Please Note:

• Aldon is not the manufacturer of your patio furniture. We are Aldon Chemical Corporation and we make the sealer used on tabletops & fire pits manufactured by many patio furniture makers.


• Aldon is the sealer manufacturer. Products are not made for us by other manufacturers (this is called "private labeling") and therefore, we provide quality control and long term continuity and availability over this vital component of your patio furniture. The sealer is in convenient aerosol cans and is always immediately available by ordering here for pick up or delivery at any of our many USA and Canada locations.


• This history is accurate to the best of our information and belief, but verify for your tabletop. Many Agio patio tables and fire pits manufactured from 2003 to the summer of 2011 at their factory in China were sealed with Aldon S-B-S Sealer. That was because most of the tabletops were made with "natural" stone (marble, limestone, slate, etc.) These tabletops were thus protected from stains and etching by acidic liquids.


• In 2011 the designs changed to utilize "manmade" products (glazed ceramic tile, porcelain tile). Some of these man made products look very much like the natural products. Most of those surfaces do not need the protection provided by Aldon S-B-S Sealer because they are already stain and acid resistant. Therefore, the factory either did not seal them or applied a type of polish/dressing that would be mostly for appearance enhancement and not protection. These type dressings are applied every few months to maintain the ability to "bead water". However, beading water does not stop acidic liquids, phenol based liquids and other oil based liquids. See below to easily remove and replace these dressing type coatings with the heavy duty protection of Aldon S-B-S Sealer (no shipping or handling charges within the USA 48 states).


• This page is in support of the tabletops and fire pits sealed with Aldon S-B-S Sealer, but we also help with the removal and refinishing needed no matter what sealer was used . Because you do not want to use one formula of sealer over another formula of sealer (potential incompatibility issues), this creates a situation that you need to evaluate before refinishing. But, we will assist you and there should be no problem for you because that is what we do every day with much more difficult floor and wall projects globally.


• Our goal is not to try to sell you our sealer. Our goal is to get you the right sealer remover and sealer for your situation, even if for some unknown reason that might not be Aldon products or you are just fine to stay with what you have now from the factory. This policy sends us many, many new customers just by word of mouth.
  
  
  • Here is what we can tell you to look for. If a sealer label says it is "flammable", it is not an Aldon sealer. Be extremely careful if applying a non-Aldon sealer on fire pits. A lit pilot light could be disastrous.
  • S-B-S Sealer for tabletops & fire pits is designed to be easily renewable by simply melting and wiping away with lacquer thinner and not leave a gummy residue, particles, or other remaining materials to interfere with re- spraying S-B-S Sealer from our aerosol cans. See this easy process below.


• If lacquer thinner does not create a clean surface, you must have a different sealer. See the Disaster Recovery section below. For unknown sealers, test Aldon "Premium Stripper" (you can order samples) as it will remove any of the tough floor sealers we encounter. Most non-Aldon sealers formulated for tabletops do not need to be as tough as the sealers from Aldon that are also used on flooring. Therefore, they should be easy to remove if you use the correct stripper.

The balance of this page refers only to tabletops sealed with Aldon S-B-S Sealer.

• There is no need to be overly concerned about damaging S-B-S Sealer.  Unlike other sealers, that is easily fixed.  The important thing is protecting the stone and that is what the sealer does well.
• Use only Aldon S-B-S Sealer to repair the finish. The concept is "Do not risk incompatibility". We know what additional S-B-S Sealer does with the original S-B-S Sealer, but have no idea what a different sealer might do. A new application of S-B-S Sealer will "melt" the old S-B-S Sealer and they will flow together and tightly bond.
• You can order Aldon S-B-S Sealer in convenient aerosol spray cans that are specifically designed for tabletops, back splashes, counter tops, and other small projects. To order, click Ordering or order here:

  Aerosols 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

       Case 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

  (case=12 aerosol cans)

  To see a full video of the easy sealer stripping / spraying process, click >>

  IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR STONE TABLETOP

Congratulations on the purchase of your outdoor furniture set featuring a beautifully handcrafted tile or stone tabletop!

The stone in your table is an all-natural material. Any variations in texture, color and stone finish are inherent characteristics of a natural material and are part of the uniqueness that is the natural beauty of stone. These colors can be "enhanced" (richer, deeper colors) by the sealer.

About Natural Stone

Any natural stone will have some degree of absorption and therefore can absorb something that will stain it. Your stone tabletop has been sealed and protected with Aldon S-B-S Sealer. Therefore, from now on we are actually going to be discussing the maintenance of the sealer, not the stone. This is an important distinction because the maintenance of the sealer automatically protects the stone.

