Adding a manufactured stone veneer to your home can go a long way toward improving its curb appeal and possibly its overall value as well. If you are trying to sell your house, a custom stone veneer can give it an upscale look that will set it apart from your neighbors. In order to keep costs down some homeowners have decided to tackle the project on their own instead of hiring an expert for the installation. The process is not too difficult and even inexperienced people can install it if they pay close attention to detail. However do it yourselfers often make the mistake of forgetting to seal their work.

Adding a sealant to your manufactured stone veneer is not expensive and can be done very easily if you follow these four steps:

1. Do not try to add a sealant to your veneer for at least a month. If you seal the veneer too soon you will trap in the moisture and defeat the purpose of sealing it in the first place. Most stone veneers need 30 days to cure properly.
2. Purchase sealant that is penetrating but can still breathe. If you are unsure about which to purchase, just ask the salesperson at your local hardware store and they should have no problem directing you to the right product. Use a paint brush to apply a thin coating of the sealant over the entire surface of the veneer.
3. Read the sealant’s directions for how long it needs to dry and follow it exactly. You can really mess up the finish of your veneer if you try messing with your sealant before it has had time to dry all the way.
4. After the first coat is completely dry, you need to apply a second coat the same way. Some sealants need another coat after that but unless the directions specifically call for it, never apply more than two coats.