Cleaners & Sealers

Cleaners and sealers make hardscape surfaces look gorgeous and last longer. Natural stone and concrete are examples of porous materials that can hold onto dirt, oil and moisture. Over time, this accumulation can lead to stains, discoloration and even structural damage. Use appropriate cleaners and sealers to avoid these and make ongoing maintenance easier.

Stone Cleaners

Clean the surface before using a protective coating. Stone cleaners eliminate soils, spills, and organic growth and do not damage the stone.

Stone cleaners are specialized products with formulas designed to bring up dirt, oil, rust, and biological matter. They’re formulated to be mild enough so they don’t etch or dull stone finishes, but tough enough to address hard-to-remove stains.

• Protects the Surface: Regular cleaning protects the surface, preventing contaminants from getting into the pores.
• Extends Sealer Life: A clean stone helps sealers stick better and last longer.
• Maintains Appearance: A clean surface on the stone showcases its natural colors and designs.

Stone Sealers

After cleaning, sealers establish a barrier that prevents liquid and dirt from penetrating the stone. This barrier maintains the stone’s appearance and strength.

Stone sealers are coatings that either seep into the stone or create a film on the surface. Penetrating sealers are absorbed in the pores, whereas topical sealers rest on the surface and usually have a shine.

• Stain Resistance: As mentioned before, a sealer prevents water and other liquids from creating stains in the stone.
• Freeze‑Thaw Protection: Sealers help prevent moisture penetration, so the chances of cracking are lowered in cold climates.
• Easier Cleaning: A sealed surface resists the accumulation of dirt, as it can rinse away more easily.

Types of Cleaners and Sealers

There are several classes of cleaners and sealers. Choosing the right type depends on the kind of stone, its location, and the desired finish.

Stone Cleaner Types

1. pH‑Neutral Cleaners: Gentle cleaners are safe on most stones. They provide light soil removal with no streaks or residue.
2. Heavy‑Duty Degreasers: A stronger formulation than the above. They work on oil, grease and other heavy stains on driveways, commercial kitchens and outdoor cooking areas.
3. Rust and Metal Stain Removers: Containing certain acids or chelating agents, they get rid of rust, copper, and iron stains without harming the stone.
4. Efflorescence Removers: Efflorescence is a powdery white residue that forms on porous surfaces. These cleaners break down the mineral salts, revealing a clean appearance again.

Stone Sealer Types

1. Penetrating Sealers: Penetrating sealers infiltrate the stone’s pores and provide protection from the inside. They do not alter the surface appearance and let the stone breathe. These sealers work well for outdoor surfaces and polished countertops.
2. Topical Sealers: Topical sealers create a film on the surface of the stone. They also often improve color and can introduce a glossy, matte, or satin finish. They provide strong stain resistance, but they might require more frequent touch‑up coats, particularly in areas with heavy foot traffic.
3. Water‑Based Polymer Sealers: These are easy to apply and clean up. Water‑based polymers are commonly used for interior decorative stone, as they dry clear and do not substantially change the appearance of the stone.
4. Solvent‑Based Sealers: Solvent‑based sealers go deeper and tend to last longer than water‑based sealers. They can apply a slight sheen and are great for outdoor applications where durability is crucial.

Choosing the Right Cleaner & Sealer

The choice of the right products depends on a range of aspects. Obtain the best results, however, by matching the cleaner or sealer to the stone and its surroundings.

1. Stone Porosity

Materials such as limestone and travertine are more absorptive. Penetrating sealers are best. Dense stones (granite and slate) have fewer pores and can be treated with either penetrating or topical sealers.

2. Location and Exposure

Seek out UV‑resistant sealers in outdoor areas, which face rain, sun and temperature pangs. Water‑based sealers are more suitable for indoor spaces, due to their low levels of odor and fast drying time.

3. Traffic and Usage

Driveways and walkways require tough sealers that resist abrasive wear. Such surfaces may benefit from sealers that deepen sheen and color.

4. Desired Finish

Penetrating sealers keep the stone looking natural, whereas topical sealers or color enhancers bring out the colors in the stone.

5. Maintenance Preferences

A more durable penetrating sealer will minimize resealings. Topical sealers are no longer resistant but offer a richer appearance.

Application Best Practices

Proper application helps ensure that cleaners and sealers perform their purpose properly and last as long as possible.

1. Remove loose dirt and old sealers.
2. Whether the stone cleaner is pH neutral or on the acidic side, clean the surface well and rinse.
3. Make sure to let the stone dry prior to sealing. However, if moisture gets trapped, it could interfere with the bond.
4. Always do a small test in an inconspicuous area to check for a change of color or undesirable effects.
5. Use the suggested applicator (roller, sprayer, or brush). Use thin, even coats to avoid pooling.
6. Drying and recoat times should be followed according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Skipping or hurrying this step will limit the effectiveness.
7. Wash tools right away after using them. The environment can also be protected by disposing of any leftover product correctly.

Maintenance and Reapplication

Ongoing maintenance keeps sealed surfaces looking pristine and alerts people when resealing is appropriate.

• Every three to six months, it is recommended to use a pH‑neutral cleaner to remove surface grime.
• Water the surface evenly. If it soaks in after only a few minutes, the seal has worn off and a re-sealing is due.
• Resealing Schedule:
• High‑Traffic/Outdoor: Every 1–3 years.
• Low‑Traffic/Indoor: Every 3–5 years.
• Look for dull spots, heavier staining, or color fading as indicators that it is time to apply a new coat of sealer.

Conclusion

The use of proper stone cleaners and sealers helps to prevent hardscape surfaces from damage, improves their appearance, and prolongs their lifespan. With knowledge of product types and best practices for selection and application, professionals can ensure their installations look beautiful for years with minimal maintenance. With regular maintenance and timely re-application, stone surfaces can perform well, if not better, than the day they are installed and last for years to come.