Abstract: A process for protecting, preserving, and renewing surfaces, especially rubber and other natural and synthetic polymers, leather, wood, painted surfaces and metal. An aqueous emulsion of an unsubstituted or substituted dimethylpolysiloxane fluid, or mixtures thereof, is used to thoroughly wet the surface to be protected. After a period of penetration, preferably about twenty four hours, the surface is rewetted and allowed to penetrate as in the first application. At least one additional application and penetration gives optimum protection.A unique preservative composition preferred for use in the above process is also provided. In addition to a dimethylpolysiloxane fluid aqueous emulsion as above described, the preservative also includes, based on the weight of the polysiloxane fluid, of from about 15% to about 65% by weight of one or more polyol compounds, preferably diethylene glycol and glycerin.