Why is it Necessary to Seal Granite Countertops?

Granite is among the most luxurious, in-demand countertop material available. 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.

Avoid Staining

Unsealed granite absorbs liquid spills, which can cause staining. Something as simple as setting a carton of strawberries on the counter or spilling a bit of coffee can lead to stains in a matter of minutes. Even water can leave unsightly marks behind, making your counters look dingy even after wiping them clean.

Seal Out Bacteria

Stains aren’t the only things that liquid spills can leave behind on an unsealed granite countertop. The porous surface also harbors mold and bacteria, making your counters an unsanitary place to prepare food. Fortunately, sealing the granite stops microbial growth.

Prevent Damage from Harsh Products

Everything from acidic lemon juice to harsh bleach can eat away at natural stone surfaces, marring the finish and causing discoloration. The best way to avoid etching and other damage is to seal the granite. Even then, avoid harsh cleaners and stick with mild soap, water, and products designed specifically for cleaning countertops.

How to Seal Granite Counters

To keep your natural stone kitchen or bathroom countertops in beautiful condition, plan to seal them at installation and once a year after that. You’ll be pleased to learn that sealing granite is a straightforward process. Here’s how it’s done:

• Clear off the counters and wipe down the surface with a damp rag. If you run across any stains, treat them with a mild cleaner. Allow the countertop the dry completely.
• Choose a high-quality sealer designed to resist water- and oil-based stains.
• Wearing gloves, spray the sealer uniformly over the countertop. Work in small sections to ensure the sealer absorbs evenly into the slab.
• If the product you’re using recommends applying two coats, do so.
• After allowing the sealer to sit as long as recommended, wipe off any excess with a clean, dry rag. Watch for any hazy spotting that can occur if coverage is not even. Spray the cloth with sealant and buff any spots you find. They should disappear.
• Give the counter a few hours to dry before setting anything on it. To avoid any inconvenience, you may want to seal the granite slab immediately before going to bed.

Do you think granite or another type of natural or engineered stone could be the right countertop material for your home? If so, reach out to United Granite. We provide nothing less than the best products and services to our customers in Virginia, Maryland, DC, and New Jersey. Choose from an extensive inventory of natural and engineered stone, and enjoy one of the shortest lead times in the industry. For more information about granite countertop installation and maintenance, please send us an email or contact us in Alexandria, Chantilly, or Fredericksburg, VA.