Granite countertops are a popular choice in homes and businesses due to their durability and attractive appearance. However, granite countertops need to be sealed in order to protect the stone and keep it looking beautiful.
Sealing granite countertops is a relatively simple process, but it’s important to know the right way to do it. In this article, you’ll learn about why granite countertops need to be sealed and how to do it correctly.
You’ll also find out about alternatives to sealing granite countertops and tips for keeping them looking their best.
What is Granite?
Granite is beautiful, durable, and adds a timeless elegance to any home! It is an igneous rock, created when molten magma cools and solidifies.
It forms deep within the earth’s crust, and is mined in large blocks from quarries. Granite can be found in many colors, ranging from white to black, and contains bits of quartz, mica, and feldspar, which contribute to its unique texture.
Granite is one of the most popular materials for countertops due to its durability and stunning appearance. It comes in a variety of types, including polished, honed, textured, and natural. Each type has its own unique properties that make it suitable for different applications.
Polished granite is a popular choice for countertops because of its smooth, glossy finish. Honed granite has a matte, satin finish, making it a great choice for floors and walls. Textured granite is rougher to the touch, and adds a unique look to any space.
Natural granite is the least processed type, leaving the beautiful colors and veins of the stone intact.
What is Sealing?
Protecting your beautiful granite from dirt and spills is essential – don’t let it go unsealed!
Sealing is a process that helps protect your granite countertop from damage, staining, and bacteria. It’s important to understand the different sealing methods and the chemical composition of granite when considering sealing your countertop.
The process of sealing involves applying a protective coating to the countertop’s surface. This coating helps prevent dirt, liquids, and other contaminants from seeping into the granite, keeping it looking beautiful for years to come.
Depending on the chemical composition of your granite, there are different sealing methods available. For example, if your granite is more porous, an impregnator sealer is best, while a topical sealer is best for granite that is less porous.
No matter what type of granite you have, regular sealing is necessary to keep it looking its best.
Why Do Granite Countertops Need to be Sealed?
By sealing your countertop, you’ll be creating a barrier that will help keep its beauty intact, preserving it for years to come – like a shield around a precious gem.
Granite countertops need to be sealed because of their durability and the benefit of avoiding staining. Sealing granite countertops helps to protect them from damage, scratches, and staining that can occur over time due to regular use. Without sealing, your countertop may become porous, making it more susceptible to bacteria and staining.
Sealing your granite countertop will also prevent moisture from seeping into the stone and causing it to become weak or damaged. It will also help to keep the countertop’s vibrant colors, making them look as good as new for years to come.
How to Tell if Your Granite Countertop is Sealed
To ensure your granite countertop is well-protected, it’s important to check if it’s been sealed – and you can find out easily!
One of the best methods for determining if your granite countertop has been sealed is to pour a small amount of water on the surface. If the water beads up and sits on the surface, it indicates that your granite countertop has been sealed.
If the water is absorbed quickly, then it may not have been sealed. Another way to check is to use a cleaning solution on the surface. If the solution beads up and is easily wiped away, then your countertop is sealed.
However, if the cleaning solution is absorbed quickly, then it may not have been sealed.
How to Seal a Granite Countertop
Sealing your granite countertop is like wrapping a present for a loved one – it’s a simple way to ensure its protection for years to come! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it yourself:
- Preparing the Countertop
Clean the surface: Start by thoroughly cleaning the countertop with a mild detergent, then wipe it down with a damp cloth.
Fill in any cracks or chips: If there are any chips or cracks in the granite, fill them in with an epoxy resin or a special granite filling product.
Let the countertop dry completely: Once the countertop is clean and any cracks or chips are filled in, let it dry completely.
- Applying the Sealant
Choose a sealant: There are a variety of DIY sealing products available, so make sure to read the instructions and choose the one that is best suited for your type of granite countertop.
Apply the sealant: Apply the sealant in small sections, using a soft brush or cloth to spread it evenly.
Let it dry: After the sealant has been applied, let it dry completely before using the countertop.
- Maintaining the Sealant
Reapply the sealant: Over time, the sealant will start to wear off, so make sure to reapply it every few years.
