The frequency with which you need to reseal granite countertops will depend on several factors, such as the type of granite you’re using, the amount of traffic your countertop sees, and where the countertop is located.
Generally speaking, it’s recommended you reseal your granite countertops every 1-3 years to ensure they look their best and remain protected against wear and tear. If you live in an area with particularly harsh weather or have a kitchen with heavy use, you may need to apply additional sealant more frequently.
It is also important to watch for signs that your granite may need resealing, such as a discoloration or staining, as these can be signs that the sealant has started to wear off. Regular maintenance and resealing your granite countertops will keep them looking great for years to come.
What happens if you don’t reseal granite?
If you don’t reseal granite regularly, it can become increasingly susceptible to staining, dullness, and etching. Not resealing granite can also cause a buildup of dirt and grime, which can make it appear dirty or discolored.
Over time, if granite isn’t resealed, the water and other liquids it absorbs can seriously damage the surface of the stone. This can cause it to become weak and brittle, and can even lead to it cracking or chipping.
Furthermore, not resealing granite can make it vulnerable to bacteria, which can make it dangerous to use in food preparation areas.
How long does granite sealing last?
The duration of granite sealing depends on a variety of factors, such as the quality of the sealant used and the level of care taken to maintain it. Generally, the lifespan of granite sealing can last anywhere between 1-15 years depending on these factors.
The best way to ensure long-term protection and longevity of granite sealing is to use a high-quality sealant and to clean and reseal the surface on an annual basis. After the initial sealant is applied, the granite should be wiped down with a damp cloth after use and resealed regularly, preferably on an annual basis.
Additionally, a sealant designed specifically for natural stone should be used, as this provides superior resistance to water and stains.
Can you reseal granite yourself?
Yes, it is possible to reseal granite yourself. The best way to do this is to first thoroughly clean the granite to remove any dirt, debris, or grease. You can do this with a mixture of dish soap, warm water, and a nonabrasive scrubbing pad.
Once the granite is clean, you can use a sealer specifically designed for granite to seal the countertop. The sealant should be applied liberally to the surface, and you should use a cloth or brush to spread it evenly.
After the sealant has had time to dry, you should buff it lightly to make sure it has been distributed evenly. That’s all there is to it!.
Can granite be sealed permanently?
Granite is a naturally hard material, and when it’s properly sealed, it can last a lifetime. However, it is important to note that sealing granite does not make it permanently sealed. Granite will require regular maintenance to keep it looking it’s best and protect it from staining and damage.
When granite is initially sealed, it should be done with a professional-grade sealer designed specifically for natural stone surfaces. This sealer should be applied according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
It is also important to remember that granite should be resealed periodically, typically every 1-3 years, and more often in rooms with high moisture content (like a kitchen or bathroom). This will ensure that your granite surfaces stay protected and looking beautiful.
How do you clean granite that isn’t sealed?
Cleaning granite that isn’t sealed requires a bit more care than sealed granite. It is best to start with a mild cleaning solution, like a mixture of water and dish soap to remove any surface dirt. Make sure to not use any harsh cleaners, abrasive pads, or sponges, which will damage the granite.
To make the cleaning solution, mix together one teaspoon of dish soap with one quart of water. Dip a soft, clean cloth in the solution, and then wring it out, making sure that it’s not too wet. Rub the cloth over the granite in a circular, counter-clockwise motion.
For tough stains, add 1/4 cup of ammonia to 1 quart of water and apply it with a cloth. Fill a spray bottle with the solution and mist the area then wipe in the same circular, counter-clockwise motion.
Once you’re finished, rinse it off and let it dry. For everyday maintenance, you should dust and wipe down the granite often with a damp cloth. To protect it, you can use a granite sealer every 6-12 months to keep it in a good condition.
Is granite already sealed when installed?
When granite is professionally installed, it is typically pre-sealed prior to installation. However, this sealant will wear away over time due to everyday use, as well as deep-cleaning methods used to maintain the surface.
As a result, it is important to reseal your granite countertops every few years in order to protect them from water damage, staining, and bacteria growth. The sealing process is relatively simple, although the type of sealant used will vary depending on what type of granite you have.
Be sure to ask an expert which type of sealant is most suitable for your countertop.
Can you put too much sealer on granite?
Yes, you can put too much sealer on granite. When applying sealer to a granite countertop, it is important to use the recommended amount of sealer, as using too much can cause sealer to pool on the surface, leaving visible residue and potentially damaging the granite.
