STONE, CERAMIC & TERRAZZO
compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere, with a negative, toxic impact on the environment.
Advances in technology have resulted in a new breed of impregnating water-based sealers that are equal to or superior to their solvent-based equivalents. They offer excellent durability, quick drying times and the emission of less odour. Not all water- based sealers contain zero solvents. Many contain ‘co-solvents’ – solvents present in lower concentrations that are meant to help push the rest of the water out of the coating as it dries. But since water-based solutions have either no solvents, or considerably less solvents, both provide a safer alternative to a traditional sealer.
Once applied and cured, water and solvent-based sealers function in a similar fashion. They are both tough, durable and they provide stain protection, so various spillages can be removed before permanent staining occurs. They are each typically available in fully formulated, ready-to-apply liquids and are easy to apply. But one key difference between them is their appearance: solvent-based sealers tend to be clear as the sealer polymer and the solvent form a continuous clear solution, whereas water-based sealers appear milky white. This is because the polymers are present as separate particles and scatter visible light differently than the water in which they are dispersed.
THE BENEFITS There are many benefits offered by an impregnating water-based sealer. They include:
Low VOC’s: Water-based sealers are much safer. They are less toxic and much less harmful to the environment and human health.
Low odour: As well as providing a safer, more comfortable application, there is no risk of odour tainting carpets and soft fabrics.
UV resistance: Water-based sealers are fully transparent to UV light, so they don’t undergo the photochemical breakdown experienced by some more UV-absorbent solvent-based sealers. This UV resistance can lead to greater longevity and protection.
Handling and safety: Water-based sealers are non-hazardous for transport and shipping and are non-flammable.
Storage: There are far less stringent rules for the storage of water-based sealers, which saves time and money. (There is a vast amount of administration involved in the storage of hazardous products, including completion of comprehensive paperwork and the requirement for secure fireproof locked containers.)
Coverage: As a general rule, water-based sealers tend to go further than solvent-based sealers, with a typical extra coverage of between 10 and 20% on most surfaces.
ONGOING MAINTENANCE Maintenance requirements will differ depending on the type of stone or tile, its location and traffic. In general, we recommend day-to-day cleaning with a quality pH-neutral solution. This is particularly important with natural stone, which can be acid sensitive; everyday surface cleaners, even popular eco-brands, are often acidic and can damage the stone, grout joint and any sealer applied. Likewise, natural cleaning hacks made from
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ingredients like lemon and soda should also be avoided for the same reason. For stone walls and floors, we recommend ECOPROTEC Natural Stone & Porcelain Aftercare Cleaner and ECOPROTEC Multi-purpose Cleaner.
Tiles should be cleaned on a regular basis to avoid an accumulation of dirt and residue. In general, floors in commercial settings should be cleaned daily and domestic floors on a weekly basis. All ECOPROTEC cleaning solutions are suitable for scrubber/dryer machines used in commercial environments.
Externally, paths and patios will benefit from a thorough clean every couple of months or so with ECOPROTEC Intensive Cleaner – ideally, twice during the winter and three times during late spring/summer. Regular cleaning of inside-to-outside surfaces, like those that run through bifold doors, will also help maintain a seamless aesthetic.
PROMOTING SUSTAINABILITY In addition to the eco-benefits provided by a good regime – and by switching to water-based solutions – choosing products that are manufacturing and packaged sustainably is also vital. At ECOPROTEC, our own initiatives include:
• Minimising waste disposal throughout production and reusing pallets.
• Sourcing cardboard packaging from FSC accredited suppliers. • Using recyclable bottles made from recycled materials.
And, over the next five years, our own goal at ECOPROTEC is for 75% of our production to be of water-based, non- hydrocarbon formulations. The tile and stone industry still needs encouragement to support this strategy but the environmental benefits are irrefutable.
For more advice, browse ECOPROTEC TV on YouTube, contact the ECOPROTEC team direct on 01823 666213 or email
technical@ecoprotec.co.uk
https://www.youtube.com/@ecoprotec4356
www.ecoprotec.co.uk 27
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