Sealer Guide
Posted on September 11, 2019
There are many kinds of sealers that are used on limestone and cement tile. Find the right sealer may depend on the individual product and the type of stain resistance you are looking for. Like natural stones, cement tiles are porous and therefore need to be sealed to avoid staining. Penetrating sealers coat the cement particles in the tile making it less likely they will retain stains. Topical sealers create a barrier on the surface of the tile so that stains do not reach the cement. Topical sealers have different finishes: shiny and matte.
Solvent Base Penetrating Sealers
Solvent based sealers are powerful sealers that use a solvent to penetrate deep into the stone or cement tile. Examples of common solvent based sealers are Dry Treat Stain Proof and Miracle Porous Plus. These sealers contain polymers that fill the microscopic pores inside the tile to primarily provide resistance against liquids and salts (efflorescence). The chemical reaction bonds active ingredients within the substrate blocking surface moisture. Penetrating sealers generally do not significantly modify substrate appearance or traction. Types of polymers used in solvent based penetrating sealers include Silane, Silicates, Siliconates, and Siloxane. Siloxane is the largest molecular compound of commonly available penetrating sealers.
Water Based Sealers
Water based sealers have been developed for VOC compliance and can often work well on unsealed tile where only a topical coating is needed. Since the sealer is water based, the stain blocking molecules are not easily transferred deep into the tile as would a solvent. Many professionals use water-based sealers for the ease of use.
Acrylic Sealers
Acrylic sealers form a topical film or membrane on the substrate surface. They are available in both water-based and solvent-based formulas. Acrylic sealers are known to enhance the look of concrete tile and often give a wet look. Acrylic sealers are softer than other sealers but are very effective at providing a stain blocking barrier that prevents stains from ever reaching the tile. They are well known to increase perceived visual enhancement (sometimes described as a “wet look”). Acrylic sealers are commonly used on stained concrete floors and provide good stain resistance against sealers. Two weaknesses of Acrylic sealers are scratching and efflorescence. Since the acrylic sealers are topical, they act as a sacrificial coating. That means they sit on the surface of the tile and can be scratched by abrasive activity. In areas of hardwater or salts in the soil, acrylics can trap efflorescence in the surface of the tile. They do require some skill and may require stripping and reapplication if re-sealed in the future.
Wax Sealers
Wax sealers are wax bases sealers that are suitable for floors. Wax sealers are not recommended for wet areas or for exterior use as they may become slippery. Fila Wax sealer, Minwax Paste Finishing Wax, Tenex Clear Paste Wax are examples of common waxes used for cement tile. Wax sealers increase the luster of the tile and also protect your tile well by providing a physical barrier to stains. They do require some skill and may require stripping and reapplication.
Disclaimer
Cement tile is porous and susceptible to staining if not properly sealed. Presidio Tile does not warranty stains or stain resistance. It is the purchaser’s responsibility to properly install, seal, and maintain this product. Cement tile requires expert installation and sealing. Presidio Tile does not warranty any tile installation and is not responsible for any installation costs that might result from a warranty issue. Your tile may have received a pre-seal for pre-installation protection however this does not constitute a final seal or stain resistance of any type. Cement tile may require multiple coats of a professional grade sealer approved for cement tile. There are multiple types of sealers for cement tile each with their benefits and risks including water-based, solvent-based, acrylic sealers, and wax sealers. Please consult an expert to find out what sealer is best for your individual needs. Presidio Tile is not a sealer manufacture and does not sell, supply, or warranty sealers.