Sealing makes the stone more resistant to stains and allows for easier cleaning. It can also help to prevent salt damage, acid erosion and algae growth, and to preserve the stone's natural beauty.
“Do I need to seal my pavers?” The short answer is Yes. Paver sealant is an important maintenance tool to keep paver patios, walkways, driveways and pool decks looking as beautiful as they day they were installed.
Not sealing a stone countertop or floor tiles — which get the heaviest traffic and are the most susceptible to wear and tear — leaves the surface vulnerable to absorbing foreign substances, which can weaken the stone and potentially lead to the growth of bacteria.
To be safe, let me say that for the most part, all stone surfaces should be sealed for maximum protection. The worst case when you are dealing with a stone that is not very porous is that the stone will absorb very little sealer to achieve maximized protection.
Impregnators are water-based sealers that penetrate the surface of the stone. Although this solvent acts as a repellent against anti-stone substances, it still allows the surface to “breathe.” The majority of impregnators won't change the stone's appearance, are long-lasting and are not affected by UV lighting.
A – On average, a stone sealer will last between 3-5 years before it will need to be reapplied. The quality of the sealer used and the porosity of the stone will all have an effect on just how long your sealer will last.
On average, the lifespan of natural stones, like marble and granite, can be well over 100 years. That's compared to ceramic tile with a life expectancy of 75 years.
Quartz countertops are the easiest natural stone to take care of. They are engineered using ground stone and resin, so they don't require regular sealing they way most granite and marble countertops do. This stone is non-porous, so it does not easily stain or etch.
The weight of the natural stone is heavier than artificial stone, and therefore its use in the building is time-consuming. Climate and environmental changes affect the texture of the rock and cause cracking, mildew, and dandruff on the surface.
How Often Should You Seal Your Natural Stone Countertops? Unfortunately, not all stones are created equal. The specific material you choose for your countertops will influence how frequently your countertops will need to be resealed. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend resealing every 2-3 years.
Natural stone, as beautiful and tough as it may be, is also somewhat fragile. While it defies the barriers of time and is extraordinarily durable, it requires a certain level of TLC to ensure it retains its original splendour.
Unlike natural stone pavers, porcelain pavers are fade resistant and don't need sealing. Also, they can stand up to almost anything nature can throw at it. Natural stone pavers, of course, are Nature's decorative flooring. Travertine, slate, and quartzite can create eye-popping floors, each different from the next.
You're wondering what happens if you don't seal pavers. Your pavers won't disintegrate if you don't seal them, but they'll likely fade much sooner than if you applied sealant. You'll also need to clean them more often, and the stains won't be as easy to remove.
Unlike concrete, the colors of natural stones are not pigmented, which only add to their beauty. They're also not made from mixtures of composite aggregate like concrete pavers, so they can preserve their beauty as they age, mature, and fade.
ROUTINE CARE
Natural stone countertops and floors should be cleaned with neutral cleaners specifically designed for stone. These cleaners are concentrated pH neutral cleaners that will not affect existing sealers or other types of coatings. Stone cleaners should never contain acid or bleach.
Any material – including granite and marble – will fade in sunlight if it hasn't been rated specifically for UV exposure. Here's a quick rundown of the science behind UV rays and surface discolouration.
The Difference Between Manufactured Stone and Natural Stone
Natural stone is heavier in weight, making it difficult to transport. Manufactured stone requires less installation time while also being cost-effective. Manufactured stone creates less waste than natural stone. Manufactured stone adheres to multiple surfaces.
Myth: Sealing will change the color of my stone.
Typically, impregnator sealers neither change the color of natural stone nor add shine. If you are sealing a polished limestone, travertine, marble, or granite, the impregnator will not change the color and will not add shine.
Each type of stone is different, and they each need to be treated as such, but because all natural stone is porous, a penetrating and non-film forming sealer should be used so that it can penetrate deep within the stone and repel water from more than just the surface layer.
However, if you are interested in a natural look you won't ruin to stone if you leave it unsealed. But the colour of your limestone will change relatively quickly and will stop looking brand new after a few months if left untreated. So, should you seal it? - Ideally yes.
A matt stone sealer will not change the colour or appearance of a stone floor. A polished stone sealer will add a slight sheen to the surface of most stone tiles.