Water-Based Penetrating Sealer Comparison Test Results

Water-Based Penetrating Sealer Comparison Test Results

Choosing the right penetrating sealer can have a significant impact on the long-term appearance and stain resistance of grout, natural stone, tile, and masonry surfaces. This comparison summarizes water-based penetrating sealer testing performed by Modern Stone Technologies using grout samples and common household staining agents. The results provide insight into how several popular sealers performed when exposed to real-world conditions including oil, wine, coffee, sauces, and other common household contaminants.

The testing was conducted using procedures based on standards published by the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA/NATCO). Four commercially available water-based penetrating sealers were evaluated:

• Modern Stone Clear Guard Water
• StoneTech BulletProof
• Aqua Mix Sealers Choice Gold
• Miracle 511

Test Preparation

Four grout samples measuring approximately 3 inches in diameter by 1 inch thick were prepared using Custom Polyblend Snow White grout. Each sample was submerged in its designated penetrating sealer for 10 minutes and then removed to dry. The samples were subsequently allowed to cure at room temperature for a period of seven days.

Durability Testing Procedure

After the curing period, the samples underwent a durability test intended to simulate conditions commonly experienced in residential environments.

• 5 minutes submerged in a pH-neutral cleaning solution
• 2 minutes submerged in boiling water
• The cycle was repeated five times
• Samples were then allowed to dry for 24 hours

Following the drying period, each sealed grout sample was exposed to a series of common household liquids for one hour to evaluate stain resistance performance.

Household Liquids Tested

• Soda
• Hot Sauce
• Ketchup
• Wine
• Cooking Oil
• Worcestershire Sauce
• Soy Sauce
• Coffee

10 Minute Observations

At the 10-minute observation point, Modern Stone Clear Guard Water and StoneTech BulletProof demonstrated the strongest beading characteristics and highest resistance to penetration. Aqua Mix Sealers Choice Gold exhibited slight penetration, while Miracle 511 showed noticeable oil absorption and the lowest overall resistance among the products tested.

30 Minute Observations

At the 30-minute mark, Modern Stone Clear Guard Water continued to demonstrate the highest resistance. StoneTech BulletProof exhibited minor penetration, while Aqua Mix Sealers Choice Gold showed increasing penetration from oil, wine, and coffee. Miracle 511 displayed significant penetration from multiple test liquids.

Final One-Hour Results

After one hour of exposure, the stain resistance performance of each sealer was scored based on the level of penetration observed. Lower scores indicate better stain resistance.

Scoring Scale

• 1 = No Penetration
• 2 = Slight Penetration
• 3 = Significant Penetration
• 4 = Full Penetration

Note: Lower total scores indicate greater stain resistance.

Based on the results of this testing procedure, Modern Stone Clear Guard Water achieved the lowest overall score among the products evaluated. According to the test results, this represented the highest level of stain resistance within the scope of the comparison.

Modern Stone attributes the performance of its penetrating sealers to micro-emulsion technology designed to improve penetration into grout and natural stone while providing long-term protection against common household stains. As with any sealer, actual field performance may vary depending on substrate type, installation conditions, maintenance practices, and exposure levels.

Related Collections:

• Modern Stone Sealers
• Sealers and Concrete Stain