Do you have granite countertops in your kitchen? If so, did you know that stealing granite countertops is a part of regular maintenance?
Granite countertops started to really take off in the 1970’s and have remained a popular countertop over the years. These countertops are popular because of their durability, easy maintenance, and wide array of colors and textures.
A lot of granite countertops are installed already sealed, but we are here today to share why it’s important to seal granite countertops as regular maintenance. We want to make sure you get the most life out of your granite and keep it looking shiny and new as long as possible!
Why do you need to seal granite?
Did you know that granite is porous? Yes, natural stones like granite, marble, and limestone are in fact porous. Being porous means that these surfaces have minute spaces or holes through which liquid or air may pass. Because of its porosity,if you spill liquids, such as water, juices, or cooking liquids, it could cause bacteria and stains to form on your beautiful countertops.
Granite’s porosity is not as extreme as other stones such as marble and limestone, but still water absorption could ruin your granite countertops. Different colors and stones of granite are more porous than others. For some granite colors, dark spots may appear if a puddle is left unattended for a substantial period of time.
Because of the effects of liquids, experts recommend sealing your granite countertops every year, but that isn’t necessarily everyone’s rule of thumb.
When should you reseal your granite countertops?
Other experts suggest testing your countertops porosity to know when it’s time to reseal them. If you notice your granite isn’t as shiny as it once was, it may be time to perform this test. The water test is easy to perform and a great way to assess whether it’s time to seal granite countertops.
To perform this water test, follow the steps below:
- Pour ¼ cup of water on your countertop.
- Time how long it takes for the water to absorb into the granite,
- If the water did not absorb, then you do not need to reseal your countertops .
- If water absorption took 4 to 5 minutes, this means you will need multiple layers of sealer and will more than likely need to repeat in 3-5 years.
- If water absorption took 10 minutes, you will need to apply at least one layer of sealer and repeat the water test after a few years to assess.
- If water absorption occurs in the 30 minute timeframe you more than likely do not need to apply sealer right away, but should keep an eye on your countertops.
How to seal granite countertops
The suggestion to seal granite countertops as a part of regular kitchen maintenance can seem overwhelming. Although it may seem like a challenge, this practice really isn’t difficult.
To seal granite countertops, follow the steps below:
- Perform the water test to see what type of seal job is necessary.
- Clean countertops and allow them to dry for 24 hours.
- Read the granite sealer’s instructions to know how to apply sealer.
- Apply the seal to your countertops and allow it to absorb based off of the sealer’s instructions.
- Wipe off excess sealant and allow it to cure or repeat if your countertops need multiple coats.
- Once you have allowed enough time for the counters to cure, typically between 2-48 hours, then put your kitchen back together!
If you have granite countertops and learned today that sealing kitchen countertops should be a regular part of your kitchen maintenance, go ahead and do the water test tonight. Your granite countertops are too beautiful to become stained and damaged!
If you don’t have granite countertops, but are wanting a strong, durable countertop for your kitchen, reach out to us to set up a consultation! We would love to help make the countertops of your dreams a reality!
