Sealer & Natural Stone Basics 101

Sealer & Natural Stone Basics 101
Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should I Seal My Natural Stone?
This is a question we get quite often about natural stone. Although we think of stone as a hard surface, it is also porous and porosity varies by the type of stone. If left unsealed, natural stone can be stained and soiled. A protected, sealed stone will be easier to clean, resist staining, and provide a safer and healthier environment.

How can I tell if my stone has already been sealed?
Apply a drop of water at least ½-inch in diameter to the top of the stone and let stand for at least 15 minutes. Cover with a glass to inhibit evaporation. If the stone did not darken then your stone is probably sealed against water-based stains. Testing for oil repellency is not as simple because if your stone is not sealed, you will have an oil stain.

What brand of sealer does Home Plus recommend?
Home Plus Longview carries a full line of natural stone sealers in both solvent and water base, enhancers, and cleaners for natural stone products. Our perferred brand is Dupont StoneTech because of the quality and innovation that Dupont has always been know for..

How much time between coats of sealer?
Always follow your label directions. Most sealers require waiting only one hour between coats. Be patient, a little extra time can produce excellent results.
How often do I need to seal my stone?
If you sealed your stone with a quality sealer like StoneTech® Professional sealers and have maintained it with the correct cleaners, your sealer should last up to 3-5 years. Usage and maintenance greatly affects sealer durability.

Is one coat of sealer enough for natural stone?
When sealing a very dense stone, one coat will be sufficient. Most stones and grout will require two coats. A few of the more absorbent stones may need additional coats to be properly sealed. Home Plus can assist you in determining your needs.

What is a sealer?
A sealer is a penetrant applied to prevent the absorption of liquids or other debris. Natural stone sealers work like a protective coat for your stone, tile or grout. Our sealers will decrease the opportunity that anything can stain or harm your surface. We believe that you should always use an impregnating sealer allowing you to retain the natural beauty of the surface.
Will my natural stone look glossy after sealing or enhancing?
No, unless you selected a topical, high gloss sealer such as High Gloss Finishing Sealer . If properly applied, impregnating sealers will leave your surface looking natural. Enhancing sealers are designed to darken the stone while retaining the original polished, matte or honed look.


What is the difference between StoneTech Heavy-Duty Sealer and Impregnator Pro Sealer?
Stone-Tech Heavy-Duty sealer is a water-based product and Impregnator Pro is a solvent (oil) based product. Typically, solvent based sealers will allow varied and deeper penetration into the stone than water. Water is hydroscopic and will hold out on the surface. The protection cannot penetrate any deeper than the water will. For many dense surfaces, like porcelain tile and polished granite, water will not penetrate very deeply (if at all) and the protection is left at the surface with poorer durability over the long term.
Water-based products are typically lower in toxicity and have little or no smell as compared to similar solvent-based products. Contrary to some beliefs, water-based products are no easier to use or apply than comparable solvent-based products. Solvent based products are generally more expensive than water-based sealers.


When are transforming enhancing products recommended?
Enhancers can transform the stone surface by deepening the color. Most enhancers give some level of protection by including sealers in the product. Like sealers, there are solvent (oil) based products and water based products. Enhancers are almost impossible to remove, so test a small area first.