Whether or not to seal granite countertops is a personal decision; however, there are some key considerations to be aware of. Granite is a porous material and can absorb liquids such as red wine or juice.
Sealing typically consists of applying a sealant to the countertop in order to reduce the absorption of liquids and other food-borne contaminants. It not only prevents staining, but also makes the surface easier to clean and maintain.
Countertops made out of granite should be sealed every one to two years. Many granite countertops will come pre-sealed at the time of installation but it’s important to check with your supplier before you start using the countertop.
Most sealants will last for several years; however, if you notice the surface becoming dull or if someone spills something on the countertop, it’s a good idea to reapply the sealant.
To sum up, it’s up to you whether or not you decide to seal your granite countertops; however, sealing can be beneficial to help prevent staining, make cleaning and maintenance easier, and prolong the life of your countertops.
What happens if you don’t seal your granite?
If you don’t seal your granite countertop, it will be far more susceptible to staining and discoloration, as well as surface damage. Specifically, granite is susceptible to etching and damage from acidic substances, such as certain food and drink.
Over time, acidic substances can etch the surface, and the granite can be permanently damaged and stained. In addition, skipping the sealant makes granite far more susceptible to bacterial build-up and mold.
Therefore, it’s important to regularly clean and seal your granite countertop in order to protect its surface and prolong its lifespan.
Is it really necessary to seal granite countertops?
Yes, it is really necessary to seal granite countertops. Sealing is a critical step in maintaining the natural beauty of granite countertops and preventing damage caused by spills, acids, and bacteria.
It is recommended that granite countertops be sealed every 12 to 18 months, more often if they are used on a regular basis. Sealing will protect both the surface of the granite as well as the interior of the stone that is exposed to the pores.
It will also help prevent staining and scratching that can occur over time if the granite is not properly sealed.
How often do granite counter tops need to be sealed?
Granite countertops should typically be resealed once every year to 18 months with a high-quality sealer. However, it is important to test the sealer before and after application to ensure that the sealant is adequately protecting the surface.
If moisture begins to penetrate the surface, you may need to reseal your granite more frequently. Factors such as the amount of daily use, kitchen traffic, the type of granite and type of sealer used will also affect how often you will need to reseal your granite.
Other important steps to maintain the longevity of your granite countertops include regularly cleaning the surface with mild soap and avoiding the use of harsh cleaners, acidic liquids and abrasive materials.
How much does it cost to seal your granite?
The cost to seal your granite will depend on a variety of factors, such as the type of granite you have, how much granite you need to seal, and the quality of sealant you choose. The size of your project and the quality of the sealant can also affect the cost.
Generally, it will cost an average of $0. 50 – $15 per square foot to seal granite countertops. However, high-end sealants can run as high as $60 per square foot. The cost can also be more if a professional is required to seal the countertop.
It is important to note that granite should be sealed at least once a year to protect it from staining and discoloration, so the cost of sealing may be a recurring expense.
How long does granite sealing last?
The length of time that a granite seal will last depends on a variety of factors, including the quality of the sealer used, the frequency of maintenance and cleaning, the density of the stone, and the way the stone is used.
Generally speaking, a quality sealer should last between 3 to 5 years. It is recommended to inspect and reseal your granite countertops every 2-3 years to keep them looking at their best. It is also important to regularly clean and maintain granite countertops in order to help extend the life of the sealer.
Proper cleaning and maintenance includes cleaning the surface with a mild detergent or stone cleaner, drying the surface completely, and then applying an appropriate sealer according to the manufacturer’s directions.
For best results, it is recommended to use a granite sealer specifically designed for use on natural stone. As with any type of sealer, regular maintenance and inspection will help to ensure its longevity and keep your granite countertops looking beautiful for years.
Does sealing granite make it shiny?
No, sealing granite does not make it shiny. Sealing granite helps to protect it from stains and other damage, but it does not change the appearance or finish of the stone. Granite is naturally glossy and shiny, but this glossiness can be affected by the type of finish applied to the stone.
Polished granite is often the shiniest, with honed and leather finishes producing a softer luster. However, sealing does not create any sort of glossy effect.
How do you clean granite that isn’t sealed?
Cleaning unsealed granite is a multi-step process that begins with mopping the surface with a clean, damp mop or cloth. Once done, you must use a grease-cutting cleaner to remove grease and food particles from the surface.
