Top 5 Sealers For Stonework
Sealers are critically important for protecting stonework. They cover a range of issues with different types of stone in different environments. It’s worth checking out the best sealers for your stonework, because they’ll reduce maintenance and repair costs as well as making sure your natural stone always looks its best.
Sealers basics
Sealers (aka sealants or impregnators) provide stone surfaces with an invisible protective barrier that prevents moisture penetration into the subsurface of the stone. This prevents staining and makes cleaning easier. The most common indoor culprits are tea, coffee, wine, cooking oils, grease & food. In outdoor areas biological agents such as bark, leaves, bird droppings may stain paved areas. The sealers add both protection and appearance, as well as making stone much easier to clean.
Sealers and types of stone
All types of stone benefit from sealers. The different types of stone, however, have different needs.
Note: When applying sealers:
- When using any type of sealer on natural stone, first conduct tests on either a sample piece or a small section of the surface that is out of sight, to see the result. If you’re happy with the effect, you can proceed.
- Prior to applying sealer, thoroughly clean the stonework. The risk is that using a sealer will also seal in any existing blemishes. If the surface is noticeably marked or stained, use a stone cleaner, then wash off the stonework. Be a little patient with this process, because stone will always restore well, given time. It’s well worth the extra effort to clean it scrupulously.
Picking the right sealer
When looking for sealer, the two basic factors are the type of stone and the look you want. All types of stone have preferred sealants, and the different types of sealant on the market today are designed specifically for them. The environment in which the stone is laid and its role in the home define the factors for consideration. Living and dining areas, for example, need full spectrum seals. These are the obvious risk zones for spills and stains. The stonework requires a good all-purpose sealer, with a finish to your taste.
The 5 best types of sealers for stone
Aquamix, a US manufacturer of sealants is an example of a company that offers a range of products to suit different stone types. They also have excellent technical back-up to help achieve optimal results.
It’s worth having a quick look at Aquamix’s products, because they define the range of sealers available, and what they can do for your stonework:
Sealer’s Choice Gold: This is a dedicated maximum stain protector, designed for the typical home environment. It can be used on interior and exterior surfaces and grouting.
Ultra-Solv: Maximum stain protection for high density stone like bluestone.
Enrich ‘N’ Seal: This is a polymer sealer, designed to rejuvenate stone. It darkens and enhances the character of natural stone.
Seal & Finish Low-Sheen: Two products in one, an acrylic indoor/outdoor sealer with added finish. Recommended for slate.
High Gloss Sealer: A high gloss sealer and finish. This sealer is appropriate for many Australian homes, this sealer is unaffected by UV light.
About the Author
Bellstone is a specialist supplier of premium quality natural stone tiles, pavers & roofing slate to architects, landscape architects, builders, renovators and retailers. Our products are independently tested for quality & durability. For more information or to view our products, visit Outdoor Pavers
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StoneTech BPSS12-32 BulletProof Stone Sealer, 1-Quart $34.00 Use on Natural stone such as marble, granite, limestone, bluestone, saltillo, travertine & sandstone. Best suited for the most porous stone surfaces…. |
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WOLF-Garten Outdoor Broom B40M $12.95 The WOLF-Garten outdoor broom attachment is designed for all-around use in both the house and garden. It features tough PVC bristles for effective cleaning and will work with any WOLF-Garten Multi-Star handle (not included). This attachment is part of the WOLF-Garten Multi-Star Interlocking Tool System, which allows gardeners to quickly change tools with one click, eliminating the need for a space… |
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WATER & DIRT SHIELD ™ 3’9W Entry Mat – Bluestone, 3’9 x 16’6 – Frontgate Designed to capture the dampest, dirtiest tracks. 100% polypropylene (20% recycled content) fibers can absorb an entire gallon of water per square yard. Crush-resistant nubs remove and trap mud from feet. Raised rubber border ensnares every drop of water in each mat. Slip-resistant backing holds mat firmly in place. This WATER & DIRT SHIELD ™ Entry Mat absorbs water and scrapes mud from shoe… |
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Carhartt Men’s Workwear Pocket T-Shirt $15.00 classic! The jersey knit T-Shirt. 100% cotton comfort in a 6.75-ounce weight. Features a standard rib-knit crewneck and the convenience of a left chest pocket. Side-seamed construction guarantees less twisting and more comfort and ease of movement…. |
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Adventure Hat Bluestone Medium $34.25 Adventure Hat Bluestone Medium. The original design offers men and women excellent protection from UVA & UVB solar rays. Incredibly lightweight, its full brim and rear viel help prevent sun damage to your nose, face, ears, and neck. You will enjoy all day comfort regardless of your activities, travel, or weather. Discover improved skin health and anti-aging benefits today!… |
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