After installing the covering, the work is not finished. The long-term appearance and condition of natural stone, ceramic, and other covering materials depend on maintenance. Untreated stone surfaces absorb liquids, frost-prone terraces deteriorate without impregnation, and polished marble loses its shine from kitchen chemicals. Preventive protection is cheaper than intervention after damage.
Natural stone has a porous structure: it absorbs liquids, grease, red wine, and tea. Once the liquid penetrates, the stain reaches the stone’s internal structure — and surface cleaning does not remove it. Impregnation seals the stone’s pore network: liquids bead off the surface and do not absorb. Frost-prone outdoor coverings absorb water in winter without impregnation, which expands when frozen and causes the stone to crack — especially in limestone and sandstone.
Impregnators (water repellents) penetrate the stone and make the pore network water-repellent without forming a visible layer on the surface. The natural appearance remains, but water and stain resistance improve significantly. Surface protective coatings form a film layer on the stone or covering surface, protecting against mechanical wear, chemicals, and staining. Maintenance emulsions are for regular upkeep, renewing the impregnating layer and keeping the surface clean simultaneously.
Natural stones (marble, granite, limestone, travertine, slate) each have different porosity and acid sensitivity — the maintenance product must suit the chemical composition of the specific stone. Ceramic and porcelain generally have low porosity, but protecting grout and edges may be justified. For outdoor terraces and sidewalks, frost resistance and UV stability are the key considerations.
Browse our maintenance and protective products, or request advice to assemble a care system tailored to your covering type and the demands of the space.
The Kerakoll Color Collection is an integrated project that includes innovative materials - resin, cement, handcrafted wood, microcoatings, paints, and glazes - coordinated on a single color palette.
