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Stone, Tile, & Grout Sealants

Writer's picture: AdminAdmin

Updated: Apr 16, 2023

" Here we take an in-depth look at the different seals available and their uses..."


" A note to you the customer - many companies will sell a seal on the basis it will stop your floor and grout from becoming soiled...

This is ufortunately not true. An effective seal will however help with future maintenance of your stone and grout as well as preventing liquids and oils from penetrating the stone itself which would potentially cause a range of different issues including - staining, bacteria growth, efflorescence and many others.

 

" Here at Fresh Air Floorcare we use only premium products - where some companies may try and cut cost and sacrifice standards we believe in only using the best of the best. Not only does this give the most desirable results, it also means the products used are safe for you, your home, your family, and your pets."



 

The Main Types Of Sealants For Stone & Grout:


Impregnating seals:





A Brief Introduction

An impregnating stone sealer is a type of protection used on natural stone surfaces such as granite, marble, and limestone. Unlike surface sealers ( topical) that sit on top of the stone, impregnating sealers penetrate the pores of the stone to create a barrier that repels water, oil, and other liquids. This helps prevent stains, discoloration, and damage caused by water and chemical absorption. Impregnating stone sealers also allow the stone to breathe, preventing moisture buildup and maintaining the natural look and texture of the stone. The benefits of using an impregnating stone sealer include protecting the stone from damage, making it easier to clean, and extending its lifespan. These seals can enhance the colours of your floor if desired but will not add a " wet look"/gloss finish.



Impregnating Seal Uses

Impregnating seals are suitable for all natural stone including but not limited to marble, sandstone, limestone, slate, serpentine, and clay based tile....

Whilst a standard impregnator won't alter the natural look of your stone floor you can opt for a colour enhancing variant. These highlight the natural colours present in the stone itself and intensify the aesthetics of your floor.

Most impregnating seals can be applied the same day which minimises cost and increases efficiency for both you the customer and us the company supplying the service.




Topical Seals:






A Brief Introduction


A topical stone sealer is a protective coating that is applied to natural stone surfaces, such as granite, marble, and travertine, to prevent stains and damage. The sealer sits on top of the stone and creates a barrier against liquids, oil, and other substances that can cause damage. The benefits of using a topical stone sealer include increased resistance to stains, easier maintenance, and prolonged life of the stone. It is important to choose a high-quality sealer and to apply it correctly to ensure maximum protection for your natural stone surfaces.

Topical sealers are not appropriate to be used on polished surfaces.


Topical Seal uses


The main circumstance a topical seal would be used is to create a gloss/wet look finish on an un polished stone or natural tile floor. For example - to create a gloss & shine on a terracotta floor.

Where a marble or limestone floor can be polished using diamond resins and pads a sandstone or victorian tiled floor for example cannot be treated the same way and if the desired finish is a gloss then a topical seal is the only way to achieve this.



Grout Seals:




As impregnating and topical seals cannot be used on ceramic and porcelain flooring, the grout can still be sealed using a specific grout sealant. This helps prevent staining from oil and other liquids.






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