Do you have to Seal Granite Countertops?

After investing in granite countertops you want to ensure proper care so they will last for years to come.

Sealer must be applied every few years to granite countertops to protect and preserve the surface. When your stone countertops are newly installed your fabricator has applied a sealer to protect your new surface. After time you will need to apply a new coat of sealer to maintain your countertops.

A sure test to determine when it is time to apply sealer is to sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface of your stone countertop. If the water remains beaded on the surface for several minutes instead of absorbing then your sealer is fine. If the water soaks into the surface it is time to re-apply!

Sealers penetrate the open tiny cracks and crevices to prevent stains from being absorbed into the stone. Sealer must be re-applied every few years because the product can wear down and leave the surface open to damage. This is the same principle as applying a coat of wax to protect the paint job on your car.

Granite is a natural stone and has a porous surface leading to the potential for liquids and oils to penetrate the surface and cause stains. Sealers are made to protect and prevent that kind of damage to your stone countertops.

Some Granite Care “Do’s”:

• Do clean often with a soft cloth, mild dish soap and water.
• Rinse again with water if you use soap and then dry thoroughly.
• Do wipe up spills immediately!
• Do use a stone cleaner from time to time, it helps the sealer last longer.
• Do store your cooking oils and vinegars in your cabinet or on a tray.
• Do disinfect when needed with a 50/50 mix of Isopropyl alcohol and water

Honed or leathered granite countertop surfaces can leave a more open porous surface than a high gloss polish and may require a professional sealer more often than a high polished stone countertop. It is true that stone countertops require more upkeep than man-made surfaces, however, it is really a very simple process to apply the proper sealer every ten or more years under normal use.

Feel free to contact the professionals at Keystone Granitewerks to help recommend the best products for cleaning and sealing your granite countertop.