If you’re considering granite countertops for your kitchen, you might be wondering if they require any special care. Granite is a durable and heat-resistant material, but it is also porous. This means that it can absorb stains if it’s not properly sealed. But don’t let this deter you from choosing granite! Sealing your countertops is a simple process that only needs to be done once or twice a year. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about sealing granite countertops.
What is Sealing?
Sealing is a process that helps to protect granite countertops from stains. Granite is a porous material, which means that it can absorb liquids and oils. This can lead to staining, especially if you’re using your countertops for cooking or food preparation. Sealing your countertops will create a barrier that will prevent stains from penetrating the surface of the stone. This seal will prevent water from absorbing into the stone, and also makes them easier to clean.
Do Granite Countertops Need Sealing?
There are multiple types of countertops that regularly need to be sealed. These materials are typically natural, porous stones. With that being said, granite countertops do need to be sealed. Granite is a tough stone, and a popular one in kitchens at that. It has many benefits over other materials thanks to its durability and heat resistance. Despite that, it is still a porous stone.
Sealing is a simple process that only needs to be done once or twice a year. It will protect your countertops from stains and make them easier to clean. So if you’re considering granite for your kitchen, go ahead and seal the deal!
Benefits of Sealing
Sealing your granite countertops has several benefits. These include:
- Prevent stains on your countertops. When your countertops are not sealed, liquid that comes in contact with the stone will absorb into it and likely stain.
- Reduce etching. If you spill something acidic on your countertops, such as lemon juice, it will actually cause damage to the countertops. When they are sealed, this is partially prevented.
- Easier to clean. The seal on the granite countertops will actually help you clean faster. You can easily wipe up dirt and grease, as well as any liquids. You will not need to scrub your counters down for an excessive amount of time.
- Keep your counters looking new. The seal on your granite countertops will keep them looking shiny and new, as if they were newly installed – even after years have passed.
How Often Should You Seal Granite Countertops?
You should seal your granite countertops once or twice a year. If you use your counters regularly for cooking and food preparation, you might need to seal them more often. You can tell if your countertops need to be sealed if they appear dull or stained. Sealing is a simple process, so there’s no need to worry about doing it too often. That biannual sealing will ensure that your granite countertops are looking shiny, new, and clean.
How to Seal Granite Countertops
Sealing granite countertops is a simple process. You can do it yourself with a granite sealer, or hire a professional to do it for you. Either way, sealing your countertops will protect them from stains and keep them looking like new for years to come.
Before you seal your granite countertops, you will want to make sure that they are clean. Make sure you are using the correct products to clean your countertops so you do not cause any harm to them.
Once you have cleaned your countertops, it is time to seal them. It is smartest to use a sealer that is made for natural stone. Spray a generous amount of the sealer onto your countertops and give it time to absorb into the stone. The instructions on how long to wait will be on the bottle of the sealer.
After the sealer is set and done according to the directions on the bottle, you can polish your countertops. This provides the beautiful shine of granite countertops, as well as reinforcing the seal you just put on. You should wait a full day after the seal has gone on and cured before you polish the counters.
After polishing, enjoy your newly sealed countertops!
Contact Kitchen Express for Sealed Granite Countertops
Are you looking to install granite countertops into your home near Greensboro, North Carolina? If so, contact us here at Kitchen Express! With over twenty years of experience in the kitchen remodel industry, our staff is able to help you create the kitchen of your dreams. Whether that dream includes granite countertops or another type of stone, we are here to make that a reality.
Contact us today using the form below or give us a call. Someone will be able to speak with you about what exactly you are looking to do in order to upgrade your kitchen. We look forward to helping you soon!
