When marble is installed on floors and countertops, it is typically sealed. The sealant will protect it from moisture and other types of damage. But over time, the sealant may start to wear off. It can be difficult to tell if this is occurring until damage happens. That’s why it’s important to test your marble surfaces regularly. This article will tell you what testing you can do to determine if a resealing is necessary.

The Marble Floor Water Test

The water test involves applying a small amount of water, typically 4-5 drops, to different parts of the stone. Make sure you get various areas of the surface paying special attention to those that get the most wear.

After applying the water, wait 30 minutes. The spots where the moisture was applied may have darkened or the water may have completely absorbed. If the water is absorbed, this is a sign that the seal is not strong. If you notice absorption occurring, you will want to get the marble sealed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

It’s important to note that there is no such thing as over sealing marble. So, if you’re not sure if your sealant is holding up, but it’s been a while since the last sealing, there’s no harm in getting it done again.

Should I Seal the Marble Floor Myself?

If you find that the sealant applied to your stone has weakened, you may be wondering whether you should reseal on your own. After all, this will save on labor costs.

However, if you don’t seal correctly, it could lead to problems. For example, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned before it is sealed. If it’s not, you may end up sealing in dirt and debris.

Sealing prep also includes completely removing the previous sealant from the surface of the stone. If you don’t not remove it, it may cause a haze to appear on the stone’s surface once the sealer dries.

You should also be aware that the sealer is meant to fill the pores and coat the exposed minerals in the stone. It is not supposed to coat the surface.

Another issue is that there are so many types of sealants available. There are various types of coatings and impregnators. The environment the sealant is being installed in will play a major role when it comes to choosing the right one for your needs.

And if you make a wrong move when choosing or applying your sealant, it will be difficult to change it out.

What it really boils down to is, you should not be resealing your marble unless you have extensive experience and professional training doing so.

If you have marble in your home, you want to keep it looking its best. Make sure your sealant is still effective to keep your fixtures protected. Will you be doing the water test to find out if your flooring and counters will withstand the test of time?

If you would like a free estimate on resealing your marble floors, please contact us or call (847) 356-6928