Restoring Stone Sealed With a Silicon Impregnator

Every stone restoration contractor knows that when a stone floor or surface is polished, abrasive friction removes the uppermost layer of the stone, revealing the brand new stone underneath. Since the surface of the stone may also be chemically altered or visually changed during this process, it is no wonder, then, that contractors may have concerns about working with stone that has been sealed with a silicon-based impregnator.

Fred Hueston, Chief Technical Director of Surface Care Pros and owner of Stone Forensics explains, “Since polishing affects the surface of the stone only, a silicone impregnator will not be affected.”

However, the original application of impregnator plays a big factor in whether newly honed or polished stone still has enough protection. Was the product applied generously or sparingly? If the product was applied sparingly, Hueston says, “it is possible that the polishing process will remove any sealing properties.”

There are two ways for contractors to approach the situation. They can perform an absorbency test to determine whether a reapplication of impregnator is necessary, or do as Hueston suggests, “As a general rule, it is always a good idea to re-apply impregnator after honing and/or polishing.”

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For more information, register to earn a Stone Restoration Master Course Certificate. You'll learn how to restore natural stone floors, countertops, and walls, engineered stone, and granite floors, using the most efficient and effective restoration procedures. Also included in this program is the Stain Care Pro course with a one-year subscription to the Stain Care Pro app and Understanding Sealers.