AGER! But, what is the difference between Ager and Ager Tiger?
Ager Tiger is a slightly different formula than Ager.
Tiger is formulated specifically for use on the edges of resined exotic
stones when matching the resined top to the unresined edge. Exotic
stones are created with a very different combination of materials that
have a lot of micro fissures and natural porosity. If Tenax regular Ager
was to be used, it’s very thin viscosity will make it penetrate and
soak deep into the stone, leaving the surface of the edge basically
unchanged. The different formulation in Ager Tiger allows it to soak in
the surface just enough to give the wet look and match the color of the
surface with the edge.
Standard Ager will
have a better absorption and penetration rate on highly polished
surfaces where it would be difficult to have any sealer penetration at
all. Both Ager and Ager tiger are excellent sealers as well, so the
surface treated doesn’t have to be sealed after the color enhancement is
achieved.
Can Ager be used on flamed, brushed, or honed stone?
Yes Ager or Ager Tiger can
be applied to all these finishes. Ager Tiger may be more suited to
these porous finishes. As usual we recommend applying ager, letting it
sit on the surface for a couple of minutes and then remove all the
excess with a clean rug or cotton cloth. If any excess is left on the
surface it will eventually glaze on top and would be very difficult to
remove after curing.
Do I have to seal the stone after applying Ager or Ager Tiger?
No. Both ager and Ager Tiger are excellent color enhancing SEALERS. This is the only sealer you need!
Is Ager and Ager Tiger safe to use on a fireplace hearth?
Yes, but only after it dries.While Ager is wet, it is highly flammable.But once it dries, it is not flammable and can be used in this application.Allow 24 hours to cure fully before using the fireplace.
How do I remove Ager or Ager Tiger?
Until recently there was no safe effective way to remove Ager or Ager Tiger after it is cured. It is meant to provide a high level of protection and thus designed to stay put. However now there is Tenax Ager Remover which
is designed to remove the excess Ager left on the surface by over
application or by allowing Ager or Ager Tiger to dry on the surface.
When should I use Ager Tiger instead of Ager?
When matching an edge to the top of a resined slab or giving a “wet
look” to exotic or porous stones. The enhancement is darker and the
different formulation of the Ager Tiger allows it to hang in the open
pores better instead of wicking further into the material. This also
means fewer applications. Keep in mind that Standard ager does however
penetrate better on polished surfaces.
How long will Ager last outside on honed stone?
It’s impossible to say with the many variables that are encountered
in an outdoor application. Ager Tiger is the better choice given the
porosity of the stone and the UV exposure it will be subject to. Also it
is important to know if the material is going to be walked on or is
going to be applied on vertical surfaces. On Vertical surfaces, we have
applications that have weathered the elements for more than 5 years
without needing a second application. If the application will be applied
on an outside high traffic area, it might be necessary to reapply it
every year or as needed .
I applied Ager in excess and it dried on the surface, how do I remove it?
Ager is
a very strong stone color enhancer. It is designed not to be removed.
If a spill occurs on a stone, use acetone immediately (within 1 minute)
to not have the Ager change the color of the stone.
If Ager has been applied on the stone and excess has dried on the
surface, unfortunately it is extremely difficult to remove. Depending on
how much of Ager was left on the surface, there are a few things that
can be done to try and remove it:
1) Mechanically remove it with razor blades, scrapers, etc.
2) Abrasives such as steel wool or abrasive pads.
3) Chemicals such as Acetone or Tenax Hydrex have had some success under certain circumstances.
In these 3 instances, please use caution to not damage the surface of the stone.
The sooner the Ager is removed after application, better results may be achieved.
4) The last resort would be to remove the top of the stone with
sandpaper, diamond pads, etc. to completely remove the Ager and then
reapply. This would be done by a professional stone fabricator.
What is the solvent base in Ager and Tiger?
Ager and Ager tiger are
a special resin dissolved in a mixture of solvents. The formula is a
proprietary secret recipe that our competition would love to get their
hands on!
Yes. As always the absorption rate depends on the density and porosity of the stone. Ager is the best choice for polished surfaces as it has a special formula that allows greater penetration.
Customer does not like the look of Ager, it darkened the stone, and how do I remove it now?
It cannot be removed if it has been applied more than a few minutes.
If this is not the case, acetone in some cases can remove the sealer but
only if it is applied immediately after ager has been applied. We
reckoned to ALWAYS try the product on a hidden piece of stone to make
sure your customer like the final look and approve the “wet” effect.
When is the best time to apply ager on the edge, before or after polishing?
The best time to apply is when the pores of the stone are still open
and the finish is past the grinding stage, just after the 400 grit is a
good time to apply. This allows the ager to “wick” deeper and holds fast
the color. Just make sure the stone is completely dry before you apply
the Ager to it. Polishing can then be completed leaving the color
enhancement in tacked.