Priory Polishes Slate Blacking – Black Slate Restorer

Description

Priory Polishes Slate Blacking is a specialist black slate restorer designed to revive faded, dull and worn black slate surfaces. It is particularly popular for antique black slate clock cases, but can also be used to restore slate hearths, fire surrounds, slate tiles, statues and other decorative slate objects.

The blacking restores depth and colour to tired-looking slate, helping to bring a faded surface back to a rich black appearance. Once dry, the surface can be gently buffed to create anything from a softer finish to a higher shine.

Slate Blacking is available in 150ml and 500ml sizes, making it suitable for smaller restoration projects as well as larger hearths and slate surfaces.

• Why Choose Slate Blacking?
• What Can Slate Blacking Be Used On?
• Slate Clock Restoration
• Slate Hearths & Fire Surrounds
• Black Marble, Statues & Tiles
• Preparing the Slate
• How to Use Slate Blacking
• Creating a Matt or High-Shine Finish
• Protecting the Finished Slate
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Please Note
• Health & Safety
• Safety Data Sheet

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Why Choose Slate Blacking?

• Restores faded and dull black slate
• Ideal for antique slate clock cases
• Suitable for slate hearths and fire surrounds
• Can be used on slate tiles and decorative slate objects
• Suitable for black marble and certain other dark stone surfaces
• Can help disguise light marks and areas of uneven colour
• Builds colour and sheen with additional coats
• Can be buffed to achieve a higher shine
• Can be finished with a light coat of wax for additional protection
• Easy to apply with a lint-free cloth or sponge

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Customer Examples using Slate Blacking:

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What Can Slate Blacking Be Used On?

Priory Polishes Slate Blacking is particularly useful when restoring traditional and antique black slate surfaces, including:

• Black slate clock cases
• Slate mantel clocks
• Slate hearths
• Slate fire surrounds
• Slate fireplaces
• Slate tiles
• Slate statues
• Black marble
• Other suitable decorative black slate objects

It is especially useful where the original black appearance of a slate item has become faded, grey, dull or marked through age and use.

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Slate Clock Restoration

Slate Blacking is particularly well suited to restoring antique black slate clocks. Old slate clock cases can become dull over time, particularly where they have been exposed to heat, dust, grease and repeated cleaning.

For the best results, remove dirt and old surface grime before applying the blacking. On a clock case, take care around brass fittings, glass and other areas that should not be blackened. Where practical, removing the movement and working carefully on the separate slate components can make preparation and application easier.

For a complete step-by-step guide, see our How to Restore a Black Slate Clock guide.

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Slate Hearths & Fire Surrounds

Slate Blacking can be used to revive faded slate hearths, fireplaces and fire surrounds. It can darken grey or tired-looking slate and restore a deeper black appearance.

Thorough preparation is particularly important on hearths, as they can accumulate soot, grease, wax, paint marks and general household dirt. Clean the slate thoroughly before applying the blacking and make sure it is completely dry.

Slate Blacking is intended for indoor use and is not designed to provide a waterproof or weather-resistant finish. It should not be used on areas that are routinely exposed to water or damp conditions.

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Black Marble, Statues & Tiles

As well as slate, Priory Polishes Slate Blacking can be used to revive suitable black marble and decorative slate objects, including statues and tiles.

Because natural stone can vary considerably in colour, porosity and previous treatment, always carry out a test on a small, inconspicuous area before treating the whole surface.

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Preparing the Slate

Good preparation is essential for achieving an even finish. Slate should be clean, dry and free from grease, dirt and unsuitable existing finishes before applying the blacking.

For general cleaning, use white spirit with a clean cloth. On suitably robust slate, fine wire wool can be used carefully to help remove stubborn dirt and grime.

After cleaning, wipe the surface thoroughly with a clean cloth while it is still wet with the cleaning solvent, then allow the slate to dry completely. Leave for a couple of hours before applying the Slate Blacking.

If the slate has an existing sealant or finish, this may prevent the blacking from penetrating and producing an even result. Test first before proceeding.

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How to Use Priory Polishes Slate Blacking

1. Shake Well

Shake the bottle thoroughly before use to ensure the product is properly mixed.

2. Clean the Slate

Remove dirt, grease and grime using white spirit. Fine wire wool can be used carefully where necessary to assist with cleaning.

3. Allow the Surface to Dry

Wipe the slate thoroughly with a clean cloth and allow it to dry completely. Leave the surface for a couple of hours before applying the blacking.

4. Protect Areas That Should Not Be Blackened

When restoring clocks or decorative pieces, protect brass, inlay, glass and other surrounding areas where necessary.

5. Apply the First Coat

Apply Slate Blacking with a clean lint-free cloth or sponge. A small soft brush can also be useful for getting into corners and detailed areas.

