All You Need to Know About Maintaining the Beauty and Longevity of Your Natural Stone Surfaces.
Natural stone makes a wonderful addition to any home—its timeless elegance complements myriads of architectural styles, and its durability allows it to withstand the rigors of (quite literally) any household. It is also an expensive investment and not one that most homeowners take lightly, so it is of the utmost importance that the proper care and maintenance be administered to these materials. When it comes to maintenance, it is vital to understand the essential role sealing plays in prolonging the stone’s life and appearance.
Why Seal Natural Stone?
The natural stone, such as granite, marble, or limestone, is naturally porous. It can take in water, oils, and other things without a protective seal, which can lead to the following:
- Stains and discoloration from spills or exposure to the elements.
- Odors and smells, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, that the
unsealed stone can hold.
- Dullness and loss of shine from daily use.
- Serious structural issues in the stone, leading to breakdowns, if
any really extreme weather hits.
Even plain tap water, with all of its added minerals and chlorine, can harm unsealed stone. Sealing is a stone surface must.
What Does a Stone Sealer Do?
Today’s sealers are made to seep into the stone’s surface and form an invisible barrier that:
- Makes water, oil, and other fluids bead up and roll off.
- Lets the stone exhale any moisture that might be inside.
- Preserves the stone’s look and feel as if nothing has been applied.
The Science Behind It: As the sealer sinks in, it leaves a protective layer filled with a coating that keeps out water and other fluids without changing the appearance or texture of the stone.
Limitations of Stone Sealers
Understanding what sealers cannot do is fundamental:
- They cannot prevent scratches or etching from acids.
- They are not absolute barriers against liquids and need quick cleanup.
- They cannot prevent dirt from getting on the surface, and they do not add shine.
- They require maintenance and regular reapplication.
Choosing the Right Sealer
Choosing the top sealer relies on:
- Stone Sort: The different stone types require different sealers.
- Place: An outdoor sealer must stand up to various demands an outdoor space puts on it, from useful to aesthetic.
- Action: Outdoor spaces can also be high-use spaces.
- Finish: How the sealer makes the stone look can and should depend on where the stone is and what’s around it.