5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE SEALING YOUR GRANITE COUNTERTOPS
In order to maintain a beautiful kitchen, it's important to take proper care of your granite countertops. This solid stone is durable and has a stunning look, but it also requires maintenance to protect it and keep it looking its best.
Read on to discover five things you should know before you seal your granite to ensure the best results.
1. GRANITE IS A POROUS MATERIAL
Although granite is a hard and durable stone, granite is porous. This means if you spill something and your granite countertops aren't sealed, it could cause permanent stains and unsightly marks.
Brand new granite counters often have a sealant applied during installation. However, this sealant wears off over time, which is why reapplication is so crucial.
2. YOU SHOULD PERIODICALLY CHECK THE CONDITION OF GRANITE COUNTERTOPS
Before applying a new coat of sealant, take the "water test." Take 1/4 cup of water and pour it on the countertops. If the water stays "beaded" on top, your counters should not need sealant.
However, if the water appears to seep into the surface or you notice a dark spot, you should seal the granite. Make sure you perform the test in an inconspicuous area of your kitchen so it doesn't leave a noticeable spot or mark behind.
3. IT'S IMPORTANT TO CLEAN BETWEEN SEALINGS
Ideally, you should only need to seal your granite countertops every six months to a year, perhaps more frequently depending on use and traffic. If you spill something on the surface, it's important to utilize the proper cleaning methods to prevent any further damage. In general, we recommend using a washcloth or sponge and a gentle soap and water to remove dirt and food debris. Dry thoroughly after washing with a clean, dry towel. Avoid harsh abrasives or highly acidic solutions which can scratch and dull your granite countertops. Bleach can also dull the granite surface. If you feel you must use bleach to disinfect, use it only occasionally and make sure it’s well diluted. Rinse the surface thoroughly after application.
To remove stains, you can make a paste of baking soda and water and gently rub it into the stain with a soft cloth, then rinse thoroughly. You may need to repeat the process a few times for particularly stubborn stains.
4. USE SAFE, NON-TOXIC SEALERS
When you need to seal your granite countertops, it's important to use a non-toxic product. A quality sealer should not contain harsh chemicals that can cause irritation or emit strong odors, and you shouldn't have to use a mask or gloves to apply.
Anything full of harsh chemicals may end up doing more harm than good. Look for a sealer that's effective yet gentle enough to use on your counters so you don't need to worry about dangerous ingredients getting into your food or lingering chemical odors that may permeate throughout your home.
5. APPLY SEALANT CORRECTLY FOR GREAT RESULTS
Always apply granite sealant to clean, dry countertops. Follow the manufacturer's directions carefully to ensure proper application.
Make sure that you apply the sealer evenly so that it covers the entire surface from back to front, side to side, and over the edges. You may want to section-off areas of your countertop and apply one at a time to ensure no spots are missed. Allow the sealer to absorb into the granite before wiping off the excess. This simple process will keep your countertops protected and looking beautiful.
PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT WITH SEALER
With the right products and proper care, you can enjoy your granite countertops without worrying about every splash of tomato sauce or spill of red wine. Remember these five tips to keep your granite countertops glossy, safe, clean and protected.