To make the cleaner, mix 1 teaspoon of mild dish soap with 2 cups of warm water in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture liberally onto the granite and scrub with a soft bristle brush. Rinse the area with a damp cloth or mop and dry thorough with a dry cloth.
For added protection against bacteria and stains, it is also recommended you seal the granite every two years (even if it is not unsealed). To do this, use a clean, dry cloth to apply the granite sealer in a circular motion.
Allow the sealer to penetrate the surface for a minimum of 15 minutes before wiping off any excess with a clean, dry cloth.
How long does sealant last on granite?
The amount of time that sealant will last on granite depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of sealant you use, the quality of the sealant, the environment your granite is exposed to, and even how porous the granite is.
Generally speaking, some sealants can last up to 5 years, while others may need to be applied more frequently, every 3-12 months. To maintain the best sealant protection on granite, it is recommended to reseal your granite every 6-12 months.
This will ensure proper protection against dirt, oils and other liquids that may penetrate the stone. Additionally, it is important to regularly clean and care for the granite to avoid any damage to the sealant.
Can you seal your granite too often?
No, you should not seal your granite too often. It is not necessary to seal the granite more than once every few years. In fact, applying too many sealers could actually cause damage to your granite countertop.
Sealing granite countertops should be done once every three to five years to maintain their beauty and protection. Additionally, if you are going to use a cleaner that contains acid, bleach, or ammonia, these can potentially cause damage to the sealer and should be avoided.
It is also important to note that excessive sealing can actually lead to the buildup of residue on the countertop which may interfere with the functionality of the granite surface. Lastly, make sure to choose a sealer that is designed for granite countertops to ensure maximum protection and safety.
What kind of sealant do you put on granite countertops?
The best kind of sealant to put on granite countertops is a high-quality, food-safe sealer, specifically designed to protect granite surfaces. These sealers create an invisible barrier that repels liquid and helps prevent staining, discoloration, and bacteria growth.
It is important to note that most sealers must be applied on a regular basis in order to maintain their protective effect.
In terms of application, sealants come in both liquid and wax versions. Liquid sealants are preferred by most professionals as they are easier to apply and offer long-term protection. Waxes, on the other hand, require more frequent application, but also provide a more natural finish with a bit of a matte look.
Regardless of which sealant you choose, always make sure that it is food safe and of good quality. There are some sealants on the market that are overly aggressive, causing discoloration, fading, and staining.
The best way to ensure your granite countertops stay looking pristine for years to come is to do the research and find a sealant that is best suited for your granite.
Can you permanently seal granite?
Yes, granite can be permanently sealed. Granite is a porous stone that can easily absorb stains and liquids, so sealing it is necessary to protect it and keep it looking like new. Typically, a sealer should be applied every 2-3 years in order to keep the granite in good condition.
A quality granite sealer will form an invisible barrier on the stone’s surface, preventing it from absorbing liquids or any particles that could cause damage to the stone. By sealing granite regularly, you can prevent liquid-based stains from seeping into the porous surface, or from bacteria and mold from forming in the cracks and crevices of the stone.
Sealing granite will also make it much easier to clean and help protect it from scratches and scuffs. Keep in mind that sealing granite does not make it completely stain-proof, as acidic substances such as vinegar, lemon juice, and wine can still penetrate the surface and may require more diligent cleaning.
Therefore, be sure to follow the directions of your sealer and reapply it periodically in order to ensure the best protection and longevity of your granite.
Should you polish or seal granite?
Granite is a durable material that lasts for many years, but it still requires maintenance to keep it looking its best. When it comes to protecting granite, there are two common options – polishing and sealing.
Polishing granite helps to restore the natural sheen of the surface and makes it look more vibrant. Sealing granite helps protect it from staining, discoloration and water damage.
Polishing your granite should be done every year, while sealing it should typically be done every three to four years. Polishing can be done with a variety of tools, such as polishing pads, buffing tools, or even specialized cleaning solutions.
Sealing should also be done with a specially formulated sealant, applied in thin layers and allowed to dry thoroughly.
Whether you choose to polish or seal your granite, it is essential to use the proper tools and techniques to ensure the best results and protect your investment. Many specialty granite suppliers offer professional polishing and sealing services, so it is always best to contact a professional if you are unsure how to properly care for your granite.
