GENERAL INFORMATION 

Slate is a very fine-grained and layered sedimentary rock that can be split into thin sheets. Slate has a great durability and strength. The exclusive black Italian slate used for Fritz Hansen tabletops, radiates a natural beauty with a stunning colour range and unique structure. 

SPECIFICATION

1. Pyrites is a common mineral that often appears in slate. It has a light, golden brass metallic lustre that resembles gold. For this reason, the appearance of pyrites is not accepted as a valid complaint 
2.  The slate that we know is formed 400 million years ago in deep-water along tectonic areas. Colour will vary from charcoal (almost black) to lighter grey nuances and from piece-to-piece different minerals might be visible in the surface – this is what makes the material so appealing to work with. 

MAINTENANCE & CARE

To protect the surface of the tabletop, we recommend you apply Stone Wash (alternatively soap flakes) - a cleansing soap for all-natural stone types. With the use of Stone Wash, the surface will create a layer of protection. Note, that acid can still penetrate depending on how long it stays on the surface. In the unfortunate event of stains, clean with Stone Wash as described below. Leave it in pure form on the whole surface of the table, never only in patches, and you will build up the sheet of protection again. However, eventually any day-to-day use simply contributes to the slate’s patina. 

STONE WASH USER DIRECTIONS 

Apply Stone Wash directly from the bottle on the entire tabletop, including the edges, in an even layer with a lint-free cloth. Let the soap penetrate the stone, wait around 5-10 minutes without the surface drying completely and then wipe off the remaining soap with a wrung-out cloth (lint-free).  
NOTE, make sure all the remaining soap is removed to avoid stripes on the surface. It is important that the entire tabletop is covered during each treatment with Stone Wash to maintain a uniform surface. Repeat the treatment whenever necessary. 

SOAP FLAKES USE DIRECTIONS

 For maintenance using soap flakes use only small, fine flakes that easily dissolves in water. 
Whip up a soapy solution of 2-3 tablespoons of soap flakes per litre of hot water and apply the foam to the tabletop with a soft brush or cloth (lint-free). Leave the foam to work for about 5 minutes without drying out to allow the tabletop to absorb as much soap as possible. Then wipe the tabletop with a clean, damp cloth (lint-free).  
NOTE, it is important that the entire tabletop is covered each time in order to maintain a uniform surface. Repeat this treatment regularly as needed. 

STAIN REMOVAL 

For purification of very heavy stains use Stone Wash directly from the dispenser and follow the directions above. 

1. ACID Slate is not resistant to acids. If acid has stained your table top the only thing you can do is treat the spot locally with Stone Wash until the matt and whitish spot vanishes, it is not guaranteed it will go away. 
2. Wet items like vases or glasses can create stains on the tabletop. Always use coasters & trivets and a dry cloth to wipe off any remaining liquids. Never leave any wet areas, as they will soak in to the stone and leave a stain. 

LUSTRE 

If you prefer a deep black lustre of the slate tabletop, you should apply a mixture of 1 part of linseed oil and 3 parts of white spirit to the tabletop with a clean, dry cloth. Leave the mixture for about 5-10 minutes and then wipe off with a clean, dry cloth cloth (lint-free). 

NOTE, Once the mixture of linseed oil and white spirit has been applied, the look of the slate top will be changed permanently, and it is no longer possible to treat the top with a soap solution. 

WARNING: Cloths used for linseed oil may ignite spontaneously after use, therefore, NEVER throw used cloths with linseed oil directly into a bin or any other inflammable containers. For safe disposal it is recommended to put the cloth in a solution of water and detergent and into an inflammable container.