Drying time before sealing slate. Please HELP! DIY project gone bananas...?

Question

I really hope someone can give me advice. I took off 3 days to get my slate tile floors stripped and sealed (with Aquamix Seal and Finish Low Sheen - Its a Coating Sealer that can "breathe.") The stripping took a full 2 days until 2:30 in the morning. I only have till tomorrow evening until the kiddos will be running around, so I have to get this done, and I have to be at work at 6am tomorrow.

So, here's the question. I've read the recommended drying time on slate is 24 hours before sealing. I'd really like to start sealing at 10pm tonight so my husband and I can catch a nap before I get up at 4:30. If 24 hours is recommended, is 20hours o.k? Or, am I screwing myself and jeopardizing the whole project?

We have the heat on in the house (windows shut because, of course, its hazy today). And a ceiling fan on. I live in the NorthEast if that helps w/ climate questions (Pennsylvania).

Please help! I'm panicking! Thank you in advance.

Additional Details

Thanks. I found 2 box fans downstairs I'm going to turn on too. (Its 1000sq feet).

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

you should be ok- turn the heat up a little- over 70 and it will dry a little faster- leave the fans on also- moving air will help

Source(s):

years of exp

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

Thank you! I needed some reassurance from someone who knows what the heck they are doing. Floor seems to be drying well... we'll see once the sealer is on I guess!

Answer 2

DON'T PANNIC GET A HAIR DRIER GET IT AS DRY AS POSIBLE AND SEAL IT YOU WILL BE FINE, BUT SOME TIME IN THE FUTURE PUT ANOTHER COAT NO FOR ADDED PROTECTION. SLATE IS VERY EXPENSIVE.( FBXMCGYVER OUT.)