Clean regularly: To keep the countertop looking its best, clean it regularly with a mild detergent and a damp cloth.
Avoid acidic products: Avoid using any acidic products on the countertop, as they can damage the sealant.
Maintenance and Care Tips for Sealed Countertops
You’ve put in all that hard work to seal your countertop, so don’t let it go to waste – keep it looking great with these easy maintenance and care tips!
The most important step in maintaining a sealed countertop is preventative cleaning. This means wiping up spills and messes as soon as possible with a damp cloth or paper towel. This will help to prevent staining or any other damage that can be caused by liquids.
In addition to regular cleaning, it’s also important to regularly inspect the countertop for any signs of wear or damage. Look for scratches, chips, or any areas where the sealant may be wearing away. If any of these issues are noticed, they should be addressed right away.
Additionally, sealants can start to wear away over time, so it’s important to reapply the sealant every few years to keep the countertop looking great.
Alternatives to Sealing Granite Countertops
If you’re looking for a way to protect your countertop without sealing it, there are some great alternatives!
Polishing techniques such as regular buffing and waxing can help to protect your granite countertop from wear and tear.
Additionally, special stone cleaners are available and should be used at least once a month to clean the surface of the countertop and remove any dirt, dust, and debris.
You can also use a granite sealer enhancer, which won’t only protect the surface but will also increase the luster and shine of your countertop. This product is often used in combination with a sealer to give the countertop the maximum protection.
Finally, you can also protect your countertop with a clear topcoat such as polyurethane, which will help to prevent staining and damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sealing a granite countertop necessary?
You may be surprised to learn that nearly 80% of granite countertops are sold without being sealed. While this may sound alarming, it can be beneficial as it allows you to decide when to seal the countertop based on your own cleaning and maintenance habits.
While sealing is not necessary for every granite countertop, it is recommended to prevent staining and to make the countertop easier to clean. Taking preventative measures by sealing the countertop regularly can help keep it looking its best for years to come.
For the best cleaning tips and preventative measures, consult an expert in granite countertops.
Is sealing a granite countertop difficult?
Sealing a granite countertop is not difficult, but it’s a job that requires some skill and precision.
If you’re a DIY-er, you can buy a sealer and follow the directions to apply it to the countertop.
It’s important to make sure that the granite is clean and dry before applying the sealer.
The cost of sealing a granite countertop depends on the size of the countertop, but typically it’ll range from $4-$10 per square foot.
How often should granite countertops be sealed?
It’s wise to get into the habit of regularly sealing your granite countertops. Like a stitch in time, sealing the countertops on a regular basis will save you from the headache of water damage down the line.
Doing so will also ensure that your countertops look their best, as sealing will minimize the potential for staining and discoloration. When sealing, it’s recommended that you purchase a quality sealant, apply it in thin, even coats, and allow it to sit for at least 24 hours after application.
What is the best sealant to use on a granite countertop?
When it comes to properly sealing your granite countertop, the best sealant to use is one that is designed specifically for granite.
A durable sealant that is designed to protect your granite countertop from water, staining, and other potential damage will help keep your countertop looking beautiful for years to come.
Applying the sealant correctly is also key; make sure to read and follow all instructions on the sealant package before applying it to get the most out of it.
Are there other ways to protect granite countertops besides sealing them?
When it comes to protecting a granite countertop, sealing is an important step, but it’s not the only method for protection.
Cleaning techniques and maintenance tips can also be used to keep your countertop looking its best. Regularly wiping down the countertop with a soft cloth and mild detergent is a great way to avoid surface damage.
Additionally, using coasters, placemats, and trivets is a great way to prevent discoloration or cracking caused by contact with hot objects.
Following these simple steps will help ensure your granite countertop remains looking great for years to come.
Conclusion
It’s important to seal your granite countertop to keep it looking its best. Sealing your granite countertop will help it last for years to come. Plus, it can help reduce your cleaning time by up to 40%.
That’s an impressive statistic and well worth the effort of sealing your countertop. With the right care and maintenance, you’ll enjoy the beauty of your granite countertop for many years.
So make sure to seal your granite countertop and keep it looking its best.