Granite countertops add a natural elegance to your home. Unfortunately, they’re also porous, meaning they’re easily stained by liquids and oils and etched by cleaners and acidic foods. You can prevent this damage by periodically applying a sealer, which causes substances to bead on top of the countertop rather than soak into it. Seal it right after installation and then every one to five years. To determine when it needs resealing, dribble a little water on it and wait 15 minutes. If the water soaks into and darkens the granite instead of beading up, follow these steps. 

A Guide to Granite Countertop Sealing

1. Choose the Right Sealer

Look for a carbon resin sealer designed specifically for granite or at least for natural stone. The label should mention “fluorocarbon aliphatic resin,” an ingredient that provides many years of protection. If you’re willing to spend a little more, some sealers will last for longer than the average one to five years.

2. Clean the Countertop 

Use a stone cleaner or water and dish soap to remove any residue from your countertop and prepare it for sealing. Wipe with a lint-free cloth or towel and let the countertop dry for 24 hours.

3. Test the Sealer

Put on gloves and open a window to ventilate the area and prevent unpleasant vapors from lingering in your home. Apply the sealer to a small portion of the countertop to ensure it doesn’t discolor the granite or leave a residue. If it does, look for another sealer before continuing.

4. Apply the Sealer

Evenly cover the countertop with the sealer so it’s damp but not soaked. If the sealer doesn’t come in a spray bottle, apply it with a dry, clean, lint-free cloth. Check the sealer’s instructions to determine how long you should leave it on and whether you should apply a second coat. 

5. Wipe Away the Remaining Sealer & Wait

To prevent a hazy residue from lingering, wipe up the leftover sealer with a clean rag. After that’s done, avoid using or washing the counter for 48 hours; if you don’t give it time to cure, the sealer won’t protect your countertop as effectively. 

Get your high-quality granite countertops and all the necessary know-how from Surplus Sales. With locations in Corbin, Corbin, Paducah, and Elkton, KY, this family-owned and -operated business has specialized in home improvement for 25 years. They offer a wide variety of granite colors to complement any design and will install your countertop with precision and efficiency. Learn more about their comprehensive services online. To start planning your installation, call (606) 523-9166 for the Corbin location, (270) 443-4590 for Paducah, or (270) 265-0270 for Elkton.