Why Applying Silicon Impregnator to Wet Marble is a Bad Idea

Why Applying Silicon Impregnator to Wet Marble is a Bad Idea

Stone restoration contractors who are ready to pack up and call it a day may be tempted to apply silicon impregnator before stone dries out. This is a bad idea, for several reasons. 

Fred Hueston, Chief Technical Director of Surface Care Pros and owner of Stone Forensics explains, “After grinding, honing, and polishing, wait until the stone is completely dry before applying a silicon impregnator. This is very important, since applying an impregnator to a wet floor may cause spotting and shading. The wet areas of the stone will also not be properly sealed.”

Spotting and Shading

Spotting and shading is a discoloration or unevenness on the surface of a stone floor that occurs when silicon impregnator has been applied to a wet floor, applied improperly, or applied to a floor that has natural variations in porosity. The problem will be more noticeable in the areas that are more porous, since that is where the stone is holding more moisture.

Hueston adds, “The average drying time is about 24 hours depending on temperature and humidity. To speed up the drying of the stone, place several fans on the floor. The stone should dry in several hours at which time you may apply the impregnator.”

Learn More

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.