5 Simple Steps to Protect Your Exterior Stonework From Nature

Natural stone is one of the most aged building materials familiar to man. Many architects prefer it for commercial and institutional applications because of its beauty, durability, long life cycle, and low maintenance requirements. Homeowners are now looking for the same features in new homes and remodels. With a larger consumer base than ever before, there are some simple yet essential steps to protect your exterior stonework to maintain natural stones.

This article will focus on the underappreciated role that proper maintenance plays in the long-term success of residential stone installations.

What Causes Damage To Exterior Stone?

Stone, like glass, metal, and any other component of your structure, is susceptible to the elements. Rain and air pollution are two of the most common causes of damage to stone building facades. Both air and rain bring a variety of contaminants and minerals that can cause stones to deteriorate over time. 

Chemicals such as sulphates, for example, can be transferred to the rock by air and rain, resulting in acidic mixes that slowly eat away at the stone. If left unchecked, rust will degrade the aesthetic and functionality of your stone exterior and expose other pieces to the outdoors. Such elements increase the overall time and cost you spend following steps to protect your exterior stonework.

Salts present in the rain or the stone itself cause similar problems since untreated or incorrectly installed stone becomes discoloured and ruined over time. Water penetrates the stone, bringing minerals to the surface over time, destroying the pristine aspect of your structure.

Stone is also harmed by snow and ice. Ice can get into crevices and behind the stone where it freezes and thaws, displacing the stone and allowing water into the metal beneath it. This can also cause metal corrosion. Inadequately maintained exterior metal components can also cause long-term damage to your stone by allowing minerals such as rust to penetrate the stone.

Steps to Protect Your Exterior Stonework

The key to preserving a stone exterior in good shape is to start early, maintain the structure on a regular basis, and prevent it from further harm. From limestone to granite, all veneers should be regularly cleaned and inspected. While each cleaning operation is unique, these are some of the most common steps for cleaning stone exteriors of buildings.

Examining The Building

Before anyone can take steps to protect your exterior stonework by cleaning or restoring, they must first determine the most severe problems. They must check to see if the damage is only superficial or more profound. Repairs may be required if substantial damage is discovered.

Improvise A Cleaning Plan

Different cleaning products should be used according to the type of natural stone and the extent of the damage. Many facade stones, for example, are susceptible to acid-based cleansers. Cleaning will aid in the removal of cosmetic harm caused to your stonework.

Restoring The Stone

Buffing, polishing, or other stonework may be required to fix some stone. This phase is critical to restoring your building to its original appearance. It also prepares your stone structure for the next step, which will be vital in the list of steps to protect your exterior stonework.

Protecting For The Future

After your stone exterior has been restored to its former glory, you must preserve it from further harm. A water-repellent sealant will prevent further damage to your structure.

The requirement for sealing and the maintenance supplies and programme required can vary depending on the type of stone and the locality. Sealing your home's exterior stone facade will keep the colours from fading, improve its appearance, and preserve it from the elements. It also simplifies cleaning, lowers maintenance costs, and extends the life of your building.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Stone needs to be cleaned regularly, so plan ahead to avoid more expensive long-term problems. Regular cleaning is often simpler and gentler on the stone than bigger cleaning initiatives.

Why You Should Use Waterproof Sealant For Stone

You can find several sealant brands at your local home improvement store or online. However, read the manufacturer's recommendations to see which one is ideal for your particular stone type before you buy one.

A penetrating sealant is recommended because it will not damage the colour of your stone veneer. It can also last up to five years. In particular, search for a siloxane or silane based sealant, and avoid acid sealants.

When sealing for the first time, two to three coats are recommended. For sealing sandstone walls like porous surfaces, you will need to apply more coatings. You might have to reapply the sealant product every couple of years. Make sure you check its specifications for more details.

Conclusion

You can use stone for the exterior of your home to give it an exquisite look. To stop the beauty of your outside stone from fading quickly, use a stone wall sealer and follow steps to protect your exterior stonework. Following these easy guidelines can help you achieve your goals while saving time and money. You will also be avoiding some of the most common stone blunders.

 

 

 

 

 

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