Sealing Liquid Metal Surfaces
We don’t supply liquid metal kits with hard sealer as standard, because we generally only recommended them for feature walls.
It is possible to use hard sealer on liquid metals, but there are some limitations that you should be aware of.
This guide tells you everything you need to know about sealing liquid metal surfaces.
Limitations of Liquid Metals
Liquid Metals are generally only recommended for feature walls.
They are a little limited when it comes to floors, worktops & bathrooms. Unlike Microne Plus, that we usually recommend for worktops & Microne that we recommend for bathrooms, the liquid metals are dependent on the sealer to make them waterproof. If any water gets behind the sealer, it could leave a stain in the surface.
Can I Try Using a Hard Sealer?
It is possible to use a hard sealer, like Aquamax, Maxipur or Polyshield, over the surface of the liquid metal & this will give it more protection from moisture, but it’s important to be aware that there are a few limitations before doing so:
- Sealer Changes the Appearance
Applying a coat of sealer does change the appearance of liquid metal surfaces.
Oxidised metal surfaces become darker, with less contrast, whilst most sealers dull the finish of polished metals.
- Reliant on Sealer for Waterproofing
You will be reliant on the sealer to make the surface waterproof.
This system works well, but only if there is sufficient sealer across the entire area. Even a single pinhole, caused by an air bubble, in the surface, or the sealer, can allow water to penetrate through to the liquid metal & cause a water mark.
Which Sealer Can I Apply Over Polished Metals?
The best sealer to use over Polished Metals is Polyshield, because it’s a very glossy finish, it maintains a high sheen over the polished surface.
Polyshield, is intended for use by professional microcement installers only, see product installation guide for more information on Applying Polyshield.
What Sealer Can I Apply Over Oxidised Metals?
Once you have neutralised the surface & ensured it is completely dry, you can use Sealer Oxhider over the surface. This will seal the product enough to stop the surface transferring onto clothes & other items that come into contact with it, but it won’t provide waterproofing sufficient for bathrooms or hardness suitable for floors.
You can seal the surface with Aquamax Pro or Maxipur, but please be aware that you will be reliant on the sealer for waterproofing, so it needs to be done thoroughly & carefully to prevent any moisture getting to the liquid metal.
Installation guides for each of the sealers are listed below:
Applying AquaMax Pro for Floors
Applying AquaMax Pro for Walls
This guide will help you to Choose the Right Sealer.