Answer
Sep 25, 2019 - 04:10 AM
Hello Dori,Real Quarry tile does not need to be sealed due to its vitreous nature which boast an absorption rate of 0.5 percent to 3 percent. This low absorption rate would make it difficult for any of our sealers to penetrate this nearly impervious tile.If your tile is experiencing more porosity, for whatever reason, I would get a sample of AFM SafeCoat, MexeSeal and test for penetration in an inconspicuous area.For wooden countertops you can go with two major options: an oil-based or water-based sealer.Oil-based are easier to touch up over time but do not form a sacrificial layer between the countertop and the elements. Oil-based also have the advantage of being food grade, if you were needing to cut directly onto the counter, as is such with a butcher block.Food grade oil-based sealers include: -AFM SafeCoat, Naturals Clear Penetrating Oil-Bioshield, Herbal Oil-Bioshield, Wood Counter Finish Water-based sealers are not considered food grade but they are still a non-toxic option. They are fine to come in contact with food after curing and as long as you aren't directly cutting into them.Water-based sealers also create a sacrificial topical seal, which protects the surface of the material but is more of an undertaking should you ever want to refinish your counters.The only water-based finish I would recommend for countertop application is AFM SafeCoat, Polyureseal BP. All these sealers will have a mild odor when applied but will dissipate once fully cured. Curing times can vary by temperature and humidity.Most oil-based sealers have a linseed base which can smell stronger than water-based upon application.If you have any sensitivities, please get a 3-4 oz sample to test, which we offer for $9.95.