The goals for a patio furniture tabletop or fire pit sealer must meet the conditions of real world usage, not just good looks in a showroom. These goals include:

• Provide an extremely high level of protection from all stains and acidic liquids. Marble and limestone will etch from acidic liquids and ruin the finish if not protected. However, we show you how to salvage this unfortunate situation.
• Does not require frequent re-application by the homeowner.
• Is easily repaired if a disaster occurs.
• Does not require specialized knowledge or skill from the homeowner.
• Is safe for the homeowner. Most sealers are flammable, Aldon S-B-S Sealer in non-flammable.
• Is safe for the atmosphere. Aldon S-B-S Sealer meets all VOC requirements.
• Will not break down with outdoor use. S-B-S Sealer is also used on patio flooring and driveways.
• Create a customizable gloss level from matte to high gloss with additional coatings.
• Enhance and bring to life the natural colors of stones.
• Have a performance history of many years. S-B-S Sealer has been in use since 1984.

Here are a few features that will make a difference to your long term care requirements:

• Aldon S-B-S Sealer has been used since 1984 - indoor and outdoors, desert heat and mountain cold. It does not have the "indoor only" limitation of many sealers.
• Aldon S-B-S Sealer does not breakdown from ultra violet light or anything else that would require additional sealing in a few months or every year..
• Aldon S-B-S Sealer was created for, and has been used, on flooring - an obviously more abusive condition than that experienced by a tabletop.
• Aldon S-B-S Sealer protects stones (limestones and marbles) that react with acidic liquids to create a dulling of the finish (surface etching). That includes all the things that can be dropped on a table, like wines, liquors, fruit juices, lemon/lime slices, etc.
• Obviously, it is best to cover your table when not in use.  However, the sealer is very easy to repair and, therefore, any damage to the sealer is not a crises.

Therefore, your need to care for this tabletop is only simple cleaning. No spill can get at your tile or stone so long as the sealer is maintained. Note: "Disaster recovery" is discussed below and is unbelievably simple and easy.

Note: The nature of any stone mass is to retain heat. Care should be exercised when handling stone that has been subjected to lengthy exposure to the sun.

Note: This page is devoted to the tabletops and fire pits. For information about your patio flooring ( or home interior flooring ) - please click  Surface Types.

  

To see a video of sealer application to a fire pit, click the picture.

 

Care and Maintenance: ............ Keeping it Simple!

With S-B-S Sealer, there are no special care or cleaning materials required or to be avoided, other than petroleum solvents (which can break down and weaken the protective qualities of the sealer). Soap and water is all you need. If by mistake a solvent was used, and it has affected the sealer, do not worry. After it is dry, simply add back more of the sealer to restore the finish. See "Disaster Recovery" below.

Cleaning, normal dirt:

The stone on your table has been sealed, but it still requires regular cleaning. Clean the tabletop with a soft, clean, white cloth (one that won't bleed color) or sponge. Use clean warm water and a mild dish soap. Never use scouring creams or abrasive cleansers that might scratch the sealer finish.

Cleaning, accidental spills:

These should be cleaned immediately. Just wipe up with a damp cloth. S-B-S Sealer will minimize possible damage to the tabletop stone by allowing more cleaning time for accidental spills. Keeping the protective sealer maintained is very important!

Rinse after cleaning with plenty of clean water to remove any soap residue. Dry thoroughly after cleaning to prevent residue from minerals that might be present in your water, even with softened water.

Cleaning, heavy duty: (bird droppings, sap or tree droppings, label glue)

To remove these tougher materials you may need a more aggressive cleaner than soap and water. That would be Aldon Insta-Clean . This product breaks down tough oil and other type materials, but will not hurt the S-B-S Sealer. Spray on - let it work - wipe off before dry. With flooring, no rinsing is needed. However, as with any chemical product, a tabletop should be final cleaned with soap and water in case food that will be consumed might be set on the tabletop instead of a plate.

What if you see the finish dulling over time?

This would not be dulling of the sealer, but could be deposits on top of the sealer. For instance, sprinkler water containing minerals, chemicals carried from rain water running off the roof or other cover, cleaning product residues, etc. See Problem Solving for mineral deposits and other cleaning issues.

If necessary, you can remove the sealer and deposits on top of the sealer will come off also. Use lacquer thinner and see "Disaster Recovery" below for re-sealing with S-B-S Sealer. Do not leave the tabletop unprotected with sealer for longer than absolutely necessary to prevent accidental staining of the stone.

What if you want to make it more glossy?

Just do a normal cleaning, then when dry - spray more S-B-S Sealer with the spray can. The new sealer liquid will melt the old, then bond with the old and build up more gloss. See page bottom for ordering spray cans.

Maintenance of the S-B-S Sealer:

There really is not any special maintenance needed under normal conditions. (For "disaster recovery" - see below.) Sealer touch up should not be necessary, but is very easy if ever needed. After cleaning and drying, you can spray any area, or the whole tabletop, with the S-B-S Sealer. The new sealer "melts" the old sealer and all bonds together to a new finish.

Additional Recommendations - Making the beauty last!

There is no great concern about using coasters and place mats when dining. However, coasters will help absorb sweating by beverage glasses or cups and also prevent hot mugs or cups from leaving a ring. Place mats will catch spills and prevent rough bottom dishes from scratching the sealer if dragged across the surface.

