There are two types of sealers available for use on natural stone; topical and penetrating. Choosing the best product for your purposes will depend on the type of stone you have and where it is being used. A topical sealer is a better stone color enhancer and is used to polish and provide protection to porous stones such as travertine and slate. A penetrating sealer is better for use on less porous stone such as granite. Both types may include an additive as a stone color enhancer.
Before you choose a sealer you must know what type of natural stone you have in your home. If the stone has “veins” there is a very good chance it is some type of marble, if there are fossil formations in the stone it is probably a form of limestone and hard stones with a rough crystalline structure are most likely granite.
A topical solution is often used for sealing granite countertops. This helps in providing a protective barrier against water and oily food stuff and liquids. A topical solution often leaves the surface of the natural stone with the appearance of being highly polished. Since topical sealers can become slippery when they are wet, it is recommended to use stone with a non-slip additive for a kitchen or bathroom floor. The extremely shiny surface of stone that has been subjected to a topical sealer can be buffed to maintain the appearance for some time.
Topical sealers have a tendency to darken the stone. This topical coating does not wear well and shows scuff marks when the stone is used for flooring. If the tile is installed in a high traffic area it may have to be applied frequently as this type of sealer does have the tendency to wear off quickly.
A topical sealer only affects the surface of the natural stone whereas a penetrating stone sealer works below the surface, providing protection from liquids and other oily materials. A penetrating sealer is rarely noticeable as it does not have much effect on the appearance of the stone. This type of sealer does not do a good job of protecting the stone from scratches or abrasions caused by foot traffic or dirt and debris.
The type of MB Stone Care stone sealer you purchase will depend on what finish you want on your floors or countertops. A topical sealer is usually the best for porous stone in high traffic areas while a porous sealer is best for hard stones such as marble and granite.
If you are looking for high quality stone color enhancer and natural stone sealers you are invited to shop online at MB Stone Care & Supply LLC.
