First, the cause of freezing and thawing The freezing and thawing phenomenon is commonly seen in colder regions, especially in northern areas. When the pores in a stone absorb sufficient water, and the temperature drops below 0°C, the water inside the stone begins to freeze. As water turns into ice, its volume increases, which can create significant pressure within the stone. If this expansion force exceeds the structural strength of the stone, it can lead to cracking or even complete fragmentation. This process is known as freezing and thawing. Most materials expand when heated and contract when cooled, but water behaves differently. Water reaches its maximum density at 4°C. As it cools further to 0°C, the molecules arrange themselves in a hexagonal structure, forming ice. This unique arrangement creates more space between the molecules, reducing the density and increasing the volume. In fact, when 1 cubic meter of water freezes, it expands to about 1.11 cubic meters. So, when water gets trapped in the pores or cracks of a stone, it expands upon freezing, causing those spaces to grow larger. This repeated cycle of water absorption and freezing leads to progressive damage, eventually breaking the stone apart over time. Second, the prevention of freezing and thawing As the primary cause of freezing and thawing is water infiltration, the best way to prevent this damage is to stop water from entering the stone in the first place. One effective solution is to apply a high-quality stone sealer or curing agent. These products create a protective barrier on the surface of the stone, reducing its ability to absorb moisture. By minimizing water penetration, you significantly reduce the risk of freeze-thaw damage, especially in colder climates where this issue is most common. Regular maintenance and proper sealing can greatly extend the lifespan and durability of natural stone surfaces. Suzhou FUJI Precision Elevator Co.,Ltd , https://www.profuji.com