The Pros & Cons of Sealing Natural Stone
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The pros and cons of sealing natural stone
When it comes to natural stone, there are two schools of thought when it comes to sealing: to seal or not to seal. Here, we weigh the pros and cons of sealing natural stone, so you can make the best decision for your home.
The Pros:
- Sealing protects natural stone from staining.
- Sealing makes natural stone easier to clean.
- Sealing can give natural stone a glossy finish.
The Cons:
- Sealing can change the appearance of natural stone.
- Sealing can make natural stone more difficult to repair.
- Sealing can be a time-consuming process.
So, what's the real story?
First of all, not all stone is created equal. Some stones are more porous than others, and therefore will require more frequent sealing. Secondly, sealing stone is not a one-time process. You will need to re-seal your stone periodically in order to keep it protected.
If you're not sure whether your natural stone needs to be sealed, we recommend staying on the side of caution and seal it. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your investment.
But ultimately, the decision to seal or not to seal natural stone is a personal one. Weigh the pros and cons to decide what’s best for your home.
How to seal natural stone
Most natural stone surfaces need to be sealed in order to keep them looking their best. Here are some tips on how to seal natural stone:
- Choose the right sealer. There are many different types of sealers available, so be sure to choose one that is specifically designed for natural stone.
- Make sure the surface is clean. Before applying the sealer, be sure to clean the surface of the natural stone. This will help the sealer to better adhere to the surface.
- Apply the sealer. Once the surface is clean, you can apply the sealer. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.
- Allow the sealer to dry. After applying the sealer, be sure to allow it to dry completely before using the natural stone surface.
The best sealers for natural stone
There are a few different options on the market, but our favorite is a silicone-based sealer. This type of sealer does an excellent job of repelling water and stains, and it won't damage the stone like some other sealers can.