How to Seal Granite Countertops

Without a doubt, granite is one of the most popular countertop materials. If you already have this in your bathroom or kitchen, you may be wondering about the right process of how to seal granite countertops. Granite does not crack or chip easily, is highly heat resistant, and it does not stain easily. But don’t make the mistake of thinking that granite countertops are maintenance-free though because they are not. Although they do not need major upkeep on a regular basis, they do need to be sealed on occasion. This is especially true if your granite countertops are new.

Part of Stone World's services aside from granite countertop installation is granite sealing. We use only the best quality materials when sealing your granite countertops, granite table top, and more. This way, you can be sure that the beauty, durability, and vibrance of your countertops will remain the same for many more years to come. Read on to learn more about sealing granite countertops and why you need this kind of service.

Do My Granite Countertops Need Sealing?

If you have newly installed granite countertops you first have to determine how often they need to be sealed. This can be done with a simple water absorption test. Start by pouring about ¼ cup of water on your granite countertop in the center of it.
  • If the water absorbs into the granite very quickly, you will need to add one or two coats of sealer to your granite countertop immediately and then a single coat every year after that.
  • If it takes about 5-minutes for the water to get absorbed, you will need to put a coat or two of sealer on your granite countertops right away and then repeat every 2 to 3 years.
  • For water absorption that takes around 10 minutes, you probably don’t have to apply sealer right away and should do it about once every 3 to 4 years.
  • If it takes 20 to 30 minutes for the water to become absorbed, then your granite countertop is not very porous. Sealing it once every 5 years or so should be adequate and it does not have to be done immediately.

The Granite Countertop Sealing Process

Here are the steps that will teach you how to seal granite countertops:

Step 1: First you must choose the right sealant. You will need what is called an impregnating stone sealer. You can find these at any home improvement center or specialty tile store. Get one that covers roughly 160 - 180 square feet per quart and dries in less than 10 minutes for the best results.
Step 2: Next clean your countertop thoroughly using regular dish detergent or specially formulated stone countertop cleaner. Make sure you get every bit of residue off of the countertop. Allow the countertop to completely air dry.
Step 3: Using a lint-free cloth you will next apply the sealer. Do not pour out the sealer onto the countertop. It works best if you pour a small amount of sealer onto the dry cloth and then spread it onto the countertop that way. Make sure you work it into the surface well by using a circular motion with slight pressure. Don’t forget to do the edges of the granite countertop and the backsplashes too.
Step 4: If you feel a second coat is needed, then wait about 10-15 minutes for the first coat to dry before applying it.
Step 5: Do not use your counters for the next 24-hours. Once that time passes you are safe to prepare food on your granite countertops again.

If you have followed along closely with the instructions above, then you will now know how to seal granite countertops. It will help keep your granite countertops looking great well into the future

Call for Professional Granite Sealing Services

The above procedure and information may have already helped you a lot in learning how to seal granite countertops. Simple as it may seem, it is a tedious process that require skills and expertise. A small mistake may lead to granite damage. If you are in Orlando, Maitland, Longwood, Winter Park, Deltona, Sanford, Windermere, Ocoee, Lake Mary, Clermont, and nearby areas, call Stone World for granite sealing services. You may reach us at 407-341-4688 for a free estimate.