Advantages of Not Using Limestone Sealer

A limestone sealer is usually advertised as a product that will prevent the entry of water and/or oil on the pores of a limestone tile or limestone slab. While it is ideal to seal limestone installed in certain areas, most limestone applications do not require a limestone sealer. Walkways or foot paths lined with limestone usually become dirty when unsealed. This is because dirt and other debris get into the pores of the stone material and turn into a nasty looking surface. However, limestone installed in walls and other areas that are not usually stained or dirtied can be left as is without using a limestone sealer. Here are some advantages of not using limestone sealer.

1. Preserves Natural Beauty and Color of Limestone

Limestone provides natural beauty that adds decorative quality to where it is installed. When a limestone sealer is used to coat the material, it will loose its natural color and look more artificial. Furthermore, sealers have a tendency to cause discoloration. Poor limestone sealer products cause the limestone to turn into a nasty yellowish color.

2. Preserves the Breathable Quality of Limestone

Unsealed limestone is breathable, meaning that it allows vapor to enter and escape its pores. When a sealer is applied, water may be repelled, but moisture may find its way into the pores of the limestone and escaping will not be easy. When moisture is trapped inside the stone, it increases the risk of damage. It can soften the stone and cause cracks especially when the temperature rises. However, an unsealed limestone will allow moisture to enter its pores, but will also allow it to easily escape, therefore decreasing the chances of damage.

3. Lessens Maintenance Costs

Limestone on walls does not really need to be sealed because it does not get in frequent contact with acids and other harmful contaminants. Therefore the cost is lessened because it does not require constant sealing. Remember that topical sealers need to be replaced every once in a while. If the limestone does get stained, it only requires a few natural cleaning agents to get the stain out.

In addition, some limestone sealers can be easily scratched because they are softer than the limestone itself. When scratch marks are produced in sealed limestone, this requires additional maintenance cost because the entire coating needs to be rebuffed or replaced.

4. It Makes the Limestone More Durable

Limestone in itself is durable. However, when treated with sealers, especially those that are permanent, it will require constant chemical treatment especially when the sealer needs to be replaced or removed. Constant chemical cleaning and sealer removal will definitely make the limestone more susceptible to damage.

5. Helps the Environment

Some chemicals used in limestone sealer products may have negative effects on the environment. Impregnators, for example, cause toxic vapors to be released in the environment after use.

Source: www.DoItYourself.com