Choose an Exterior Sealant
The first thing you’ll want to do is explore which products are available to fit your preferences. Decorative rock suppliers can often suggest brands to use, but you’ll also need to narrow down your choice of options by how much shine you want to see. Exterior sealants tend to come in low-sheen formulas that create a wet look that blends more naturally into the rest of the landscaping. Alternatively, you could choose a high-gloss sealer to make the landscaping rocks a major focal point.
Clean the Decorative Rocks
Similar to applying a top coat to wooden surfaces, make sure the decorative rocks are clean to avoid trapping dirt beneath the clear protective layer. With new and slightly dirty rocks, you can simply use a water hose to remove surface debris. White pebbles and older rocks with mildew or other stains might benefit more from power washing. If you see caked-on dirt on just a rock or two, you can use a gentle brush to scrub it away. Once you’ve cleaned the decorative rocks, give them time to dry completely before moving to the next steps.
Do a Test Sample
Using a sealant designed specifically for use on exterior decorative rocks can prevent unwanted surprises, such as the formula not sticking. But it’s still a good idea to do a few test samples to ensure you like the effects before you do an entire decorative rock bed. Make sure to follow all of the steps you would for the final project on the test rocks. When you’re happy with the results, you can feel confident about doing the rest of the landscaping pebbles.
Prep for Proper Sealing
Exterior rock sealant cures best on dry, clear days. Try to pick a day when rain isn’t in the forecast, and you might strive to work on your project when there’s also less humidity in the air. If you’re working outside, you might want to spray the surrounding lawn and pavement with water to reduce how much dust is flying nearby, especially if you’re sealing darker decorative rocks such as black polished pebbles. Choosing to seal the decorative rocks on a day with low wind is also a great way to prevent contaminants from landing on the surface while the sealant is drying.
Finish with the Application
Following the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the sealant leads to the best results. Generally, you should use a quality sprayer to apply the formula. Maintaining a consistent distance and speed while moving the sprayer also leads to an even application. After you’ve finished applying the sealant, give it at least 24 hours to finish drying. Then assess the results. If you see the desired wet look, you only need to do one coat. However, two coats may deepen the appearance of moisture on the decorative rocks while providing extra protection from the outdoor elements.
Decorative rocks, stones, and beach pebbles can add enormous beauty, depth, and character to any landscape. For advice on designing your landscape with decortive rocks and beach pebbles, reach out to the experts at RS&P Rocks Stones & Pebbles, a premier landscape rock and supply superstore. We specialize in drought-tolerant landscaping materials, including a variety of colored pebbles and river rock. To learn how we can help you enhance the look of your lawn, call us today.