Why Sealing a Shower FLOOR is Not Recommended
When it comes to maintaining your stone shower, conventional wisdom might suggest that sealing both the walls and floor is the best way to protect the stone from water damage and staining. However, this is not entirely true, especially for the shower floor. While sealing the walls of a stone shower can be beneficial, sealing the floor can lead to unforeseen problems, primarily due to trapped moisture.Stone is Naturally Porous
Stone, a natural and porous material, is often chosen for shower floors due to its aesthetic appeal and durability. These pores, while microscopic, are essential for the stone to ‘breathe’, allowing moisture to evaporate naturally. When you seal a stone shower floor, you effectively trap moisture beneath the surface. This is particularly problematic in a high-moisture environment like a shower. Unlike walls, which have time to dry out and are not constantly underfoot, the floor is regularly exposed to water and pressure.Discoloration and Damage
Moisture entrapment creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew to thrive. These not only pose a health risk but can also cause a musty odor and further discolor the stone. Trapped moisture can lead to discoloration, a common issue with sealed stone floors. In extreme cases, the trapped moisture can also weaken the stone, leading to cracking and chipping.In Conclusion
By following these tips, you should be able to keep your travertine shower looking its best. If you have any more questions or need further advice, feel free to reach out to us.By Fred Hueston. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.