Travertine Sealer
Travertine is very popular because there is a large selection of styles for you to select from for virtually any home project. Some travertine has embedded shells and others have specific swirl patterns.
There is great texture and depth to using travertine. However, because travertine is so porous in many areas a good travertine sealer is important to your project.
Protection
Travertine sealer is a terrific method to protect the stone. It will fill in the holes and pours of the stone without causing the stone to loose its textures and natural designs. This in turn keeps the stone cleaner and less likely to grown mold and mildew should it be exposed to moisture.
Cleaning
Travertine sealing will make cleaning the stone much easier. The sealant is a protection from accidental seals and creates a nice barrier. When the stone needs cleaning, you are less likely to damage it since it has been properly sealed.
Discoloration
There is less discoloration after years of use in the home when the travertine is sealed. The sealant helps to protect the stone and thus the end result is less discoloration and fading. This means that your travertine projects will hold up longer and remain their beautiful colors and natural pattern designs.
Selecting a Travertine Sealer
There are many different travertine sealers available at your local paint or home improvement store. It can seem challenging to select the right type of sealer for your project. Ask the sales associate questions in regards to how the travertine is being used in your home.
Some sealers are specifically for water proofing and would be used in areas such as kitchens and showers. Others are designed for high traffic and would be used in areas such as dens, hallways and living rooms.
Depending on the area that the travertine is placed in the home will determine which type of travertine sealer is going to be best for the project and offer the most protection.
Curing the Grout
It is extremely important before applying any sealer that you cure the grout. The grout should be set and in place for a minimum of seventy-two hours prior to starting the sealing part of the project. This allows the grout time to completely dry and completely set. The seventy-two hours should start after the grout has been cleaned and not from the time that you initially put the grout in.
Cleaning the Travertine Surface
Sealing means that everything on the travertine surface will be sealed. Many people do not think about this aspect and assume that any little spots or even grout film can be cleaned at later date. They just simply get in too big of a hurry. Be certain that the travertine surface is thoroughly cleaned and dry before you begin sealing it.
Test Area
Test a small area of the travertine in a low visibility spot. You want to be sure that the sealant that you bought is not going to leave any type of staining. It would be horrible to do an entire section and then realize that the particular brand you purchased reacted with the stone.
Test a small area and allow it to set for a minimum of forty-eight hours before doing the entire area. If there is no negative reaction with the travertine, complete the rest of the area and the project.
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