Sealing tumbled stone

[rcauble]

I am being told to seal the tumbled stone before I install. Set in a bucket of water and let sit over night. Is there a correct or incorrect way to seal the stone before I install as a backspalsh. New at installing tumbled stone.
Thanks
Ricky

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[doitright]

Hi Ricky, Welcome! :)

I don't understand why you're soaking the stone in a bucket of water? : :confused:

Depending what stone you have will determine whether or not presealing is necessary. Your grouting technique will also make a difference.

What do you want the stone to look like when the job is complete (natural, darker [enhanced])?

Can you post a picture of the stone?

[rcauble]

I would like the stone to look natural. I am going to fill in the pits with grout,but I am being told that when I start to grout if I have not sealed the stone it will absorb the moisture out of the grout and will not look right. Is there any truth to that?
Thanks
Ricky

[Rd Tile]

You can seal it before you set it or after, I usually just spray them with 2 coats of Aquamix, then set them, grout it and seal it all again a week later.:)

I've layed them all out on a sheet of drywall to seal them, and have sprayed them while on the wall as well, think they get a better coat on the drywall first, spray them, wait 5 minutes and wipe off any excess, follow the directions on the sealer label.:)

[Rd Tile]

Oh well.

[doitright]

Hi Ricky :)

I will always dampen the surface of the stone prior to grouting. Some tumbled marble is more porous than others, and at times a less expensive water based sealer works wonders to assist in grouting. I will always seal the stone and grout after the grout cures (and preseal when necessary).

I have seen stained back splashes in kitchens, and it's not a bad idea to give them the best level of protection available.

You didn't specify where this tumbled stone is being installed.