Why should I use MarbleSeal’s solutions?
Marble and limestone are composed of calcite, which is highly sensitive to acid spills, such as food acids. Acid reacts with calcite in stone in a destructive chemical reaction. This chemical reaction is called "acid etching". The surface of the stone becomes uneven, less glossy and discolored. In addition, some types of marble and limestone are so porous and susceptible to staining that water will create stains on the counters made from them. Our solutions will protect all porous stones from stains and etching and create a seamless and hygienic work surface.
I have used a different stone sealer on my counter top. Why won't this protect it?
Impregnating type stone sealers will help protect stone from staining for a limited time, but they will never protect stone from etching. Impregnating sealers are absorbed into the stone leaving the surface open to degradation. Impregnating sealers are inherently not chemically resistant to acid attack.
Stone sealers are not guaranteed to be stain proof, they are said to be stain resistant. Some will protect longer than others; however, they will always require reapplication.
Our solutions protect against staining and etching, does not need to be reapplied and will last at least 10 years.
My stone counter top is badly stained, can it be fixed?
Yes. Before our solution is applied to a surface, the stone is ground with diamond pads and sandpaper to remove all evidence of staining as well as etching. Only a small amount of the stone's surface is removed, usually about 1/100 of an inch.
My stone counter top has chipped edges, can these be fixed?
Yes, however defects such as chipped edges will have to be repaired before our solution is applied.
How long will my protective coating last?
Our solutions can last 10+ years against stains and etching and do not need to be periodically reapplied to maintain its effectiveness.
Will the coating affect the look of my stone surface?
No, the coating is a water clear, non-yellowing and enhances the look of the stone. It does not look artificial or plastic. The coating can be polished to either a honed or high gloss finish.
Can I change the finish after it's been applied?
Yes, we can easily change the finish from honed to high gloss or vice versa by an approved applicator, such as MarbleSeal Technologies. We can make the change numerous times before the integrity of the coating is compromised. Contact your local MarbleSeal representative for assistance.
Is it scratch proof?
Our solutions are scratch resistant but NOT scratch proof. RAKU is the the most scratch resistant product on the market and Alurex is the most scratch resistant UV cured product on the market. Scratches may occur; however, they can easily be removed. Usually, after 7 - 10 years, normal wear and tear will require that the surface get a "touch up" to remove minor scratches. These are easily removed by an approved applicator such as MarbleSeal Technologies. Contact your local representative for assistance.
Is it impact resistant?
The coating has additives in the formula which improve the coating's resistance to both impact and thermal shock.
Can hot pots and pans be placed stone that has been coated?
RAKU can withstand up to 1200 degrees, so it is heat resistant to direct heat.
Alurex and Marble Armor contain additives which make it heat resistant, it is not recommended to place hot pans or dishes directly on the coating. Use of a protective pad is always recommended.
How soon can I begin using my new surface?
If you choose Alurex or Marble Armor the surface can be used immediately after it is has been installed. It is completely resistant to chemicals at that point. It is also hard enough for daily use.
If you opt for RAKU, it will dry within 2 hours and plumbing can be reinstalled. However, it will take 12 hours to fully cure, so recommend waiting to use the kitchen until then.
Does my granite need to be coated?
No, due to its molecular composition it is unnecessary for our solutions to be applied to granite.