sealing, honing, and restoration services.
Complete Stone, Tile, and Surface Care Services in Austin, TX
Natural stone and tile surfaces require different care depending on the material, finish, and exposure to wear or weather. In addition to exterior slate cleaning and sealing, Santa Fe Floor Cleaning and Stone Care provides professional solutions for a wide range of surfaces throughout the Austin area.
Our services include deep cleaning, honing, polishing, sealing, and restoration for travertine, marble, limestone, slate, tile and grout, and other natural stone surfaces. We also offer professional upholstry and carpet cleaning, including treatment for pet urine stains and odors using enzyme-based solutions designed to break down and eliminate odor-causing residues.
Each surface is evaluated individually so the proper method and products are used—whether that means restoring dull stone, removing embedded soils, improving slip resistance, or applying long-lasting protective sealers. Our goal is not just to clean, but to extend the life, appearance, and performance of your floors and surfaces.
If your home has multiple types of stone or tile, we can address them all with a single, coordinated approach—ensuring consistent results and proper care across every surface.