How to clean rust off of slate hearth?

[blissbaby]

Have found some slate (at least that's what I think it is) in the basement of the house I have just bought. Would love to use it for a hearth for a wood-burning stove that I'm getting. Only thing is, the slate has obviously been used as a shelf for loads of old, rusty tins and as a result, is heavily marked by same. Can the stains be removed and if so, how?
Thanks very much for any advice - it'd save me a load of cash!
Jac

[Simon Site Manager]

Hi Blissbaby,

You could send it off for polishing or try it yourself. You will need some cutting compound such as 'T-Cut' and a polishing pad to go on an angle grinder. Then follow the instructions on the tin.

S

[blissbaby]

Hi
Have got everything but the polishing pad so will buy one and give it a go!
Thanks very much. Nice little Sunday afternoon venture for me.
Thanks again -
Jac

[James Morris]

Hi Jac,

How did you get on?

Making a paste of white wine vinegar and bicarb of soda should clean off most marks if they are still there.

Good luck.

James

[blissbaby]

Hi All
Tried white wine vinegar and bicarb of soda - but not much of a difference I'm afraid. Same with the T-cut, so reverted to angle grinder and elbow grease... looks fantastic. Just treated it with veg oil (as recommended by the man who put in the new M/F stove) and I'm really pleased with the look (and the money we saved).
Thanks for all your advice!
BB

[Simon Site Manager]

Nice one Bliss, glad your a happy Gal!

S