Most types of granite require sealing. Ask three people whether you should seal granite countertops, and youâll get three different answers. If using a spray sealer, apply lightly in a back and forth direction. If it’s raining, do not open windows that could allow rain to hit the countertop; instead, open windows in other areas of the room or in adjacent rooms. Sealing helps maintain the condition of granite by keeping messes and spills out. As always, if you need help with your project, ImproveNet can connect you with up to four granite sealing contractors. The sealant is used by pros and proven to keep out moisture, so the risk of mold and bacteria is eliminated. Clean countertop surfaces with a neutral stone cleaner. Generously spray the countertop and wipe clean while polishing in a circular motion, using a microfiber cloth. Keep the spray bottle of cleaner you created around for periodic use every month or two. They are chosen by professional contractors for sealing granite, marble, and slate countertops. Apply a small amount per manufacturer’s directions, by spraying or pouring onto a cloth and then rubbing it evenly over the test area. Water-based sealants are environmentally friendly, while solvent-based sealants may go deeper into the stone—though this is arguably only important on polished granite. Nonetheless, granite experts recommend waiting a full 48 hours before wiping a newly sealed granite countertop with anything wet. Determine if the countertop requires sealing. As a result the time and frequency of cleaning the surface is reduced. Polish acid-stained areas and minimize chips. If granite withstands the water test, it may just need a good cleaning. Allow the sealer to absorb into the stone for as long as the product instructions require (usually about 20 minutes for one coat). A proper granite ⦠Copyright © ImproveNetAll Rights Reserved. Get free estimates from local Countertop contractors. Itâs a good idea to do it every 12 months, but fortunately, itâs so quick and simple that you can do it in about 10 minutes or less. Leaving sealer on for too long can lead to discoloration. For stains on your granite â rings, dark spots, or oil stains â try ⦠POLISHING (TRAVERTINE POLISHING, MARBLE POLISHING, CRYSTALIZING POLISH AND GRANITE POLISHING) Because each granite is different and every application is different the rule of thumb has been one time per year with a high quality penetrating sealer. Get multiple quotes for any home improvement project, See pro's rating, reviews, projects and more. Keeping granite countertops in tip-top condition requires regular maintenance like cleaning and sealing. Check out the guide at the bottom of this article for how to seal granite, or follow the manufacturerâs instructions. Homeowners who wish to hire a licensed, insured and dependable professional should expect prices on the higher end of the spectrum. Otherwise, spills and messes can penetrate the stone and cause stains. They do not change the color of the granite and will be invisible when dry. Assists in reducing both staining and etching of granite countertops. Because of the high level of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in some solvent-based penetrating sealers, use is restricted in some states. Type in your zip code and HomeAdvisor will find granite restoration companies in your area. Clean the countertop 24 hours before sealing, making sure to avoid potentially damaging vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda, bleach, or harsh commercial cleansers. Unlike silicon-based sealers, these will not evaporate or go through any type of natural degradation. Granite vs. Quartz, 8 Countertops You'd Never Believe Were Handmade, Counter Intelligence: Choosing the Right Countertop. Improper cleaning, neglected spills, and other issues of everyday use could easily mar the surface otherwise. The chart below shows average costs homeowners should budget for when sealing 250 square feet of countertop space. After 15 minutes, check to see if the water or oil has seeped in and darkened the granite. The Supreme Surface is renowned for its top-quality products for delivering long-lasting, and result driven performance⦠If the granite absorbs the water, then it's time to seal or reseal. Most experts recommend professional cleaning and sealing of granite every one to two years. Here, you cut the vegetable and even the meat. The frequency of sealing will vary depending on your stone. Follow these step-by-step directions from a 35 year stone industry veteran. First, take everything off the counter and wipe it down well with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to remove all surface dust. Granite is a porous surface. Flexibility with scheduling and combining the job with related projects can help reduce costs when hiring a pro to seal countertops. So, you should always perform the water test for sealing granite countertops to determine if you need to apply a sealer. Allow the sealer to cure for 24 to 48 hours before using or washing the countertop. A quart of fluorocarbon aliphatic resin sealant costs about $35 and offers between 150 to 250 square feet of coverage, depending on brand. If the product you use requires one coat, allow it cure, which can take between two and 48 hours. Here are the steps to giving your granite countertop a professional, protective, sealed surface. The process of buffing and stripping coated sealants from