Tile & Grout Sealing
Why Bother?
Nonporous surfaces, such as glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles, do not require sealers; but porous natural stone and unglazed tiles should be sealed after cleaning.
This is because sealing your tiles and grout helps to prevent stains and maintain the appearance of your stone and unglazed tiles.
Sealers
Modern stone sealers are divided into three broad types:
1. Topical sealers
These sealers are generally made from polyurethanes or acrylics. They are effective at stopping stains and hiding scratches but, being exposed on the surface of the material, they tend to wear out relatively quickly, especially in high-traffic areas. This type of sealer significantly changes the look and slip resistance of the surface, especially when it is wet.
2. Penetrating sealers
These sealers use siliconates, fluoro-polymers and siloxanes to repel liquids. The sealers penetrate the surface of the stone enough to anchor the material to the surface. They are generally longer lasting than topical sealers and often do not substantially alter the look of the stone; but they can change the slip characteristics of the surface and do wear relatively quickly. Penetrating sealers often require the use of special cleaners which both clean and top up the repellent ingredient left on the stone surface.
3. Impregnating sealers
These advanced sealers use silanes or modified silanes. They are a type of penetrating sealer, but penetrate deeply into the material to protect the stone or tile by creating a chemical barrier within the pores of the tile or stone that repels water and oil without blocking the pores. These are invisible penetrating sealers that retain the natural look. A good depth of penetration also ensures protection from weathering and traffic.
Sealer Miscellany
Older types of sealers were formulated for different stone types, but new technology has produced multi-surface sealers, which can be used with stone or tile.
Some penetrating sealers also go beyond just sealing. These sealers provide stain protection while enhancing the colour of unpolished stone. They work particularly well on natural stone, such as marble, limestone, tumbled stone and slate.
Water solvent-based enhancer sealers should be used on less porous surfaces.
The best sealer for outdoor areas is a multi-surface product that is ultraviolet stable, water resistant and able to withstand harsh chemicals.
Most sealer applications will last three to five years, depending on the cleaning methods used and the amount of exposure from the elements and foot traffic.
Sealers can usually be applied within three to four hours after the cleaning process; it’s important there is enough drying time before installing the sealer.
Knowledge & Expertise
You need a service provider who knows all these facts and has the experience and equipment to ensure a thorough clean, followed by a long lasting seal. Best 1 is that service provider.