How to Seal River Rock Floors

Amy Whittle
Most river rock floors are installed with at least one coat of a sealant. However, wear and tear may make it necessary to apply additional coats. You may also want to enhance the shine of your river rock floor: a penetrating sealant will provide a good balance between protecting the material of the floor and offering a subtle shine.

Adding a sealant to your river rock floor can also make it easier to clean. If your floor feels gritty, even after it has just been mopped, it may need another coat of sealant. In general, you should plan on adding three coats of sealant every three years. Of course, high traffic areas may require more regular upkeep.

When picking a sealant, look for a penetrating formula that is appropriate to use with stone. You should also look for a sealant that is appropriate for your particular flooring. If your river rock is installed outside, for example, you should use an outdoor sealant. You may also want to use an outdoor sealant for areas that are indoors, but have extremely high moisture, like the bathroom or basement.

Step 1: Clean the floor thoroughly, first by sweeping to remove any debris and dust, and then by mopping the floor. Allow the river rock floor to dry completely before continuing.

Step 2: Apply a coat of penetrating sealant to the surface of the floor. Due to the texture of the river rocks, you cannot use a paint roller for this step. Instead, apply the penetrating sealant using a sponge dipped in the penetrating sealant. Be sure to wear gloves for this step. Allow the sealant to dry for at least 8 hours before proceeding.

Step 3: Apply another coat of penetrating sealant to the floors, using the same method you used to apply the first coat. Keep in mind that you may have to apply the sealant in several directions to adequately cover the stones. You should also not attempt to over apply the sealant, just apply enough for one thin, even coat.

Step 4: Apply a final coat of penetrating sealant after the second coat has dried thoroughly. Allow the sealant to dry for at least 24 hours before allowing foot traffic on the floor.

Published by Amy Whittle

Amy Whittle is a freelance writer based in clean, green Boulder City, Nevada. She specializes in home improvement, green living, and health and fitness issues. You can check out her work at Woman’s Day, th...  View profile

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  • sunrise9/25/2011

    can river rock be completley sealed. In our condominium we have walkways with what is called chatahouchee river pebles. It has been sealed and looks great . but in one area of the builidngs on upper floors water comes though seams. Wondering if its just natural and that its best just to devert water. or possibly use epoxy sealer on the joints. in past joints were sealed from bottom for years . And we think water just sat in the concrete ceiling until it evaporated .

  • Luke M.11/7/2010

    Brilliant! Awesome! No surprise from you, Amy!

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