Why Cleaning Is Key to Best Lasting Stone Sealer

Posted on September 9, 2025 by TSS Pro Sealants

Cleaning Is the First Step to a Great Seal

If you skip cleaning before sealing stone, tile, or concrete surfaces you’ll waste time and money. No matter how good a sealant is it won’t work properly if the surface underneath isn’t clean. Dirt, stains, hard water residue, efflorescence, and old deposits prevent the sealant from bonding well.

moldy stone deck - cleaning

What Is TSSPRO 10C and When to Use It

If your stone or tile has built up deposits like rust, lime, scale, efflorescence, or hard water buildup the right place to start is with TSSPRO 10C. This is a professional strength cleaner and descaler that digs into the pores of the material and removes those stubborn contaminants. Applying it before sealing ensures the surface is properly prepared and allows the sealant to last longer.

General Cleaning with TSSPRO 15N

After using a heavy cleaner like 10C you should balance the stone back to a neutral pH and remove any leftover grime. That’s where TSSPRO 15N comes in. This phosphate free cleaner is safe for natural stone and prevents new dirt and deposits from sticking. It’s also great for surfaces that don’t need deep cleaning, handling grease and everyday grime effectively.

Why Cleaning First Matters

Sealant must bond directly with the surface. If dirt or salts are in the way that bond is weak and the sealant won’t perform as promised. Trying to seal over deposits allows moisture to keep moving under the sealer which can cause discoloration and blotchy results. Clean stone or concrete means the sealant lasts longer and requires less maintenance.

How to Clean Correctly Before Sealing

Start by inspecting the surface for stains, lime scale, and efflorescence. Use TSSPRO 10C to remove tough deposits, following safety directions and rinsing well. Make sure no residue remains before moving forward. Next apply TSSPRO 15N to neutralize the surface and remove leftover grime. Once everything is rinsed and fully dry the surface is ready for sealing.

Tips for Best Results

Work on a dry day with no rain in the forecast so the surface can dry out properly. Always test a small spot first to see how the material reacts. Use the right tools like brushes, sprayers, or pressure washers depending on the stone type. Allow enough time for the surface to dry all the way through before applying sealant.

Problems That Happen When Cleaning Is Skipped

Sealant can peel or fail to adhere. Water may soak into the stone instead of beading up. Stains or rust left behind will show through after sealing. The sealer itself won’t last as long and will need to be reapplied sooner, which means wasted time and expense.

Conclusion

Cleaning is the foundation of every successful sealing job. Using a heavy duty cleaner like TSSPRO 10C followed by a neutralizer like TSSPRO 15N prepares the surface so sealants can bond properly and last. Taking the extra step to clean ensures better adhesion, stronger protection, and results that make your work stand out.