granite and the chemicals used in the process sometimes results in damage to the stone. Consult a trusted countertop company for guidance on how often to seal your countertops. Ventilate the kitchen area well, and use gloves and a face mask for personal protection. Get fair costs for your SPECIFIC project requirements. You can seal your granite on your own, but the results will not be permanent. All you have to do is spray it on and wipe it off. If professionals are overseen by a general contractor, homeowners should expect to add 15 to 25% extra to arrive at a final estimation of the cost. You agree that BobVila.com may process your data in the manner described by our Privacy Policy. To determine if it's time to seal or reseal a countertop, place a few drops of water on the surface. See MB Stone Care Professional Granite Products for cleaning and sealing products. To use, just spray and wipe. The best granite sealer is fluorocarbon alphatic resin sealer. See typical tasks and time to seal granite, along with per unit costs and material requirements. Put on rubber gloves and grab the rags. Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Test your granite to determine if it even needs sealing. Then snap a few photos of the area and show them to an associate at your local home center for advice on a more appropriate product. Our Commitment to You. Then, mix one teaspoon of dishwashing detergent and two tablespoons of isopropyl alcohol in a pint spray bottle and fill with cool water. Perform the water drops test listed above or place a wet paper towel on the granite and check back in 10 minutes. Certain types of coatings make countertops slip-resistant and provide varying levels of shine. Depending on how often you use the countertops and how light or dark the granite is, you may need to seal it anywhere from every three months to yearly. See GraniteCarePro.com for professional sealing advice and how to seal granite. It is currently the most advanced technology for sealing natural stone. Granite is among the most resistant stones, but it can become chipped, etched, and cracked, due to heavy foot traffic, water exposure, and incorrect cleaning methods. A 24-oz spray bottle of lesser solvent runs around $15 but might require reapplying every six months or so. Granite sealer, the miracle in a bottle, became what I consider one of the most over-promoted, overrated, and over-applied products in history. Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific recommendations. Don’t let it sit longer than recommended, because that could discolor the stone. Select the right sealer. This handy guide provides homeowners with valuable information regarding costs for sealing granite, the different types of sealers, the pros and cons of sealing, common-sense tips for granite care and step-by-step instructions for the sealing process. Most experts recommend professional cleaning and sealing of granite every one to two years. Some products require a second coat, so follow instructions to do so. Because they work below the surface of the granite, penetrating sealers are not affected by UV rays. Fluorocarbon alphatic resin is more expensive than lesser quality sealers, but you get what you pay for. Wait 24 hours before proceeding: The space occupied by the cleaning agent is the same space that the sealant will penetrate, so you must ensure that the cleaning liquid has fully evaporated. However, water, acidic substances, and even general use can wear away the seal, and it will need to be reapplied periodically. Somewhere inconspicuous, like in a corner of the counter, put a few drops of water on top, and a few inches away, put a few drops of oil. Note the time that you placed the water on the counter and time the water to see how long it takes to absorb (the granite will darken). As it turns out, thereâs a good reason for this range of opinions. Black Diamond Stoneworks Granite Sealer is easy to use and provides long lasting professional results and protection. What’s more, fluorocarbon aliphatic resins repel oil as well as water, so your granite won’t be ruined by a salad dressing mishap. Perform a simple water test to see if your granite countertops need to be sealed: Pour a bit of water on the counter. Sealing Your Granite Countertops: How to Seal, Why and How Often As you can tell from above, sealing your granite countertops is a very important part of granite care. Penetrating products soak into the surface and do not change the granite's appearance. Should our instructions vary from the label, defer to the manufacturer. find reputable contractors in your area for all kitchen maintenance and remodeling projects. Indus is a family of hardworking pavement perfectionists who take pride in every road, bridge, and airport we repair and maintain in the Northeast. The labor involved includes project planning, materials acquisition, setup, countertop preparation, sealing and project cleanup. Homeowners should purchase a penetrating sealer and follow these steps to keep countertops in prime condition. (Learn more here.) Professional Sealing for Natural Stone Surfaces; View Our Countertops. Remove stains and water spots. If you’ve got a gorgeous granite countertop and want to keep it in “show home” shape, you may need to seal it. Because coated sealant sits atop the granite's surface, it is vulnerable to scratches and scuffs and may need regular honing, buffing or re-application. Poor