If the sealer pools, the countertop can become slippery and the sealer can become more difficult to remove. Over time, too much sealer can potentially cause discoloration in granite countertops, by cleaning off the sealer thoroughly instead of leaving it on the surface.
Additionally, sealer left on the surface too long can also lead to a cloudy effect over time. Taking care to not use too much sealer and ensuring it is thoroughly wiped off can help preserve the granite countertop in its original condition.
What granite does not need to be sealed?
Granite is a natural stone and is more porous than man-made materials, such as quartz and solid surface. As a result, it does require a bit of extra care such as sealing every 6-12 months. However, there are certain types of granite that don’t require sealing.
These are typically called “honed”, “matte”, “leathered” and “antiqued” finishes. The honing process which creates the natural look and feel of the stone also helps to reduce porosity so that it does not need to be sealed.
Additionally, certain types of granite that already have a seal on them also do not require additional sealing; this type of granite is usually labeled “pre-sealed” or “sealer-field ready”. When purchasing a counter top or other granite surface, always check to make sure that it does not need to be sealed.
Is 15 year granite sealer worth it?
Whether a 15 year granite sealer is worth it depends on a few factors, including the cost of the sealer, the material you are sealing, and the type of sealer. Generally speaking, high-quality sealers can be expected to last at least five years, and in some cases up to 15 years, so it might be worth investing in a more expensive 15-year sealer to protect your granite surfaces.
It’s important to note that most sealers only provide protection from water and oil-based liquids. Therefore, if your granite surfaces are particularly exposed to extreme weather conditions or are used for food preparation, you might want to consider a more specialized sealer to protect against harsher chemicals.
In addition, some sealers may require multiple applications to provide effective, long-term protection, so it’s important to read the product label to make sure you are using the sealer correctly. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if a 15 year granite sealer is worth the cost, but if you are looking for long-term protection with minimal maintenance, it could be a smart choice.
Can an existing granite countertops be refinished?
Yes, existing granite countertops can be refinished. Depending on the condition of the countertop, it may be possible to just refinish the countertop for a refreshed look. This will entail sanding and polishing the surface to remove scratches and other imperfections.
If the countertop is severely scratched, chipped or cracked, it may be necessary to replace it. Refinishing granite countertops is a bit of an advanced project, so it is recommended to consult a professional for assistance.
How do you know if your granite needs to be resealed?
In order to determine if your granite needs to be resealed, you should perform a simple water test. To do this, simply place a few drops of water on the surface of the granite and wait for a few minutes.
If the water soaks in and leaves a dark spot, then it is time for the granite to be resealed. If the water beads up and does not sink in, then the sealant is still in good condition. Additionally, if you notice discoloration, etching or scratches on the surface that weren’t there before, it may also be a sign that the sealant has worn down and it’s time to reseal.
It’s generally recommended that you reseal your granite once every 1-3 years, depending on the amount of use and the environment the granite is in.
What happens if granite is not sealed?
If granite is not sealed, it becomes more susceptible to staining, scratches, and damage from acidic foods and liquids. Without sealing, the porous surface of granite soaks up the liquids, trapping them underneath the surface, which can cause discoloration and etching.
Unsealed granite may also become a breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Without sealing, the granite may become dull and difficult to clean over time due to trapped dirt and other particles.
In addition, if not sealed properly, the surface of the granite may start to crack, chip or flake off over time. Sealing granite is an important part of granite care and it is important to reseal the granite periodically in order to maintain its natural beauty and longevity.
What can ruin granite countertops?
Granite countertops can be ruined if not sealed properly and regularly maintained. Granite is porous, allowing liquids and other substances to penetrate it, and must be properly sealed to protect it from damage.
Depending on the frequency of use, it is recommended that granite countertops be sealed every 6 – 12 months. In addition, anything left sitting on the counter, such as hot pots and pans, acidic foods, and even bleach, can potentially damage the granite if the counter is not sealed adequately.
Granite countertops can also become chipped or scratched by heavy or careless use of knives and other sharp kitchen objects. To avoid damaging the countertop, it is important to use cutting boards and avoid dragging objects across the surface.
Finally, if the granite countertop isn’t wiped down regularly with a cleaner designed for use with granite, it can dull or discolor it. Therefore, to ensure your granite countertop stays looking like new, it is important to regularly seal it, clean it, and be mindful when working in the kitchen.
