The sealing of granite is one that has attracted considerable attention recently. Well, it is okay to wonder if you need to seal your granite.
After all, sealing provides additional durability to most countertop materials.
So, I researched about sealing and how to seal granite. Are you wondering how to do so too? I’ll share my research with you in this article.
This way, you can know about maintaining your granite countertop.
Are Granite Countertops Porous?
Generally, whether or not a material is porous stands as a significant aspect when considering whether to seal or not. So, one thing you’ll need to understand is if your granite countertop is porous.
Well, I’m here to tell you all about it.
Well, granite is a porous stone. That means that it can absorb liquids into it. Typically, it is this absorption of various liquids that cause it to get stained.
However, you will need to keep in mind that the porosity of granite differs. Precisely, some granite are more porous than others. That is why you must seal them.
This way, you can provide added protection to them.
How to Know If You Need to Seal Your Granite Countertops
Now that we have determined your countertop’s status regarding its porosity, we can dive further. Next, you’ll need to determine whether or not your countertop needs sealing.
So, how do you know that your countertop needs sealing? This is a question I battled with myself.
However, my research was able to put that to rest, and here is what I found.
To determine if your granite needs sealing, all you need to do is perform a simple test. This test will help you realize if it is time to get a sealant on your granite countertop.
So, here is the test.
- First, you need to spill a little water on your granite surface.
- Then, time the process
- If the area darkens within 10 minutes, then you need to seal your granite countertop
However, keep in mind that not all granite countertops need sealing. Some granite countertops do not need it. In most cases, this is thanks to their color.
For instance, the general rule is that dark-colored granite countertops hardly need sealing. As such, you’ll hardly need to seal countertops that have colors such as brown, black, green, and blue.
Regardless, apart from these colors, they will typically need sealing. You can perform the test above to determine when.
7 Steps to Sealing Granite Counters
If you have performed the test and decide to seal, you need to know how to do this. Well, that is why I’m here.
Here is a step-by-step approach on how to get your granite countertop sealed. You might want to consult us if you are not a DIY expert and the thought of this is too intimidating.
Test
The first step is to test for sealing. I’ve already discussed that above. So, do what I have listed above.
Clean
Next, you will need to clean the area where you want to seal. You’ll need to do this thoroughly and remove any form of dirt or debris on the granite.
You might need to get a granite cleaner or acetone to get this done. However, ensure that you get a high-quality cleaner.
Pour
Now, you will need to pour the sealer on the surface. However, you’ll need to ensure that what you’re pouring is for a small area rather than the whole countertop.
Apply
Next up, you will need to apply the sealant to the surface. At this stage, what you need to do is create a thin layer.
Spread the sealer using a clean cloth or paintbrush around the area.
Wait
The next stage requires patience from you. You’ll need to let the sealer stay on the surface for a while.
This way, the granite can absorb it. So. Wait for around 2 to 5 minutes, depending on the type of sealer.
Reapply
Next up, you will need to reapply the sealer to the surface. This is to ensure they get complete coverage of the area. So, after the first round dries, you want to apply it again.
All you will need to do is apply it, spread it on the surface again, then wait for the granite countertop to absorb it. Once you do this, you’re good to go.
Clean Up
You can’t just leave the surface like that. Once you finish applying it, the last stage is to clean up the surface.
This is even more important to remove the excess sealer that will be sitting on the granite countertop.
So, get a clean and dry cloth. Then, wipe the whole area with it. Ensure that you buff the granite countertop carefully for the best effect.
Once you have done all this, then you have successfully sealed your granite countertop.
How Often Do I Need to Seal Granite Countertops?
The reality is that sealing is not a permanent solution. You will need to do it regularly to keep your granite in the best condition.
You must know when it is time to reseal your granite countertop.
You can typically perform the water test we discussed above to know if your granite countertop needs resealing. Regardless, here are some other things to keep in mind.
- You might need to seal white and light-colored granite more regularly, one to three years
- Polished and dark-colored marbles need sealing less regularly, three to five years
- Normal sealers break down quite fast, so they need regular reapplication
- Permanent sealers never degrade, so you will only need one thorough application
Final Thoughts
You must know that it is your responsibility to keep your granite countertop in the best possible condition.
While regular cleaning is a great option, sealing your granite countertop will also go a great length.
However, you will need to know when to seal and how to seal your granite countertop. That is what we have explained in this article.
Read up and provide that needed durability to your granite countertop.
In case you need help sealing your granite, at RSK Marble and Granite, we can help you.
Our Boston countertop experts are available to answer all your questions. You can contact us on 978-447-1001 or reach us here for a quote.
Related Question
How to Remove Stains from Granite Countertops?
You can remove stains from your granite countertop through a specific poultice. Typically, this poultice will depend on the type of stain you want to remove, oil, ink, organic, inorganic, or coffee.
Can Water Stain a Granite Countertop?
Yes, water can stain your granite countertop, although not permanently. Once the water gets absorbed, it creates a dark spot, but it eventually evaporates, leaving your granite countertop clean again.
Can You Seal Granite Yourself?
Yes, you can seal your granite countertop yourself. All you need to do is follow the step-by-step guide provided, and you are good to go.