Choosing the Correct Sealer

Natural stone surfaces, such as marble and granite, are porous and need to be sealed to prevent stains. Impregnating sealers penetrate into the stone surface, still allowing the stone to “breathe” while protecting against oil, water and other surface stains. Sealing your stone surface is a part of maintenance and depending on use, the sealer should be reapplied every 12-18 months.

Choosing the correct sealer depends on the stone surface. For stones with a textured or honed finish, like most travertine and limestone, Tenax Protex offers superior stain protection without creating a superficial film. Protex is one of the top premium sealers on the market today. It is highly effective for marble or travertine showers where water protection is necessary.

Outdoor slate and flag-stone will often become sun-faded, looking grey and dull. Tenax Ager sealer is a high-quality sealer that enhances all types of stone, creating a “wet” effect, bringing out a deep rich color. Ager also works well on black granite, enhancing the color and making the grey color disappear.

Stones that have a shiny polished surface are generally not as absorbent as stones that are honed or textured, but still need to be sealed. Kitchen countertops are primarily polished granite. Tenax Proseal is recommended for this type of application and offers protection up to five years. Proseal fills the microscopic pores of the stone and protects the stone from oil and water stains, without changing the natural color of the stone or leaving a film on the surface.

For large stone floor surfaces, Tenax Hydrex sealer offers protection from water, oil and other stains. Hydrex sealer operates on the surface, preventing liquids from penetrating into the material, while still allowing the stone to breath. It does not change the color of the stone and can be used on any polished stone. Hydrex works well on marble thresholds, windowsills and granite countertops.

It is important to prevent stains before they happen. Keep your stone looking as good as the day it was installed by maintaining and sealing it yearly. Polished surfaces can also be waxed, which also gives an extra layer of protection, especially against water spots. The friendly staff at Island Stone Center can assist you with your stone maintenance needs, and has all stone maintenance products in stock.

ADDRESS: 1111 DILLINGHAM BLVD. #E-1B (in the Kokea Shopping Center near Subway)
CONTACT: 848-0989
WEBSITE: www.islandstonecenter.com