Sealers to Protect Stone

Kitchen counters, bathroom vanities, and bar tops are highly susceptible to staining due to frequent exposure to substances containing oil or dyes. Therefore, it is crucial to apply a sealer to prevent staining. The selection of an appropriate sealer is critical for its performance. A skilled stone restoration contractor can determine the most suitable sealer, taking into account the specific stone type and location.

Impregnating Sealers

The most widely used sealers are impregnating sealers, also referred to as penetrating sealers. They are used to prevent staining in natural stone by penetrating below the surface and safeguarding the stone from within. These sealers contain water-repellent and oil-repellent compounds. Although topical sealers are accessible, they can pose issues and are typically not advised.

Misconceptions about Sealers

It’s crucial to clarify misconceptions surrounding the function of sealers. It’s essential to note that sealers do not safeguard against traffic patterns or etching. The stone’s surface remains vulnerable to scratches, dullness, acidic substances, and other types of damage. Furthermore, even with proper sealing, natural stone is not entirely stain-proof, but rather stain-resistant. Sealing provides a window of time to clean up spills before they penetrate the stone and result in stains. After sealing, regular cleaning with pH-neutral stone care products and occasional refinishing are necessary for maintaining natural stone.

New High Performance Protective Treatments

There are new protective treatments that, unlike impregnating sealers, offer both etch and stain protection. Ask us about how we can protect your natural stone.