Why Seal Natural Stone?
Natural stone has been used for thousands of years for domestic and commercial building applications. It is still as popular as ever these days but due varying levels of porosity it can have its drawbacks.
Natural stone covers a range of stone types - we have listed the most popular below:
- Sandstone
- Limestone
- Slate
- Terracotta
- Marble
- Granite
Sandstone is probably seen more than most as it is widely used on patios and driveways. Relatively soft compared to the others listed it is a widely used building product as it easy to work with and shape. Historically it has been used throughout history in the construction of churches, temples, statues, cathedrals, homes and other public buildings.
The difficulty with natural stone and especially the softer varieties such as sandstone and limestone is the levels of porosity. Water retained in natural stone creates problems as it will attract the growth of algae, mould and moss very quickly if left untreated. Salt, oil and grease deposits can quickly get absorbed into the capillaries of the natural stone resulting in stains that are hard to remove.
How to seal Natural Stone?
Most people prefer to keep their natural stone surfaces looking 'natural' and try to avoid dramatically changing the appearance of the surface. To avoid changing the original colouring and appearance of any natural stone we always recommend using high quality, clear impregnating natural stone sealer. Although topical sealers can be used, they tend to sit on the surface of the natural stone and can darken the look. Impregnating sealers work very well by being absorbed into the natural stone and blocking the capillaries that would normally absorb water abd other liquids such as oil.
The impregnating sealers will also make natural stone resistant to attack by acids. Many types of natural stone have a high calcite content. Marble, Granite, limestone and travertine will soon react with acidic substances on contact, which can break down the surface and create marks or possibly deep 'pits' over time. This process is recognised as 'acid etching'. This is widespread and many people are not aware that everyday items such as cola, wine, vinegar, lemon juice and milk, can quickly cause damage to these varieties of natural stone.
See the benefits section on this website to see why there are many good reasons for sealing natural stone surfaces. Our natural stone sealers provide long lasting protection to granite, marble, sandstone, limestone, natural slate, travertine and terracotta. These solvent free sealers can be used on interior and exterior surfaces. As they are clear impregnating sealers they will not change the look or colour of the natural stone surface when they are applied.
If you are thinking of sealing a natural stone surface in your home and would like to protect it with a quality sealer but would like to know more before proceeding, please call 01268 722500 or fill in our online enquiry form.
