Many homes have granite countertops. Strong, shiny and lovely in the kitchen and bathroom. Although granite has a sturdy composition, it still needs proper maintenance. There are many granite protection methods, which include sealing granite countertops.
The primary objective of sealing stone products is to defend their surfaces against spills, staining effects and water penetrations. Your countertop keeps its shiny appearance while increasing its lifetime when sealed.
The following guide explains the home-based process of sealing granite countertops. This article addresses what exactly needs resealing and provides guidelines about frequency as well as applicability to other granite surfaces.
Why Sealing Granite Is Important
It may seem to be solid granite, but it is porous. This means that it has very small holes. Such holes allow liquids such as water, oil, or juice to get inside. This can also stain, become dull or even damaged over time. When you seal granite, the seal actually fills up those small holes. By doing this, you can form a protective layer on the surface. It resists the soaking of liquids and dirt. However, your granite may begin to look old, dirty or worn out if you don’t seal it properly. You might need to seal it regularly to look fresh and clean for years.Signs Your Granite Surface May Need Sealing
Not sure if your granite needs sealing? Try this easy test:- Pour (or take a little bit of water) (about a spoonful).
- Pour it on the countertop.
- Wait for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Wipe the water away.
How Often Should You Seal Granite Countertops?
However, this depends on the type of granite, how often it is used and where it is installed.- You should seal it every 12 to 18 months
- Reseal it every 6–12 months if you cook a lot.
- Granite with a light color may require to be sealed more often because it absorbs stains faster.
- Dark granite usually needs less sealing.
Can You Seal Granite Countertops at Home?
It is possible to seal granite at home. It This is very simple and does not cost you so much time. Actually, you do not need any special tools or training. All you need are the right sealer and some basic items. Below are the instructions on how to seal your granite step by step.
What You’ll Need
- Granite sealer (Stone sealer only)
- A clean cloth or towel.
- A granite cleaner or mild soap.
- Gloves (optional but helpful)
- A soft sponge (optional)
How to Seal Granite Countertops: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Clean the Surface
Use a granite-safe cleaner or warm water with a little dish soap. Clean all dust, food, oil or stains off. After it dries, fully coat the surface with the sealer. A sealer performs more effectively on a surface that is clean.Step 2: Apply the Sealer
Shake the sealer bottle. Spray or pour it directly onto the granite. This can be spread around with a soft cloth. Cover the complete surface, including the edges and corners. Don’t miss any spots. You want an even layer.Step 3: Let It Soak
The sealer should sit for about 15 to 20 minutes. This means it can penetrate the stone. Don’t let it dry fully on top. Granite that is highly porous absorbs the sealer very fast. You can apply a second coat if needed.Step 4: Wipe Off Extra Sealer
Wipe off any excess sealer from the surface with a dry cloth. Otherwise, you will have problems. Buff the surface in small circles until it looks clear and dry.Step 5: Let It Cure
Leaving the countertop aside for at least 24 hours. The extra time allows the sealer to cure and act as an extremely strong barrier. Avoid placing items or spills on the granite during this time.How to Reseal Granite Countertops
On other occasions, people ask how to reseal granite countertops. The answer is simple: just follow the same steps as sealing for the first time. The only difference is that your surface may already be partly sealed. So the granite might absorb less sealer. You still need to clean it well and apply the sealer evenly. If you’re asking yourself, If how do I reseal granite countertops, and what steps do I follow, then just remember clean, apply, soak, wipe and dry.
How Can I Seal Granite for the First Time
Sealing your granite is essential if it’s new. The installer might not seal the new granite. Either ask your builder or do a water test. To seal granite countertops for the first time, follow the steps in the same sequence. Make sure that you apply the sealer when the surface is fully dry and clean. First-time sealing protects your stone early and keeps it safe from the start.Can I Seal Granite with Natural Products?
The question about finding natural methods to treat granite countertops has become common among household owners. Plant-based stone sealers combined with eco-friendly components are available on the market. You can find a solid environmental and home safety option among these types of sealers. Natural sealers provide a shorter lifespan than chemical sealants do. The sealing process needs to be repeated at a more frequent rate. Run the test on a small area before applying it over the entire surface. The product should only be used on granite surfaces.How to Seal Other Granite Surfaces
You don’t use granite only as countertops for your kitchen. You may find granite even on your bathroom, on tables, floors or outdoors. Here’s how to seal other granite surfaces:- Vanity tops in the bathroom: Clean soap and water sticky tops in the vanity, first.
- Granite seams and joints: Sealer should be applied lightly into each gap.
- Granite floors or tiles: Mop the surface and let it dry before sealing granite floors or tiles.
- Outdoor granite: Make sure to purchase a weather-proof sealer for outdoor granite.
- Granite table tops and worktops: Use the same steps as countertops.
