So you’ve done your research and learned that many sources suggest sealing your natural stone while others state that not all stone needs to be sealed. What now? Should you or shouldn’t you seal your stone? It’s simple, to maximize protection all natural stone should be sealed. The worst that can happen is that your stone may not be very porous so it only absorbs a very little amount of sealer, but that means it’s still sealed!
Keep reading as we break down a few ways to decide how and when you should seal your stone.
1. What type of stone do you have?
All natural stones are not created equal. How porous your stone is and how quickly it will absorb a liquid is called the absorption coefficient. This coefficient is important when you are choosing your sealant. Typically, granite has a higher absorption coefficient than a polished marble. Limestone can be extremely absorbent. The higher the coefficient the more difficult it can be to seal your stone adequately.
2. How is your stone finished?
The finish that you have chosen for your stone will absolutely affect its absorption coefficient. If your surface is polished this will decrease the absorption coefficient, but if you have chosen a honed finish, for example, your stone will be much more absorbent.
3. Where is your stone located?
Natural stones have become so popular recently that this question becomes incredibly important. Perhaps you have a natural stone flooring, or your stone product is located in a bathroom, kitchen, foyer, or lobby. The location of your natural stone takes into consideration the chances that is it vulnerable to spills and stains. Water, oil, heavy traffic, pets, etc. all need to be taken into consideration when you choose a proper sealing product. For example, if you have a marble countertop in your kitchen you would want to choose a sealant that has an oil repellent in it, or if you are dealing with natural stone in the foyer of your home you would only need a water repellent sealer.
4. How do you maintain your stone?
Current maintenance is another important factor to think about when choosing your sealer. Is your stone exposed to harsh cleaning chemicals not intended for natural stones? Is maintenance neglected completely? A stone foyer floor located in a home that doesn’t receive much traffic generally does not a need a daily cleaning, and this only needs a water repellent sealer. Make sure to take into consideration the current state of your stone when choosing your sealer.