Any large piece of stone can "draw" the heat from a hot serving dish that is placed on it. This rapid transfer of heat can cool the food and could crack the dish. Use caution when placing very hot objects on the tabletop and always use trivets, mats or hot pads.

If a fabric cover has left a gummy residue behind, see: this page

Special Precautions For Tables Using Umbrellas When using an umbrella with a table, always make sure the protective ring is in the umbrella hole and the umbrella is secured using a sturdy umbrella base. Never use an umbrella without the protective ring or an umbrella base.

Always remove an umbrella from the table and store when not in use.

Never use an umbrella in a table during windy conditions.

Disaster Recovery: To see a full video of the sealer stripping / spraying process, click >>

(You may need Aldon Premium Stripper to remove certain types of non-Aldon sealers.)

The knife slipped and you cut into the sealer?

Simply apply enough S-B-S Sealer on the cut area to cover it. The new sealer will "melt" the old and all will self-level to a new finish.

A red hot utensil was set on the tabletop and the sealer has a "scorched" or "melted" area?

• Use lacquer thinner or Aldon Premium Stripper to remove the damaged area. "Premium Stripper" is a semi-gel product that you can control and keep from touching a larger area than desired.
  If using lacquer thinner, pour a small puddle - wipe off before it dries with a clean white cloth. Repeat as necessary.
• Let dry.
• Apply S-B-S Sealer to the area and allow a little to flow into the surrounding undamaged sealer area. The new sealer will "melt" the old and all will self-level to a new finish.

Something has cut or scraped past the sealer and managed to scratch the stone? (or grout?) (This is also a way to "polish away" stone stains that may have occurred during the time the stone was not protected by sealer.)

• Use lacquer thinner or Aldon Premium Stripper to remove sealer from the damaged area. "Premium Stripper" is a semi-gel product that you can control and keep from touching a larger area than desired.
  If using lacquer thinner, pour a small puddle - wipe off before it dries with a clean white cloth. Repeat as necessary.
• Let dry.
• See Aldon "Fine Stone Restoration" for the process of polishing out the scratches in limestone and marble. See below for the grout.
• Let dry.
• Apply Aldon S-B-S Sealer to the area and allow a little to flow into the surrounding undamaged sealer area. The new sealer will "melt" the old and all will self-level to a new finish.

Scratches in the grout.

• The steel wool part of the process of stone restoration will also refinish the grout because tabletop grouts are usually a resin and not cement. If you only have scratches in the grout and not in the stone, you do not need the "Fine Stone Restoration". Just polish out the scratches with #0000 steel wool and then add back the Aldon S-B-S Sealer.
Some extremely aggressive chemical has attacked the sealer and left a permanent mark? This is extremely unlikely to actually happen in anything considered normal use. The true goal is to protect the stone surface, even if a little sealer is sacrificed. Simply use lacquer thinner to remove the damaged area of sealer, then repair with more sealer.

Repairing pits or holes?

These tabletops are made of natural stone. It almost never happens, but is possible that the expansion/contraction from many repetitions of heating and cooling that impacts any outdoor surface could cause a "pop out" of a tiny piece of stone from an invisible, internal weak spot. If it happens, it is relatively easy to repair. You can review the patching/filling process here.

Small white spots under the sealer?

These tabletops are a large mass of stone and metal that will absorb a good deal of heat during a sunny day. When a mass like this heats up, it expands. When it cools down at night, it contracts. Natural stone will vary considerable in density across its face. Sometimes, the expansion/contraction movement day after day can cause the sealer to lose bond at some points of denser stone. This might show up as a white spot (bubble or "blister"). If large enough, it can sometimes be scraped off with your fingernail. This is a quick and easy fix, but should be preventable by keeping the table top covered when not in use. Here are some repair options:
• Easiest - simply spray with sealer. New sealer will melt old and create a new finish. Usually, this is all that is needed. If the condition happens again, you can spray again or do this following more thorough surface preparation.
• More thorough surface preparation: Remove old sealer with lacquer thinner. Then aggressively polish the entire stone top surface with #0000 steel wool. This is a very fine steel wool used for polishing smooth surfaces. When done, clean dust off with soap and water, rinse with plain water and thoroughly dry. Then spray with sealer.

Note: Use only S-B-S Sealer to repair the finish. The concept is "Do not risk incompatibility". We know what additional S-B-S Sealer does with the original S-B-S Sealer, but have no idea what a different sealer might do. A new application of S-B-S Sealer will "melt" the old S-B-S Sealer and they will flow together and tightly bond.

Canadian customers: SBS in gallons and in aerosols is available from our Canada distributor. There is a contact link for them on our shopping cart.

To see a full video of the sealer stripping / spraying process, click >>

 

You can order Aldon S-B-S Sealer in convenient aerosol spray cans that are specifically designed for tabletops, back splashes, counter tops, and other small projects. To order this, and any other Aldon products - click Ordering

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