Protect travertine against Salt Efflorescence

Efflorescence manifests as a crystalline salt deposit, presenting as a white plaque with a powdery texture on porous travertine and masonry surfaces. It stands as the most prevalent salt-related concern.

Water laden with dissolved salts permeates the stone from all angles, absorbing into its pores and gradually making its way to the surface. Upon evaporation, the salts are left behind, forming fresh efflorescence. Initially, this residue can often be brushed away with a dry brush. However, as time passes, the salts react with the air, solidifying and becoming increasingly stubborn to remove. In such cases, resorting to acid washing or grinding may be necessary for effective removal.

Several factors can contribute to efflorescence, such as:

• Moist conditions
• Condensation
• Rain or dew
• Groundwater
• Low temperatures

Salt spalling is a particular form of weathering observed in travertine, akin to efflorescence. Dissolved salt travels within water through the material and crystallizes near the surface as the water evaporates.

A high-quality exterior-grade sealer effectively prevents salt spalling. GOLD, when correctly applied, boasts a lifespan of up to 15 years. This deep-penetrating sealer permeates below the stone's surface, filling voids and preventing water migration, thereby averting salt accumulation. Furthermore, this sealer preserves the original color and texture of your travertine.

Some types of travertine contain significant amounts of salts. As water permeates through the pores of the travertine, it dissolves these salts, leading to the formation of empty spaces and compromising the structural integrity of the stone. Salt leaching can happen in any moist environment.

Applying a high-quality water-repellent deep impregnating sealer to travertine offers protection and extends its lifespan, particularly in environments with salt water like around a saltwater pool or near a beach.

In regions with saltwater exposure, it's advisable to seal travertine on all six sides or even opt for dip sealing before installation. Impregnating sealers penetrate deep into the pore structure, forming a robust water-resistant barrier, effectively preventing water and dissolved salts from permeating the stone.

Avoid using topical coatings that block the pores, as they can trap water within the material and create a dangerously slippery surface when wet.

A deep penetrating sealer will not compromise the slip resistance of your travertine surfaces.

penetrating sealer acts as a barrier against water absorption while enabling travertine to release any accumulated vapor. Unsealed surfaces, which retain moisture, may lead to efflorescence formation as the moisture evaporates.

penetrating, impregnating sealer effectively seeps beneath the surface of travertine or masonry, seamlessly filling voids and halting water migration. This proactive approach deters salt accumulation within the stone, ensuring its longevity and pristine appearance.

It will deeply penetrate the pore structure of travertine, establishing a robust water-resistant barrier that effectively repels water and dissolved salts, ensuring superior protection against moisture infiltration.

Select a reputable company with specialized equipment and expertise to properly seal and maintain your travertine after installation.

Maintain cleanliness of your sealed travertine, promptly wipe up spills, and clean periodically.

Professional cleaning not only eliminates surface dirt but also extracts deeply embedded dirt within the pores of travertine.

Reach out to a professional stone floor maintenance company equipped with the necessary tools and expertise to ensure your valuable surfaces meet your expectations.

Tile Cleaners and StoneMaster are part of a network of independent Accredited Applicators extensively trained in the proper application of travertine care products. They offer comprehensive services, including thorough cleaning of the travertine area, product application, and post-treatment care.

• Tile Cleaners Australia specializes in tile and grout cleaning, sealing, stripping, resealing, regrouting, grout color sealing, and minor tile repairs, making them Australia's leading tile care provider.
• StoneMaster adopts a diagnostic approach to each unique situation, conducting a full analysis and selecting the best restoration method, followed by maintenance procedures to ensure outstanding results.

It's crucial to thoroughly clean your travertine before sealing to prevent sealing in old stains or embedded dust and debris, which would require stripping and resealing.

Using an unsuitable or low-quality sealer may result in travertine surfaces that don't meet your satisfaction.