How to seal Natural Stone

Published: November 20th, 2024

How to Seal Natural Polished Natural Stone: A Comprehensive Guide

One of the most significant aspects of maintaining your natural stone worktops or interior is ensuring that it is properly sealed. Sealing your stone prevents it from staining and other damages caused by everyday use. This article will provide you with an easy-to-follow guide on the best way to seal your natural stone, helping to retain its original glory.

The Importance of Sealing Your Natural Stone

Before we dive into the 'how', it’s essential to understand the 'why'. Natural stone like marble, granite, limestone, or slate is porous. Without sealing, substances can soak into the material, causing aesthetic and structural damage. Sealants fill these pores, offering a protective barrier against water, oils, and harsh chemicals that may compromise your polished stone.

Choosing the Right Sealant for Your Natural Stone

Choosing the right sealant is just as crucial as the sealing process itself. Insufficient or poor-quality sealants will do little to protect your natural stone. Look for sealants designed for your specific stone type. Companies like StoneTech and Miracle Sealants have a broad range of high-quality products for specific stone types.

Preparing the Natural Stone for Sealing

Your first step is preparing the stone. You want to ensure that the stone is clean and dry before applying the sealant. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Clean the surface: Clean the stone with a pH-neutral cleaner to remove dirt and other contaminants. Avoid acidic or alkaline products as these can harm the natural stone.

2. Dry the stone: A dry stone ensures that the sealant adheres better. You should allow the stone to dry for 24-72 hours, depending on your climate and the stone's absorption rate.

A Step by Step Guide to Sealing Your Natural Stone

Once your stone is clean and dry, you’re ready to move on to the sealing process. Follow the steps below:

1. Test the sealant: Always test the sealant on an inconspicuous area to ascertain the final finish it provides and to check for any adverse reactions.

2. Apply the sealant: Apply it uniformly using a paintbrush, roller or spray. Do not allow it to pool on the surface.

3. Let it absorb: Let the sealant absorb into the stone for about 15-30 minutes. If it absorbs quickly, apply additional sealant until it stops absorbing.

4. Buff off the excess: After the sealant has absorbed into the stone, use a clean, dry, lint-free cloth to buff off any remaining sealant from the surface.

5. Let it dry: Allow the sealant to cure for the time recommended by the manufacturer, usually 24 to 48 hours, before any heavy use.

Remember to re-seal your natural stone every 1-5 years, depending on usage and the manufacturer's recommendations.

Best Practices When Sealing Your Natural Stone

Here are some helpful tips for sealing your natural stone successfully:

• Always read and follow the sealant manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.

• Always test the sealant on a small hidden area of the stone first to ensure the desired result.

• To prevent streaks or spots, ensure that the sealant is evenly applied.

• Ensure the room is well-ventilated during the application.

Final Thoughts

Sealing your natural stone is an essential part of maintaining its original beauty and extends its lifespan. Always choose the correct sealant, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and keep in mind the best practices outlined in this guide.

It might be a DIY project, but if you are uncomfortable or unsure, consider hiring a professional. Your natural polished stone is a valuable investment, and the last thing you want is to damage it in a bid to protect it. Happy sealing!