COVID 19 UPDATE – Let’s work together to weather the effects of COVID 19. At
Stonetooling.com, we have implemented new processes and procedures. Details
FREE SHIPPING ON QUALIFYING ORDERS OVER $99
For that “wet look,” Enhancing Sealers will enrich the color of the stone or tile by bringing out the natural beauty while also providing a stain resistant seal. When referring to a "wet look", it means the material will be darkened. It will NOT give a glossy or polished finish. These types of enhancing sealers are also penetrating or impregnating sealers. The sealer will penetrate the pores of the material to provide protection against stains while darkening and highlighting the material. Enhancing sealers are excellent for rejuvenating old, weathered, and faded surfaces.
Enhancing penetrating sealers will provide the best protection against stains. The sealer penetrates the pores in the material and leaves a coating of polymers that will repel liquids and help prevent staining. Not all enhancers will protect against both water-based and oil-based stains. If the sealer will be used in an area that may come into contact with oils on a regular basis such as kitchens and bathrooms, be sure to choose a sealer that protects against both types of stains.
Topical Sealers & Coatings
Lacquers and high gloss sealers will bring a shiny look to the surface of the installation. These types of enhancing sealers are topical sealers or coatings that will sit on the surface and not penetrate into the pores of the material. They are best suited for porous natural stone including limestone, slate, travertine, sandstone, flagstone, tumbled stone, flamed stone & textured stone as well as other porous or textured material including masonry, concrete, and manmade tile like terracotta, Saltillo, and quarry tile.
While topical sealers are ideal for a high gloss finish, they are not suitable for all applications, especially in bathrooms or around pools because when they get wet, they can become very slippery. Additionally, if moisture gets under the sealer itself, a host of problems including mildew, mold, and cloudiness can occur. Furthermore, topical sealers will often show scuffs marks, flake more readily, and require more maintenance than penetrating sealers because the sealer will typically need to be stripped before each reapplication.
Polishing Products
To boost the shine of natural stone including marble, granite, terrazzo, travertine, and limestone, we have many polishing products available including liquid polish, polishing powder, and waxes. Polishing powder is also ideal for removing light scratches and acid etch marks.
