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When working with slate or tile for a fireplace hearth, it is important to consider how the material will look against the adjacent flooring. If the slate butts up against hardwood flooring, a grout line between the slate and wood flooring often looks best. If the slate is surrounded by carpet, eliminate the grout line.
Be sure to seal the slate with a grout-release sealer before grouting it. This clear chemical helps minimize grout messes. It is hard to grout slate because the surface of the stone is uneven. The thin layers of minerals in slate that create its gorgeous texture are the bane of tile setters, who struggle to clean all grout from the surface.
The slate surface will be ready to walk on about 48 hours after the grout has been installed. It is best to keep the grout damp during this time. The presence of water will help strengthen it so it can be as durable as the slate.
