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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: The stone supplier said to seal my porcelain but my tiler said not to - why? - Stone Sealing

• A: The truth is porcelain is creating much confusion in the market place and many pages have been written to try to put all issues into perspective. The more questions you ask the more confused you will be. As a rule of thumb, textured and honed porcelain doesn't need to be sealed, but polished porcelain often does need to be. This is contrary to what may seem logical. The tiny pores that accept staining are created in the polishing process. A good penetrating sealer fills these pores and sets up good stain protection. The textured stone generally just need a good clean because of the rough surface. If you are not sure, do a stain test. Get a sample stone or an off-cut and try to stain it with the things common to that area. If it stains, there is a benefit to having the stone sealed.

Other FAQs :

• Q: Which specific products are utilized in the provided services?
• A: In our services, Tile Cleaners® exclusively employs high-quality cleaners and sealers sourced from reputable industry suppliers. These products are carefully chosen to ensure their suitability and effectiveness for the specific task at hand. We prioritize using premium products to deliver optimal results in our cleaning and sealing services.
• Q: What type of guarantee is provided with stone sealing services?
• A: Stone and grout sealing services do not typically come with guarantees. However, our Impregnating Water Based Sealers have a life expectancy of up to 10 years, which can vary based on factors such as the quality of the stone, level of foot traffic, and maintenance procedures implemented. It is important to understand that a sealer does not provide complete imperviousness to stains. Rather, it offers a reaction time to address spills. An unsealed floor can immediately stain, whereas a sealed floor is resistant to staining and provides a reaction time of up to 4-5 hours. A penetrating sealer sits just beneath the stone's surface, preventing spills from penetrating and causing staining. However, it cannot prevent etching or surface damage caused by acid-based spills like red wine, vinegar, urine, or fruit juice. Immediate cleaning of such spills is crucial to prevent permanent damage to the stone surface.
• Q: Why do I still see marks on my polished marble/limestone/travertine even though it has been sealed?
• A: Even though your polished marble/limestone/travertine has been sealed, you may still notice marks on the surface. It's important to understand that these marks are often not stains but rather etches. Acid-sensitive stones, such as these, can be affected by any acid, which can lead to a loss of polish and the creation of a dull or frosty surface. For example, red wine can cause both a stain and an etch on unsealed stone, but on a sealed stone, only the etch may be visible. Penetrating sealers function by sitting below the surface of the stone, preventing acid from deeply penetrating and causing stubborn stains, but they may not fully protect against surface etching. Acid can come in various forms, such as fruit juices, wine, salad dressings, or even urine in bathroom settings, and can cause damage. The good news is that this type of damage can typically be repaired.
• Q: Does the process of sealing tiles have the potential to alter the appearance of the surface?
• A: The effect of sealing on the surface's appearance can vary depending on factors such as the type of sealer used and the number of coats applied. Different sealers can produce different visual outcomes for the tiles. Some sealers may enhance the natural color and sheen of the tiles, while others may result in a more subdued or matte finish. It is important to consider your desired outcome and consult professionals for guidance in selecting a sealer that aligns with your aesthetic preferences and goals for the surface's appearance. By discussing your requirements, you can choose a sealer that enhances the overall look of the tiles to your satisfaction.
• Q: Does sealing my pavers or stone prevent the growth of algae?
• A: Sealing alters the properties of the pavers or stone but does not modify the surrounding environment. If your backyard is damp and shady, the sealing product cannot change those conditions. However, sealing reduces the porosity of the pavers or stone, thereby inhibiting the growth of algae and making cleaning easier. In most situations, it is advisable to consider sealing as a beneficial option.

For More Questions

FAQs » Stone Sealing

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