When considering how to seal natural stone flooring, ask yourself, how long will me stone floor last?
We believe that if a stone floor is installed and cared for correctly then it should last the lifetime of a house.
Make sure it’s installed by a professional, sealed correctly and cleaned with the right products and you’re on to a winner.
Stone gets better with age, it won’t stay the same for ever.
Read on to see our guide for you to seal natural stone flooring in your home.
STEP ONE: INITIAL CLEANING
Before sealing natural stone must be thoroughly cleaned to make sure that sealing of the surface can be achieved effectively.
This is true of newly installed surfaces, as well as existing, due to the contamination that can occur during fitting.
Equipment recommended for this step is a bucket, mop, white emulsifying pad.
We recommend LTP LTP Grimex as the solution for cleaning newly installed natural stone surfaces before sealing.
LTP Grimex removes grease, dirt and grime from the surface ensuring the natural stone surface is best prepared for application of a sealing product.
Cleaning newly installed stone surfaces
- Dilute LTP Grimex 1:10 with water.
- Apply solution to the surface with a mop or sponge. Under floor heating must be off.
- Agitate to release the residual dirt and grime from the surface with a mildly abrasive pad (White emulsifying pad). Rinse well using a sponge & water.
- Do not use acidic cleaners, such as LTP Grout Stain Remover.
- Allow the surface to dry (preferably for 24 hours).
STEP TWO: PROTECT YOUR NATURAL STONE SURFACE FROM STAINS
To protect stone surfaces and help prevent staining natural stone should be sealed.
LTP recommends applying LTP Mattstone for a natural (invisible finish) or LTP Colour Intensifier & Stainblock for an enhanced appearance.
LTP Colour Intensifier & Stainblock deepens the colour and enhances the appearance of the stone surface.
Sealing prepared natural stone surfaces
- Surfaces must be clean and dry. Ensure under floor heating is off.
- Apply the product to the surface evenly using either LTP sealant applicator,a sponge, brush or soft cloth.
- Redistribute to remove excess product and avoid pooling on the surface.
- Allow to dry. Do not walk on the surface for at least one hour.
- Protect from water for 24 hours and do not wash surfaces for at least 3 days.
What are your thoughts on how to seal natural stone flooring?
Let us know in the comments! If you have questions please also ask those in the comments and we’ll get them answered for you.
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