More and more homeowners are using natural stone for their kitchens, bathrooms, and other places throughout the home. Natural stone requires proper cleaning methods along with regular maintenance. For those who may be considering installing natural stone in their home, or if it is time to reseal your stone, Carpet Care 2000 will share how to reseal and care for natural stone in your home.
Why is Using a Natural Stone Sealer Important?
Natural stone requires the proper cleaners or the stone can actually begin to erode. If this happens, eventually your natural stone will be damaged beyond repair. Natural stone is both beautiful and expensive. This why it is essential to care for and clean natural stone correctly. In addition, natural stone requires a sealer to help protect the stone’s surface from erosion. Basic care for natural stone requires a distinct cleaning solution for the types of stone you have. With natural stone, you’ll always want to prevent moisture from sitting on the surface for long periods of time. Lastly, keep any acidic drink or food from coming into contact with the stone. Keep in mind that natural stone erodes very easily. Natural stone’s only defense is its sealer. This is why it important to know when and how to reseal natural stone. Most sealers are a simple task that should be done at least once a year.
How to Seal Natural Stone
If you want to do your own resealing, follow these basic steps or contact a professional.
Step 1. Clean the surface of the stone with the correct cleaner. With a soft cloth buff the surface of the stone until it’s clean. Some stone will darken due to pores. This means the stone is saturated. Before moving on to the next step, allow the stone to fully dry.
Step 2. Next you will want to pour the sealer into a bowl or container that you can dip a brush in. In the room or area where you’ll be using the sealer, open all the windows and turn off all the fans. Some sealers contains strong fumes
Step 3. Using a foam paintbrush, dip the brush into the sealer and begin applying the sealer. Use broad strokes and overlap each stroke. Work from the top to the bottom and work your way to the other side. This will help prevent dripping. Once complete, let the sealer set for about 10 minutes or until it’s dry.
Step 4. After the sealer has had time to dry, use a dry cloth to remove the remaining sealer that didn’t absorb. Make sure to remove the excess sealer. You must work quickly to remove the sealer or it will become sticky or uneven.
Note: If you’re using a color enhancing sealer, make sure to use an impregnating seal first. Color enhanced sealers don’t protect the stone, which is why you need the two coats of sealer.
Natural Stone & Manmade Tile & Grout Cleaning & More in Tracy, Livermore, San Ramon, Dublin, Mountain House, Walnut Creek, Danville & the East Bay of California
If natural stone becomes damaged due to neglect, it may require buffing and re-polishing by a professional. If you want your natural stone cared for and professionally cleaned, restored, and resealed, contact Carpet Care 2000. We provide a wide range of services that can benefit your home or business. Contact Carpet Care 2000 today.
