One of the most attractive features of architectural cast stone and GFRC is the natural way in which it ages and weathers over time - slowly but surely, evolving and developing its own unique character.
Due to its porous nature, precast concrete absorbs and releases moisture at varying rates, which in time, results in a beautifully marbled appearance. Although this effect is subtle, it truly gives our cast stone and GFRC products a "natural" look and feel, and often causes them to be mistaken for natural stone.
Although all of our precast products are handmade at our facility in a controlled, refined process, no two pieces will age in exactly the same manner - further contributing to an appearance that looks more like natural stone than it does a concrete sidewalk.
But not everyone wants the products they get from us to change subtely over time. Some clients want their cast stone material to look "like new" forever, and that's great! By adhering to an annual (or biennial) cleaning and sealing schedule, you can keep your cast stone looking as fresh as the day it was installed - or close to it!
Ravacast recommends a natural looking, water-based, penetrating sealer like Sealer's Choice Gold by Aqua Mix or BulletProof by DuPont Stonetech. Needless to say, there are countless sealers available and you should find the one that's right for you. When applying a sealer to your cast stone products, make sure you follow the manufacturer's recommendations.