Natural stone in its very formation is porous and this means that from the point it is laid it needs to be protected by a penetrating impregnator.
The science behind it is complicated but as a porous material, stone absorbs so it is an inevitable fact that over time, stone tiles will deteriorate.
This may be in the form of staining or discolouration.
So what do you need to know? Firstly it is important to understand that there are two types of protection for stone and these are in the forms of impregnators and sealers.
While an impregnator works to protect the inside composition of the natural stone, a sealer will offer protection for the top surface of the stone.
Secondly, an impregnator, or penetrating sealer works to infiltrate below the surface of the stone and as a result works to restrict contaminants such as water, dirt or oils from absorbing into the tile.
A true benefit of an impregnator is that it will not affect or alter the texture of colour of the stone.
Thirdly, a quality stone sealer will provide exceptional protection to the surface of the stone or tile and offers superior stain resistance.
The one thing to be aware of is that stone sealers can slightly alter the colour of the stone; it may be that it provides a slightly darker tone and will create a shine.
However, a stone sealer can be worn away and therefore does require regular re-application.
Fourthly, it is very important to appreciate the sealers will offer a resistance against liquid spillages.
This does not mean that the tile becomes water proof.
It is inevitable that if liquid remains on a tile for a prolonged amount of time that it will penetrate the tile and stain it.
The main purpose or function of sealers is to offer protection and to provide you with the time to mop or dab up a liquid spill.
Fifthly, is how to tell if your stone floor requires a reapplication of impregnators and sealers.
It is often difficult to tell, however, one way in which to identify whether there is sufficient seal is to apply moisture to your stone.
If beading occurs it is likely that your stone is sufficiently sealed.
If the area underneath of the moisture has darkened it is likely that the stone requires a reapplication of an impregnator.
The final element is highlighted throughout the above information.
It is increasingly evident that there are intricacies to sealing stone and stone floor restoration that need to be appreciated.
This appreciation will then work to increase longevity of the stone floor and its improved appearance.
Natural stone needs to be properly maintained; this is through routine cleaning and periodic restoration by a professional.
This includes deep cleaning, cleaning of grout, polishing, repairs and sealing.
This comprehensive service cost-effective and will leave you in the comfortable position of enjoying the true beauty of your natural stone.
The science behind it is complicated but as a porous material, stone absorbs so it is an inevitable fact that over time, stone tiles will deteriorate.
This may be in the form of staining or discolouration.
So what do you need to know? Firstly it is important to understand that there are two types of protection for stone and these are in the forms of impregnators and sealers.
While an impregnator works to protect the inside composition of the natural stone, a sealer will offer protection for the top surface of the stone.
Secondly, an impregnator, or penetrating sealer works to infiltrate below the surface of the stone and as a result works to restrict contaminants such as water, dirt or oils from absorbing into the tile.
A true benefit of an impregnator is that it will not affect or alter the texture of colour of the stone.
Thirdly, a quality stone sealer will provide exceptional protection to the surface of the stone or tile and offers superior stain resistance.
The one thing to be aware of is that stone sealers can slightly alter the colour of the stone; it may be that it provides a slightly darker tone and will create a shine.
However, a stone sealer can be worn away and therefore does require regular re-application.
Fourthly, it is very important to appreciate the sealers will offer a resistance against liquid spillages.
This does not mean that the tile becomes water proof.
It is inevitable that if liquid remains on a tile for a prolonged amount of time that it will penetrate the tile and stain it.
The main purpose or function of sealers is to offer protection and to provide you with the time to mop or dab up a liquid spill.
Fifthly, is how to tell if your stone floor requires a reapplication of impregnators and sealers.
It is often difficult to tell, however, one way in which to identify whether there is sufficient seal is to apply moisture to your stone.
If beading occurs it is likely that your stone is sufficiently sealed.
If the area underneath of the moisture has darkened it is likely that the stone requires a reapplication of an impregnator.
The final element is highlighted throughout the above information.
It is increasingly evident that there are intricacies to sealing stone and stone floor restoration that need to be appreciated.
This appreciation will then work to increase longevity of the stone floor and its improved appearance.
Natural stone needs to be properly maintained; this is through routine cleaning and periodic restoration by a professional.
This includes deep cleaning, cleaning of grout, polishing, repairs and sealing.
This comprehensive service cost-effective and will leave you in the comfortable position of enjoying the true beauty of your natural stone.
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