Granite tombstones are the first choice among tombstone materials because of their durability and beauty. However, although granite is hard, its surface may fade, darken, or grow moss under long-term exposure to wind, sun, and rain. In order to extend the service life of granite tombstones, the use of sealers is particularly important. So, which sealer is best for granite tombstones?
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Penetrating Sealer
Penetrating sealers are the sealers widely recommended for granite tombstones on the market. Its main function is to penetrate into the pores of the stone to form a waterproof barrier, thereby effectively preventing moisture, oil, and other contaminants from penetrating into the stone. Compared with surface sealers, penetrating sealers do not change the appearance and gloss of granite, retaining the natural beauty of the stone. In addition, penetrating sealers usually have a long service life and usually only need to be reapplied every few years.
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Topical Sealer
Topical sealers mainly form a protective film on the surface of granite to resist the intrusion of water, oil and stains. The advantage of this sealer is that it can enhance the gloss of the stone and change its color to a certain extent, making it more vivid. However, compared with penetrating sealers, topical sealers are less durable and need to be reapplied more frequently. In addition, the sealant may crack or peel off under high temperature or strong sunlight.
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Hybrid Sealer
Hybrid sealers combine the advantages of penetrating and topical sealers. They can not only penetrate into the stone to form a protective barrier, but also form a protective film on the surface. This sealer is suitable for users who want to protect the inside of the stone and enhance the gloss of the surface. Although hybrid sealers seem perfect, they are usually more expensive and relatively difficult to apply.
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How To Choose the Right Sealant
When choosing a sealant for a granite tombstone, users need to consider the following factors:
- Climate conditions: If the climate in the area where the tombstone is located is humid, it is recommended to choose a penetrating sealant, which can more effectively prevent moisture from penetrating into the stone.
- Stone color: For dark granite, using a surface sealant can enhance its gloss; while light granite is more suitable for using a penetrating sealant to maintain its natural color.
- Maintenance cycle: If you don’t want to maintain the tombstone frequently, a penetrating sealant is a good choice, which usually takes a long time to reapply.
In general, a penetrating sealant is the best choice for granite tombstones because it can effectively protect the internal structure of the stone, prevent the intrusion of moisture and pollutants, and maintain the natural beauty of the tombstone. Of course, depending on specific needs, hybrid sealants and surface sealants also have their applicable scenarios. When choosing a sealant, you should consider the material of the tombstone, environmental conditions, and personal preferences to ensure that the tombstone remains beautiful and strong in the years to come.
