Yes, it is generally an excellent idea to seal Indian sandstone to protect its appearance and longevity.
Indian sandstone is a popular choice for paving and landscaping due to its natural beauty and varied colours. However, its one major drawback is its porous nature. This characteristic makes the material susceptible to absorbing moisture, dirt, and organic growth, making regular maintenance and cleaning often essential. An application of an Indian sandstone sealer can significantly help protect the surface, safeguarding it against common issues.
Why Sealing Indian Sandstone is Beneficial
Applying a suitable sandstone paving sealer offers numerous advantages, primarily by creating a protective barrier that mitigates the material's inherent porosity. This protective layer helps to preserve the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of the stone over time.
Key Benefits of Sealing:
- Protection Against Staining: Due to its porous structure, Indian sandstone can easily absorb liquids, leading to unsightly stains from spilled drinks, oil, or rust. A sealer reduces this absorption, making spills easier to clean up before they can set.
- Prevention of Organic Growth: The sealer helps protect against common organic invaders such as dirt, algae, and general staining. Algae, moss, and lichen thrive in damp, porous environments. By sealing the stone, you create a less hospitable surface for these growths, reducing their ability to root and spread.
- Easier Maintenance and Cleaning: Sealed surfaces are smoother and less likely to trap dirt and grime. This makes routine cleaning much simpler and less time-consuming, often requiring just a rinse or a light scrub instead of harsh chemical treatments.
- Enhanced Durability and Longevity: By preventing water ingress and the growth of organisms that can break down the stone over time, sealing contributes to the overall durability and extended lifespan of your Indian sandstone paving.
- Colour Enhancement (Optional): Some sealers are designed to subtly enhance the natural colours of the sandstone, giving it a richer, more vibrant look without creating an artificial sheen.
When and How to Seal Indian Sandstone
For optimal results, proper preparation and application are crucial when sealing Indian sandstone.
Best Practices for Sealing:
- Clean Thoroughly First: Before applying any sealer, ensure the sandstone is completely clean and free from any dirt, efflorescence, existing stains, or organic growth. Using a professional stone cleaner designed for natural stone is recommended.
- Ensure Dryness: The stone must be completely dry before sealing. Any trapped moisture can prevent the sealer from bonding correctly and may lead to a hazy appearance or poor performance. Allow several dry days after cleaning, especially if using a pressure washer.
- Choose the Right Sealer: There are various types of sealers available, including impregnating (penetrating) sealers and topical (surface) sealers. Penetrating sealers soak into the stone, providing protection without altering its appearance, while topical sealers form a film on the surface, which can sometimes enhance colour or add a slight sheen. For Indian sandstone, a breathable impregnating sealer is often preferred to maintain its natural look and allow moisture vapour to escape.
- Apply Evenly: Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Apply the sealer evenly using a roller, brush, or sprayer. Avoid over-application, as this can lead to sticky residues or an uneven finish.
- Allow for Curing: Give the sealer adequate time to cure as per the manufacturer's guidelines before resuming normal use of the sealed area.
By taking these steps, you can significantly prolong the beauty and integrity of your Indian sandstone surfaces, making them easier to maintain and more resistant to the elements.
