Sealing Exterior Stone Siding: Mistakes to Avoid

Exterior stone siding adds a touch of warmth and luxury to your home. It is also a sizable investment in a home building budget. You can save your investment by preventing accidental mistakes in the application of a sealant over the stone.

Preventing Sealant Choice Mistakes

Choose the best sealant for your situation. Visit your local hardware or home improvement store and speak with a professional about your plans to seal your exterior stone. The sealant you purchase should be designed for exterior stone. Be sure to read the instructions provided by the manufacturer before you begin applying the product.

The sealant will prevent any moisture from penetrating the material. This product has a matte finish and does not change the appearance of the stone. Other sealants that stay on the surface will eventually turn the stone a yellow tone.

Preventing Surface Problems

Be sure the surface of the stone is clean and completely dry. If necessary wash away any dirt or debris from the stone. Make sure the grout between the stones is also free of any dirt. If necessary, use a scrub brush or a broom to remove the dirt. The application process will develop problems if the stone surface has any residue on it.

Preventing Application Mistakes

Ensure you apply an even coat of sealer by using a roller tray. Roll a roller brush through the sealant until the brush is fully loaded. Apply the sealant in only one direction to achieve the best results. Begin at the top of the wall and move downward. Wait two hours and then check to see if there is any excess on the stone. If there is no excess, apply a second coat. If there is excess sealant, wipe it away with an old rag.