Refurbishing a Slate Hearth

[str]

We have a slate hearth that has been marked by soot/water blowing down the chimney, prior to it having a cowl fitted.

Someone had told me that i can bring back the surface finish using wd40 and wire wool - I obviously dont want to damage the surface any further!

Does anyone have any other suggestions/proven ways to renew the finish?

cheers

 

[ladylola]

I'd start with something a little less harsh first.
I've heard that a good method is to sprinkle with flour and leave for about 15minutes or so and then to use warm water and something like flash with a nylon scourer to clean the surface.
If that doesn't work I'd try an ammonia solution again with the scourer.
To finish off wipe the slate over with a mix of linseed oil and terpentine and buff it up .