Can you impregnate, then seal???

[tilenstyle]

I just finished my first tiling design and install for a kitchen backsplash. Since I used a tumbled marble I followed the advice on these wonderfully informative boards and used Miracle 511 impregnator before grouting. Now that I have finished grouting, what would protect the tiles more from stovetop spills-- another coat of impregnator or a sealer??

If the answer is a sealer, which would you recommend to give a soft sheen and NOT a glossy finish?

Thank-you so much for your wisdom!

Maureen
(P.S., John, you have very recently been advising my very talented daughter-in-law, AnnMarie, aka, "iliketotile"!!)

I hope you can see my attached pic!

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[JTG]

Maureen
It looks very nice. Good job.
Wait 72 hours after grouting and use the 511.
JTG

[tilenstyle]

Thank-you, for your response, Jerry.

I'm just wondering if the tumbled marble (and grout) would be easier to wipe down if they had a regular sealer as the top coat.

And, by the way, is it just ONE finishing coat of sealer (or impregnator)?

Has anybody used the two products on one tile job (as i asked about in my first thread?)

Thanks, all!

Maureen

(Attached pic is a closer view)

[doitright]

Hi Maureen :)

Sealers and impregnators are one in the same. The only thing that would sit on top is a topical finish, or over application of a impregnator. I have seen some products develop a sheen when this occurs.

Some people will first use a water based product for the initial sealing, then "topcoat" with a solvent based product for ultimate protection. Some enhancers have a high solids content that can also tend to develop a sheen if enough is applied. I suggest using caution if attempting this as the surface can also get tacky or smudgy.

One option would be to use a product such as Prosoco's Gloss n Guard (topical) and apply only one coat. If the surface is absorbent enough, only a soft sheen will develop. Another product is Sparks Stone Glamor. It will give almost the same results. It has a little more enhancing affect as well.

Regardless of what products and method you choose, I strongly suggest to TEST first to achieve desired results.

[tilenstyle]

Thank-you, John, for all your sage advice! I will definitely test the two products you mention (if I can find them!).

Just saw your post to AnnMarie- iliketotile- (my lovely young daughter-in-law). And yes, she did a fine job on her slate floor in the den. She and my son are extremely handy. Aside from the design, little mosaic squares, and grouting, they did most of MY BACKSPLASH which is the topic of my questions!!

Thanks, again, for your time, patience and enthusiasm for your craft - and all the other moderators, too!

Maureen

[doitright]

Hi Maureen :)

Glad to be of service! Thank you for your kind words! They really enhance why we do this. Even more is seeing the results of your skill being put into action! :nod: