How To Remove Sealer From Natural Stone 

Removing the previous coating of sealers on natural stone is necessary for renovating the surface or reapplying sealer. However, many homeowners wonder how to correctly strip the sealer from natural stone.

Sealing and coating remover should be applied liberally on the surface of natural stone using a mop or brush. Ensure that the area is well ventilated, and allow the product to soak for at least one hour. Use a scrub brush to agitate the sealer, rinse, then wipe dry.

There are other important details to understand to efficiently get rid of sealer on natural stone. Read on below to learn more.

Removing Sealer From Natural Stone

Whether you want to renovate or clean up your natural stone, removing its sealer is important. With the right method and materials, you can effectively cut through the sealant to expose the natural stone once again.

What You’ll Need

Removing sealer requires the use of specific products and tools which ensure your safety as well as the success of the project. These products are available on Amazon (note: we earn a small commission should you decide to purchase any of them):

-   Sealing and coating remover that can be used on natural stone; these products are formulated specifically to cut through sealers and remove it. Sealer removers generally cover around 75 to 200 square feet for every gallon, but it’s recommended to have more than you may need in case the removal process needs to be repeated.

• Aqua Mix Sealer and Coating Remover
• Miracle Sealants Finish Sealer Stripper

-   A mop or stripper spreading tool for spreading the sealer after pouring it out of the bottle

• O-Cedar ProMist Max Microfiber Mop
• Nadoba Silicone Sealant Finishing Tool Spreader

-   A scrub brush is necessary for agitating the remover on the surface, promoting deep penetration while avoiding it from drying. Long handles are recommended for working on natural stone floors, though handheld options can also be used for smaller areas

• Meibei Floor Scrub Brush
• Amazer Scrub Brush

-   White cleaning cloths to finish off the project without running the risk of the color dyes leaking onto the natural stone

• 12x12 Buff Pro Multi-Surface Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
• Amazon Basics Fast-Drying Terry Cotton Washcloths 

-   Chemical-resistant gloves for protecting your skin from harsh chemicals

• Lanon Nitrile Chemical Resistant Gloves
• Showa 730 Nitrile Cotton Flock-Lined Chemical Resistant Gloves

Process

Below is a general step-by-step guide for using most sealer strippers on natural stone, though always be sure to follow the product directions for the best results. This project must always be done in a well ventilated area and with the use of chemical-resistant gloves.

1. Pour the sealer remover directly on the natural stone surface.
2. Spread it using the stripper spreader tool or a mop.
3. Allow the sealer remover to stand on the natural stone surface for at 10-15 minutes or up to 1 hour depending what the manufacturer recommends. Keep an eye on it to make sure that the remover doesn’t dry completely. If it starts to dry, reapply product or sprinkle some hot water on the surface then agitate more with the scrub brush.
4. Every 2-3 minutes after, use the scrub brush to agitate the surface.
5. Rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water.
6. When the sealer has been completely removed, wipe it dry with the white cleaning cloth.

Repeat steps 1-4 if sealer residue is still left on the surface. Once the sealer has been effectively removed, allow natural stone to dry for at least 24 hours before resealing or applying other finishes.

Conclusion

It’s feasible and affordable to remove sealers from natural stone yourself. As long as you follow these guidelines, it will expose the natural stone effectively so that you can renovate or reseal as needed.