According to the experts you should only use products which have been specifically formulated for the process in order to clean and seal natural stone. If you use products which have been designed for general cleaning purposes it can cause damage to the stone.
Some of these cleaning products may contain acids (particularly tile and porcelain cleaners) which could etch into the stones surface. You are much better advised to use a gentle stone cleaner which has a pH balanced formula.
No matter how careful you may be spills can and do happen with frightening regularity. Some of these spillages can cause damage to the stone, particularly things like food and beverages, cosmetics etc. Toothpaste, perfumes and mouthwash all contain acids and other things which can act to degrade the stone sealer and cause damage to the surface of the stone. Drinks like orange juice are particularly harmful.
The single, most effective way to protect the surface of the stone is to treat it with sealant. Because many types of natural stone are porous they readily absorb liquids which help to create stains from spills. Applying sealer to the stone will repel some of these liquids and give you the opportunity to wipe them clean before they cause any damage. It is much easier to keep stone clean if it has been treated with the correct type of sealing agent.
If you are unsure whether your stone has already been treated there is a very simple test which you can do to find out. Drop a small amount of water onto the stone which measures at least a half inch diameter and leave it for 15 minutes. Cover this drop of water with a glass or something similar so that it does not evaporate.
If the area does not become darker then it is a good sign that your stone has been treated to repel water based products. Unfortunately the same test cannot be utilized against oil based products because if the stone is untreated you will be left with an unsightly oil stain.
Properly sealed stone should be fine for between three and five years although any surfaces which have a lot of use can be treated annually in order to maintain the protection of the surface.
Nothing is as naturally beautiful or durable as stone, and if it is cleaned and treated properly it will stay that way for many years to come. Check the paver sealing services website for more information and any needed help
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