Do not rub the product into the slate. Instead, apply it evenly across the surface and avoid leaving heavy patches or excessive product in one area.

6. Apply Additional Coats

A minimum of two coats is recommended. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.

Additional thin coats can be used where greater depth of colour or a more polished appearance is required.

7. Buff the Slate

Once completely dry, gently buff the surface with a soft duster or clean soft cloth. Buffing can increase the sheen and help produce a more polished appearance.

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Creating a Matt or High-Shine Finish

The final appearance can be adjusted according to the number of coats and how the surface is finished.

• Softer finish: Apply the product evenly and leave with minimal buffing.
• More depth and sheen: Apply additional thin coats, allowing each to dry thoroughly.
• Higher shine: Once dry, buff the surface carefully with a soft duster or cloth.

Because slate varies from piece to piece, always test the finish first on a small inconspicuous area.

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Protecting the Finished Slate

Once the Slate Blacking is fully dry, a light coat of Priory wax polish can be applied for additional protection and to help create an attractive, even sheen.

Wax will not make the surface waterproof, so Slate Blacking and wax should not be regarded as a waterproofing system. Areas exposed to regular dampness or water may require maintenance and reapplication. Do not apply the wax if near a heat source, just buff the slate to a nice sheen.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slate Blacking used for?

Slate Blacking is used to restore and revive faded black slate. It is particularly suitable for antique slate clocks, slate hearths, fire surrounds, fireplaces, tiles and decorative slate objects.

Can Slate Blacking be used on a slate clock?

Yes. It is particularly well suited to restoring antique black slate clock cases and can help bring back their original depth of colour and sheen.

Can Slate Blacking be used on a slate hearth?

Yes. It can be used to darken and revive a suitable slate hearth, provided the surface is properly cleaned and prepared first.

Can it be used on a fire surround?

Yes. Slate Blacking can be used on suitable indoor slate fire surrounds. Clean away dirt and grease thoroughly before application and always test first.

Will Slate Blacking make grey slate black?

It can darken suitable untreated grey or faded slate and restore a richer black appearance. Results depend on the condition, colour and previous treatment of the slate, so testing a small area first is recommended.

Can Slate Blacking be used on black marble?

Yes, it can be used on suitable black marble surfaces. As natural stone varies, always test an inconspicuous area before treating the entire surface.

How many coats of Slate Blacking should I apply?

A minimum of two coats is recommended. Additional coats can be applied where required to build colour and increase the sheen, provided each coat is allowed to dry thoroughly first.

Will Slate Blacking give a shiny finish?

It can. The finish becomes more pronounced with additional coats and careful buffing. For a slightly duller appearance, use fewer coats and less buffing.

Will Slate blackening darken my greenish slate black?

If the slate has aged with a green tinge, you will need to clean this off before applying. As long as there is no sealant on the Hearth beforehand this should darken the piece.

Is Slate Blacking waterproof?

No. It is intended for indoor use and is not designed to be waterproof. It can wear away over time if regularly exposed to damp or wet conditions.

Can I wax over Slate Blacking?

Yes. Once the blacking is completely dry, a light coat of suitable Priory wax polish can be applied for additional protection and sheen. The wax itself should not be considered waterproof.

Can I use Slate Blacking on slate with an existing finish?

Existing sealers, waxes or other finishes may affect the result. Where an existing finish is present, test a small inconspicuous area first to check compatibility and appearance.

How do I restore an antique slate clock?

For detailed instructions, see our How to Restore a Black Slate Clock guide, which covers cleaning, applying Slate Blacking, buffing and finishing the clock case.

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Please Note

• For indoor use only.
• Not intended for areas that are regularly wet or damp.
• Always test on a small, inconspicuous area before full application.
• Make sure the slate is thoroughly clean and dry before application.
• Existing sealers, waxes or finishes may affect the final result.
• Protect surrounding brass, glass, fabric and other areas from accidental application.
• Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying another.
• Keep the product out of reach of children.

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Health & Safety

Priory Polishes Slate Blacking is not classified as hazardous. Nevertheless, normal good handling practices should be followed.

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
• Ensure good ventilation while working.
• Wear suitable protective gloves and safety glasses.
• Wear suitable protective clothing where appropriate.
• Do not eat, drink or smoke while using the product.
• Wash hands after handling.
• Store in a cool, well-ventilated place.
• Avoid unnecessary release into the environment.

If the product gets into the eyes, rinse with water. If it comes into contact with skin, wash with plenty of water. If swallowed and you feel unwell, seek medical advice.

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Safety Data Sheet

View the Priory Polishes Slate Blacking Safety Data Sheet