Sealing
Protecting natural stone veneer from moisture, sunlight, and stains is accomplished through the application of a stone sealer. Sealants add a protective layer to your stone while making cleanup and maintenance easier. Stone installed outside or stone that will be exposed to moisture, sunlight, or possible stains should be sealed. The sealant layer helps prevent stains from rain, dirt, or spills. It also reduces the effects of the sun on the colors of the stone.
Water-based sealers are the most popular because they penetrate the stone easier, are easier to apply, and clean up with soap and water. They are typically applied by brush or sprayer, depending upon the surroundings. The surface should be clean and loose chips should be removed. Be sure to test your sealer on some extra pieces or an inconspicuous area and allow it to dry before treating the entire surface. There are two general types of sealers: a dry or natural look sealer that will not impact the appearance of the stone itself and a wet sealer that will provide a glossy look.
The photos below show our standard Galaxy natural stone veneer with and without a sealer. Left: Natural Galaxy with no sealer. Right: Galaxy with a wet sealer application.
