|
By Burton Fletcher
Investigating the use of sealers on granite, I contacted a
supplier to the monument industry, who referred us to Tom
Robinson, Executive Vice President of the Elberton Granite
Association (EGA). Mr. Robinson advised that EGA recommend
against using sealers on the surfaces of granite to be placed
outside, as it will create problems.
Robinson cautioned, “applying a sealer to the surface of
granite has not been successful. The chemical will never
penetrate evenly, and, as a result, the stone will look
blotchy at best and horrible most of the time.” There are
exceptions.
Robinson said, “We do endorse putting a sealer on the bottom
of your bases and the joints of your dyes. The product is
called ‘joint and bottom sealer,’ [and] it’s available from
any of the local suppliers. It’s clear and goes on easy with a
small paintbrush. It dries in about 20 minutes. Do not apply
the sealer to any other surface. Make sure the sealer is dry
before handling in the belts of the crane. If you don't, you
will eventually have a sticky mess.”
Knowing when and when not to use products is an essential part
of the monument profession. If you are not sure what to do, it
is better to ask.
Burton Fletcher, with over 20 years business experience, owns
ValdostaMemorials.com. He is a licensed memorialist in Georgia and Florida. He enjoys genealogy and
visiting and studying Southern monuments. Reach Burton at
229.245.8858 or
Burton@ValdostaMemorials.com |
