Get Your Home’s Exterior Facade Cleaned & Sealed Professionally!
Stone facades are thin, light weight stone veneers used to enhance the exterior of homes. They are usually less than an inch thick and weigh less than 15 lbs. per sq. ft., allowing them to be installed easily. Each stone facia panel is composed of numerous stones that have been bonded together. The panels join together precisely and enable a substantial surface area to be covered in only a brief amount of time. Stone facades are available in a wide range of styles and colors. In addition to providing aesthetic improvements, stone facades offer insulation against heat and cold to reduce energy costs. Stone facades are relatively low maintenance but some upkeep is needed to prolong their life.
Stone Types Used in Exterior Stone Facades
- Granbury Stone
- Stone Inlay
- Crushed Stone & Quartzite
- Limestone
- Flagstone
- Chopped Granbury
- Limestone
Vulnerabilities of Stone Facia
Stone facades are used on the exterior walls of homes, covering them entirely or in sections to provide accents. They are relatively inexpensive and the variety of styles available makes them quite versatile. Like most natural stone, stone facades are porous and susceptible to weathering from the elements. Wind, rain and UV rays from the sun can fade the color and degrade the materials. Dark colors tend to fade more readily. During the winter, moisture inside the stones can freeze and expand, causing the structure to crack. In warmer climates, water evaporation can leave efflorescence deposits on the surface.
Staining may also occur from contact with rusted screws or anchors supporting the stone facade as well as corroded roof hardware. These stains can often be removed with a commercial rust remover. Dark stains may appear on a stone facade as a result of algae, moss or fungi. Dirt and debris can be carried from the roof by rain and become trapped in the pours of stone. When the water evaporates, the remaining residue will leave a stain on the stone facade. Textured stone has more open pores than polished stone; therefore, it is more prone to staining.
The Benefits of Sealing Stone Facade
Stone facades are sensitive to the environment. That is why you should always seal exterior stone facades Over time, exposure to heat and cold, acid rain and strong winds can break down the materials. Sealing stone facade features will protect it from the elements and preserve its color. In addition, an exterior stone sealant application will prevent contaminants from entering the pores of the stone and inhibit staining. It also deters the absorption of substances that can accelerate the deterioration of the stone. Sealing the stone facade simplifies cleaning and helps lower the cost of maintenance. Sealants are available in both matte and gloss finishes to enhance the colors and beautify the stone on your home’s exterior.
Cleaning and Maintenance for Exterior Stone Facade
Sealing the stone facade makes it much easier to clean. As with most exterior surfaces, dirt and debris will eventually settle on the stone facade and detract from its appearance. A long handled, nylon brush can be used to clean surface dirt from the panels. The remaining soil can be cleaned from the stones by scrubbing with a dilute mixture of stone cleaner and warm water. Cleaning should begin at the top and proceed downward. A garden hose should be used to rinse the panels thoroughly. Most stains caused by biological organisms can be removed with a 50 percent bleach solution. However, we highly recommend having your stone facade professionally cleaned to prevent damage to the stone, plants, and surrounding landscaping.
To provide the optimal protection, stone facades usually require resealing every year or two, depending on the climate. Warmer climates often necessitate more frequent resealing. Texas Stone Sealers provides a three year warranty on both their natural matte and glossy finish sealers. We will reseal it once at no cost should it need to be resealed for any reason while under warranty.
Protect Your Stone Facade Today!
Sealing your home’s exterior stone facade will prevent its colors from fading, enhance its beauty and protect against the harsh environment. It also makes cleaning easier, lowers the cost of maintenance and extends the life of your stone facade. For a free estimate, call Texas Stone Sealers today at 888-275-5354.
