If your home boasts gorgeous granite countertops and you want to keep them in “show home” shape, you’ll need to seal them. Improper cleaning, frequent spills, and other everyday wear and tear can mar your surfaces easily. A high-quality sealant will soak into your countertops, filling in porous gaps to prevent damage.
Find out more about the importance of sealing your granite countertops below.
Granite Countertop Sealing Recommendations
Expert countertop manufacturers recommend sealing your granite countertops at least once a year. However, if you cook greasy meals frequently, you may need to seal them more regularly. Thanks to the advancements in nanotechnologies and polymers, long-lasting sealants are now more widely available and work perfectly for stain protection.
Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to seal your granite countertops.
Step 1: Determine if you should seal your countertops. You’ll need an inconspicuous testing area, such as a corner of your countertop, to put a few water drops. Next, put a few drops of oil a few inches away from the water drops. After 20 minutes, check if the water or oil has seeped in and darkened the granite.
If so, continue with our instructions for sealing your countertops. If nothing happens, then this might mean your countertops have recently been sealed.
Step 2: Clean your countertops one full day before selling them and make sure to avoid vinegar, baking soda, bleach, lemon juice, and harsh commercial cleansers. First, remove everything from your surfaces and wipe them down with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to remove dust. Next, mix one teaspoon of dishwashing detergent and two tablespoons of isopropyl alcohol in a small spray bottle and fill it with cold water.
Spray your countertops and wipe them clean while polishing in a circular motion using your cloth.
Step 3: Read your sealant’s label to understand its application method. Open your windows and doors for ventilation. We advise you to avoid sealing your countertops if it’s raining because you’ll need to be able to let fresh air in. We know you don’t want rain entering your home!
Step 4: Put on some rubber gloves and grab your rags. Test your sealant in a small area to ensure it won’t affect your countertop’s finish. If everything looks fine, apply a small amount per your manufacturer’s directions, by spraying or pouring it onto a cloth and rubbing it evenly throughout your countertops.
Step 5: Wait at least 15 minutes for the sealant to absorb into your countertops. Don’t let it sit for longer than a half-hour; otherwise, your stone may discolor.
Step 6: Gently wipe the sealant off with your cloth in a circular motion. Some products require a second coat, so if you need to apply another one, wait two days for your first layer to cure.
Granite 4 Less Can Help
Granite countertops are a luxurious, durable option that provides your space with a natural stone look. If you’ve had your countertops for a few decades, you may be in search of a replacement. Granite 4 Less fabricates and installs high-quality granite countertops.
Perhaps you’re looking for something new. Fortunately, we also offer marble and quartz countertop fabrication and installation. We work hard to complete your job on time and within your budget. We service the Salt Lake County area. Reach out to us today.