We are working almost daily with stain removal from natural stone surfaces. In fact I would say that in some instances we visit the same house more than 3 times in as many months.
Stains in stone are something that should be left to the professional. Sure, there are many quick fix websites offering advice but let me tell you, if you don't get it right first time it may be that the tile will need replacement and finding a match is nearly impossible.
Nowadays, Stone Seals and sealants are in abundance, but which one is right for you?
Firstly - Never let the builder, renovator or floor installer apply the seal. The seal is an arduous task that needs careful consideration and correct application. I probably remove over 10,000 sq mtrs of poorly applied Lithofin stain stop a year where the application has basically wiped it onto the floor leaving it porous and not sealed at all. So the householder has not only paid for the Lithofin seal but for us to remove it and provide the correct sealer for the stone.
"The Correct Sealer" I hear you cry. Yes, I am afraid to say that they are many types of sealer for many different stone types and what tasks the stone needs to do. Firstly there are water based and solvent based sealers. Other questions to consider are;
Does the stone get heavy traffic? How often is the stone cleaned? what type of beverages does the household use? Any Allergies within the residents? Type of finish preferred (matt), (Shine) etc?
DO we use water based?
DO we use Solvent Based?
Does the seal ever need topping up or replacement?
You get the picture;
The truth is if you do not use a professional Stone Sealer Applicator su
ch as Marble Master you are usually throwing your money down the drain. A sealant application professional will be able to help you make the correct choice.
We offer warranties with all of our applications of stone sealant. The most common home and office stone seal give a 15 Year Warranty. This means to you that if at any time during 15 years the sealer doesn't perform the whole product is reapplied FREE of charge.
Our impregnating sealers make treated indoor or outdoor surfaces easier to clean and maintain and to look good for longer. Dry-Treat does this by using nano-technology i.e. engineering at a molecular level. Our flagship product, STAIN-PROOF :
Guards engineering concrete, terracotta tile, cast stone, pavers, sandstone, limestone, brick, slate, marble, granite, porcelain, terrazzo, vitreous tile and grout against damage from water, water borne salts, oil based stains and graffiti;
Makes surfaces stay cleaner; Stands up to weather and traffic; Retains a natural look; Eliminates the occurrence of efflorescence;
Is suitable for a wide variety of home, commercial and industrial applications, including: building facades, floors, walls, stone bench tops, swimming pool surrounds, public areas, patios, garages, kitchens and entertaining areas, and Is backed by a 15 year warranty
About the author:
Edward Green owns and operates the highly successful Marble Master Ltd company. Marble Master specializes in Restoration and Refinishing of all types of natural stone and consultancy services to Architects, Restoration Companies and Interior Designers. http://www.marblemasteruk.com