Before you can decide whether sealing the granite is the right step for your kitchen countertops or floor tiles it is essential that you understand how sealant works to protect the surface.
Is it necessary to seal granite.
However if unsealed acidic substances can easily deteriorate the stone over time.
Here s why sealing granite countertops can preserve the beauty of the material for many years to come.
If left unsealed oils and liquids can penetrate into the pores and.
Check out the guide at the bottom of this article for how to seal granite or follow the manufacturer s instructions.
Multiple layers of sealer needed but only redo every 3 5 years.
Get a good quality granite countertop cleaner a granite sealer that s designed to resist water and oil based stains and some clean rags.
Once your sealant has set put your granite on a level surface and add a small amount of water on each side.
Use decorator s tape to divide your test granite in half and seal one half using the brand of sealant you plan to use on your countertop.
And if you re using a high quality alphatic resin granite sealer you don t need to keep re applying over the years.
1 x research source to test your surface leave a few drops of water or a wet paper towel on the granite for 10 to 15 minutes doing this in an inconspicuous area.
Natural stone is dense but is also naturally porous.
Unsealed granite absorbs liquid spills which can cause staining.
Why sealing granite is important.
Because granite is a very hard natural stone material you may think it would withstand all types of wear and tear you impose on it.
Although you may find that many countertops do not require being sealed applying a sealer is common practice.
Now use this chart to determine how often if at all you need to seal your granite countertop.
If the water beads up then your seal is doing its job.
Test whether the granite needs sealing.
Use this water test again before reapplying.
It literally takes minutes.
Follow the cleaner s directions first making sure the granite is dry before you start sealing.
Just sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface.
During your research you may have discovered that natural stone counters including granite must be resealed on occasion due to their naturally porous surface here s why it s necessary to seal granite countertops.
Granite is among the most luxurious in demand countertop material available.
Apply a couple layers of sealer annually and wipe spills quickly.
Sealing granite countertops is as easy as spray on let sit and wipe off.
If you re not sure whether it s time to re seal your granite countertops you can perform a simple water test.
If the water soaks into the granite it s time to reseal.
And one can of rock doctor granite stone sealer will handle around 100 square feet of countertop.
If it beads up great.
Why you need to seal granite countertops.