Stone Endurance: A Comparative Analysis of Natural and Artificial Weathering on Stone Longevity

The long-term endurance of building stones must be assured since their longevity has repercussions for economic and social value. Frequently, slabs flooring cladding are installed with polished finishing in outdoor environments technical ornamental purposes cultural heritage sites modern civil architecture. Compared to any other finishing, glossy surfaces rather vulnerable wear, particularly when they interact slightly acidic rainwater. Several hydrophobic treatments applied prevent this damage by preventing contact between rain stone; such efficient but sometimes non-durable. Stakeholders conservation scientists need better methods anticipate the future behaviour material solutions. Complying demand, a comparison is made natural ageing artificial weathering, reproduced UVA radiation, moisture spray accelerated weathering. Artificial weathering predict over time real environment. Data obtained through measurement gloss colour parameters, detection micro-textures SEM, calculation micro-roughness using digital rugosimeter demonstrate that weakly rainwater main cause superficial decay stone just six months exposure. This period corresponds 7–14 days Furthermore, loss efficiency durability coatings detected measuring static angle. highlights even if protective treatment was proficient, it could easily deteriorate normal conditions on polished, low-porosity stone. Additionally, water vapour permeability indicates variations regular transmission due ageing. first solution threats prevention pathologies, including aesthetic ones. A careful choice most suitable lithotype finish an environmental study represent existing problem. It highlighted requirements should not prioritised detriment architectural quality, performance, durability, safety.