Stone is a beautiful and durable material that adds a touch of elegance to any space. However, over time, stones can lose their original luster and appear dull and dull. Fortunately, there are effective solutions to restore life and shine to these mineral surfaces. In this article, we’ll explore how to revive the shine of stone using a water repellent with a wet look.

Why does a stone terrace mattify?

Before discussing solutions to revive the shine of stones, it is important to understand why stones lose their natural shine. To understand why this happens, let’s look at two key factors that contribute to a stone patio matting.

Wear and tear due to weather and prolonged exposure

The first reason a stone deck may dull is wear and tear caused by weather and prolonged exposure to outdoor elements. Sun, rain, wind and temperature variations can all play a role in deteriorating the stone surface. The sun’s UV rays can cause the stone to discolor, while rain and humidity can encourage the growth of mold and lichens. Corrosive elements present in the air, such as atmospheric pollution, can also attack the stone and contribute to its mattification. Over time, these factors combined result in a dull, tired appearance of the stone patio.

Accumulation of dirt, dust and residue

Another major factor that leads to the dulling of a stone patio is the accumulation of dirt, dust and various residues. Dust and dirt particles settle on the surface of the stone over time, creating a dull haze that obscures its shine. Additionally, organic residue such as leaves, branches, plant debris and food stains can also contribute to stone matting. When these elements build up and are not cleaned regularly, they can penetrate the pores of the stone and alter its surface, making it dull and dull.

What are the solutions to restore the shine to stones?

When your natural stones lose their luster and become dull, there are several effective solutions to revive them and restore their original shine. Here are some options to consider:

Deep clean

The first step to restoring the shine to your stones is a deep cleaning. Use a cleaner specifically designed for natural stone and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You can use a soft brush or pressure washer to remove dirt, deposits and residue that have built up over time. Be careful not to use harsh chemicals that could damage the stone.

Perform polishing

Polishing is an effective technique for reviving the shine of tarnished stones. Use a polish suitable for your type of stone and apply it following the manufacturer’s instructions. Polishing will help remove scratches and imperfections from the surface of the stone, restoring its smooth, shiny appearance. You can use a polishing pad or an electric polisher to get better results.

Apply a water repellent solution with wet effect

Water-repellent solutions with wet effect are specially designed to restore the shine of stones. They penetrate the pores of the stone, creating a protective barrier that prevents the absorption of water and harmful substances. At the same time, these solutions give the stone a wet look, accentuating its natural colors and restoring its original shine. The advantages of these solutions are multiple: they protect the stone from future damage, facilitate cleaning and maintenance, and extend the life of the stone.

ProtectGuard EM Premium, the long-lasting wetting effect water repellent

At Guard Industrie, we have developed ProtectGuard EM Premium, a water and oil repellent protector with a wet look appearance. In a single application with a roller, the product provides a lasting protective effect to the coating against water and dirt.

ProtectGuard EM Premium also gives the stone a very intense and long-lasting “wet effect” appearance. The treatment enhances and revives the original color of the material.

ProtectGuard EM Premium is a very versatile product: it can be used indoors and outdoors on porous natural stone floors and terraces (travertine, Bavarian stone, blue stone, marble, sandstone, etc.), reconstituted stone tiles, paving stones or concrete slabs., terracotta tiles, cement…

Our  water-repellent wetting effect product  is in stock on our e-commerce store at the price of €81.72.

How to apply a wetting effect water repellent?

Apply to a well-cleaned surface, the key to success

Before wondering how to apply water repellent to patio , it is essential to ensure that the surface is clean, dry and free of dust. The cleaning process is of utmost importance, as it promotes deep penetration of the product, thus guaranteeing its effectiveness and the final result of the treatment.

On new stone, apply a fine construction site cleaner to eliminate the cement joint laitance. On an old stone, apply a degreasing cleaner to remove stains and dirt. Once the surface has been prepared, rinse the support with water and allow to dry well before applying the protection to the support.

Be careful not to use corrosive or inappropriate products for cleaning as this could damage the stone.

Good to know: We sell a range of cleaners dedicated to cleaning stone in the store (degreaser cleaner, cement residue cleaner, foam cleaner)

Steps to follow for effective water repellent application

• Carry out a test on the stone before application.
• Apply the water-repellent solution following the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a brush or roller to evenly cover the surface of the stone.
• Be sure to pull the product out well and not leave streaks or puddles. Wipe or polish the product to make it penetrate evenly.
• Allow the water-repellent solution to work for the time recommended by the manufacturer. During this period, avoid exposure to water or humidity, as this may compromise the effectiveness of the product.

How to maintain the stone?

It is crucial to maintain the stone regularly in order to preserve its beauty and long-term durability. To care for your natural stone, it is recommended to adopt a regular cleaning routine using gentle, non-abrasive products such as neutral detergent or black soap. It is important to avoid the use of harsh chemicals such as ammonia or acid-based cleaners as they can cause damage to the stone. It is best to opt for cleaners specifically designed for natural stone, which are formulated to preserve its quality and appearance. By taking care to regularly clean your stone with suitable products, you will contribute to its longevity and you will be able to enjoy its natural beauty for many years.

Good to know: We sell a range of detergents/soaps for stone maintenance in the store.