Remember, impregnator sealers typically do not change the color of the stone or add shine. Also, “hard water spots” are actually etch marks. Certain stones such as marble will always react and etch when they come in contact with acid, ammonia and alcohol (even if these stones are sealed).
Rockstar STONE ENHANCER is a sealer that darkens and brings out the natural beauty of stone. Ideal for enriching the colour of worn, faded or damaged stone. Rockstar STONE ENHANCER is a penetrating and breathable sealer which is suitable for use indoors and outdoors.
Using enhancer sealers is what is typically done, but they only last so long. So if you want to maintain a consistent wet/darker look that enhances the colors of the stone, then you have to reapply it probably every 6 months or so depending on your preferences and the climatic conditions of the area.
When cleaning natural stones like marble, limestone, and onyx, you can't reach for your regular cleaners like white vinegar, lemon juice, bleach, or abrasive cleansers. These cleaners are too acidic for natural stone and can damage or etch the stone (although some can help remove rust from concrete).
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.
Applying a stain to the stone can help bring out this natural texture and add to the stone's visual appeal. Be aware that staining stone can only darken the color; you cannot lighten a dark-colored stone by applying stain.
Topical Sealers are often required if you wish to alter the finish as well as enhancing the color. An example would be adding a sheen or shine to a stone that has a naturally dull or matte finish. This is where a topical sealer may be more suitable.
To modernize your stone, use latex acrylic stucco paint to give your stacked stone the finished look you're after. Use a paint-mixing tool to mix the paint until you get a uniform color. Apply the paint using a heavy nap roller designed for masonry and a paint tray.
MARBLELIFE Stone Sealer is easy to use and provides lasting resistance to staining from oil, water and food without altering the color, texture and breathability of your stone. Recommended for use on marble, travertine, slate, granite and other natural stone surfaces.
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.
You have several sealer options available to choose from available from a home center or tile and stone supply center. The most common are Enhancing and Natural sealers. Enhancing sealers darken the stone and give it a 'wet' look. Natural sealers offer the same protection without changing the stone's appearance.
Because these stones have a high porosity, it's important to seal them about every six months and clean them with solutions specially designed for natural stone. This upkeep is essential to making sure your floors and countertops remain beautiful and functional for decades to come.
Once you finish your application, keep family members, pets, & yourself out of the area while it cures. Sealer takes 24–72 hours to fully cure, but you can resume normal use after just 6–8 hours. Put a reminder in your phone or planner to reseal your surfaces again next year.
PREMIUM BLUESTONE SEALER is a specially formulated natural penetrating sealer developed for Bluestone and other natural stone and masonry surfaces. This penetrating sealer is formulated to keep the natural colour of the stone and will not change the surface texture but may darken slightly.
The short answer to the question above is yes, natural stone countertops do fade. Direct sunlight has ultraviolet radiation, which is the reason why fading occurs on countertop surfaces, especially those that are installed outdoors.
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.
There is a misconception that stone stains easily. It may stain easier than ceramic or porcelain, but timber would have the same issues. It's like if you drop something on your carpet, you will clean it up quickly so it doesn't soak in and stain. The same concept applies for natural stone.
Apply a second coat of stain after the first has dried fully. This will usually produce a slightly darker coloring with the excess wiped off. Substitute a glaze or gel stain for the liquid stain. Glazes and gel stains usually contain a higher ratio of pigment to vehicle.
If the first layer of stain looks perfect, then great! You do not need to add a second layer. You should reserve adding a second layer only if you want a darker color for the stain. However, many times, the first layer of stain will suffice for both adequate protection and the desired color.
Some stones may absorb liquids, and if such liquids are staining agents, a stain might occur. A stain is usually darker than the stained material, while the surface finish of the stone remains smooth.
Penetrating sealers are considered by most experts to be the best type of sealers for Sandstone, Limestone, Slate, Granite and Travertine.
Topical Sealers are surface forming sealers such as acrylic or wax. Topical sealers can add shine to stones that are textured and cannot be naturally polished, such as slate or flamed granite. We recommend acrylic sealer, Seal Out.