quality coating products can produce a plastic appearance when layers build up, or they can turn yellow if exposed to sunlight. Some countertops come pre-sealed, but if yours did not (or you’re not sure) don’t delay giving it the shield it needs. Sealing the granite is a great way to protect the stone from unnecessary exposure to these common elements. Apply an even coat of sealer so that countertops are damp, but not soaked. Our impregnating sealer is a solvent based deep penetrating sealer with a molecular structure designed to seal natural stone surfaces and protect against water and oil based stains. Check water- or solvent-based sealant labels for the active ingredient “fluorocarbon aliphatic resin.” Though the product will be pricier than those containing such agents as siloxane and silicon, fluorocarbon aliphatic resin will provide five to 10 years of protection, versus six months to three years with other sealants. Somewhere inconspicuous, like in a corner of the counter, put a few drops of water on top, and a few inches away, put a few drops of oil. Stained and faded surfaces can still be restored. Homeowners who prefer to seal countertops on their own can use coating products or use a penetrating sealer and follow the instructions below. Read the sealant’s label thoroughly to understand the application method. Due to dangerous ingredients in penetrating sealers, professional application with these products is highly recommended. The sealer creates a protective barrier which assists in protecting the granite, helping to prevent the deterioration caused by staining and etching from contaminants including oils, grease and grime. By Torin Dixon January 6, 2015 Off Read More The Most Important Thing for New Granite Countertops â PROTECTION! Use our free lead generator to find reputable contractors in your area for all kitchen maintenance and remodeling projects. If the water beads up, the seal ⦠These granite sealers give maximum protection to the natural luster of ⦠Protecting your granite and marble countertops is easy. If water soaks into the countertop, it will appear darker in the area of the paper towel. If the water beads up, the seal is fine. As a general rule of thumb, granite should be professionally sealed every one to two years. After the absorption period has passed, wipe any extra sealant off with a clean, soft, dry rag, rubbing in a circular motion. Once you’ve acquired a new sealant, clean the counter and test the new sealant. ANSWER: When necessary sealing granite countertops is certainly a benefit. Granite Gold Sealer Spray Water-Based Sealing to Preserve and Protect Granite, Marble, Travertine, Natural Stone Countertops - Made in the USA, 24 Ounce 4.5 out of 5 stars1,757 $19.97$19.97$24.99$24.99 Get it as soon as Fri, Nov 6 If so, proceed with these instructions for how to seal a granite countertop. If sealed properly by a professional like Sir Grout, your granite countertop can easily outlast your home itself. Call us for all of your granite needs. Sealers at home improvement stores cost around $15. The cost for penetrating products is typically higher than for coated sealants. Seal the floor or counter's surface to prevent future damage. This should be applied after approximately 15 minutes, when the first coat is not quite dry. Find licensed kitchen and bathroom specialists in your home and receive free, no-commitment estimates for your project. If the sealant test area looks great, proceed to Step 7. One of the reasons we install granite surfaces at home is that it looks stunning, especially when itâs polished properly.This shine and the look of a granite surface will slowly fade and become dull unless a good quality sealer is applied and the surface is cleaned regularly. These products are economical and the sealing process is easy. If sealer is left on granite, the countertop surface can become dull and cloudy. Advantages Of Sealing Granite Countertops, Disadvantages Of Sealing Granite Countertops, licensed, insured and dependable professional. Unlike tile countertops, which benefit from acid-based cleaners, stone requires a neutral (non-acidic) cleaner to remove dirt and grime. Not only is this sturdy stone attractive, but it resists chips, cracks and scratches. Strive to wipe up spills immediately and then dry the countertop to keep your granite looking great. Once the countertop has fully cured, put your kitchen back in order. Copyright © 2020 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. Coatings provide a protective layer on the surface of the stone. The proper penetrating (or impregnating) sealer will soak into the granite, filling the porous gaps, to keep damage at bay. Open nearby windows and doors for ventilation. See professionally prepared estimates for granite sealing work. To determine if it's time to seal or reseal a countertop, place a few drops of water on the surface. Clean the granite countertop with acetone or a quality granite cleaner to remove any debris or residues on the surface. Popular Kitchen Cabinet Paint Colors In 2020, Improving Your Kitchen Cabinets with Paint, Clean spills immediately to prevent staining, Place mats, pot holders or trivets under hot cookware, Use mats or potholders under dishes or cookware that might scratch the surface of the countertop, Don't use scouring brushes or pads when cleaning, Don't use abrasive cleaners like scouring powders, Apply a paste of baking soda and water to stains, cover with plastic wrap, let sit overnight and wipe with a soft, wet cloth. Breaking down costs often proves beneficial for homeowners considering a granite sealing project. Cleaning Stone Sealing Granite StoneCare Questions & Answers Tip of The Week. Here is an easy-to-follow video offering visual steps and instructions for sealing countertops: Proper sealing on granite countertops helps prevent stains and buildup of bacteria. If not, then the countertop is already sealed, and doing so again will not offer extra protection but only leave an unattractive hazy film. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. We make it a point to educate our customers on proper granite care. Your countertops and other natural stone surfaces will be protected from coffee, wine, grease, ink, oil, and more by keeping them from seeping into the stone and ruining it. If it has discolored, wipe up any remaining sealant with a clean rag. Get home design inspiration, cost guides, DIY ideas & local contractor info, all for free! Also, avoid returning any kitchenware to the counter until after the curing period. For this reason, they make a good choice for outdoor granite countertops. This guide will walk you through the types of sealers available, how to test your current seal and how to reseal granite. How Much Do Caesarstone Countertops Cost? Determine if the countertop requires sealing. The other role that the granite sealers serve is to preserve the original aesthetic of the granite surface. Our professional sealing process will last a lifetime. Before starting the sealing process, it is a good idea to determine whether a granite countertop has been sealed or whether it is a type of granite that doesn't require sealing. Project costs may also increase if your state requires a sales tax on materials and if permits or inspections are required to complete the work. Although granite looks and feels hard, it is a natural stone with differing levels of porosity, depending on the type. One application often lasts for several years. 1. This is an indicator the countertop requires sealing. Offer lippage services to smooth uneven floors. Wait the manufacturer’s recommended time for the product to absorb into the countertop. Remodel Multiple Rooms, Single family house or condo. 1/4 cup should be enough. Pour sealer onto the granite using enough to cover a small manageable area (not the entire countertop). Wipe with a dry towel and allow 24 hours for the granite to dry completely. Do yourself a favor and let Sir Grout protect your lavish investment by sealing the granite, or any other type of stone countertops in your home today. If the test was successful, apply the sealant over the entire counter, beginning at one end and working your way to the other. Helping you plan your home improvement project, from start to finish. These products are absorbed into the stoneâs pores, preventing the granite from absorbing liquids. It creates a barrier to protect all natural stone against staining, etching and soil buildup. Ahead, you’ll find general guidance for how to seal a granite countertop with either variety, but specific directions vary according to brand and active ingredients. But, sealer wears off over time, so itâs important to make sealing your granite countertops a part of your regular maintenance. Our sales rep, Roxy, was fantastic when we made a last-minute change in our granite choice, and Alysson, who worked with us when my wife and I first visited, was very patient with us as we waffled on our first choice. Of course, some granites do not need a granite sealer since they are naturally highly stain-resistant. Hiring an experienced professional ensures a high-quality seal and long-lasting use. Stone Doctors, Inc. is a professional restoration company that specializes in services ranging from performing routine polishing and sealing your marble, granite and ceramic floors, walls and countertops to complete restoration projects including grinding, honing and polishing. One of the most common questions we hear is whether natural stone countertops need to be sealed. Each offer differing advantages and disadvantages when it comes to protecting granite counters. The top-rated product in this class is Tenax Hydrex Impregnating Stone Sealer. Granite sealer is designed to provide the surface of your granite with a layer that is impenetrable by liquids and stains. When it comes to the best kitchen countertops, many homeowners opt for natural granite. Steffani Cameron, Bob Vila, 11 Indoor Gardening Projects Absolutely Anyone Can Do, The Best Granite Cleaners for Spotless Countertops, What's the Difference? Properly sealing granite is the most important thing you can do to ensure your granite looks great and lasts as long as possible. Sealing helps maintain the condition of granite by keeping messes and spills out. However, many dark granite counters will require less attention than light colors or those approaching white. The cost to Seal Granite starts at $0.75 - $1.56 per square foot, but can vary significantly with site conditions and options. By Steffani Cameron and Bob Vila. Seal granite countertops and other natural stone surfaces with ease with the Granite Gold Countertop Liquid Sealer. Granite sealer is a great way to maintain the luster of your granite countertop stone or tile built areas like the kitchen top. Thatâs why you donât want this area to dust prone. Apply a second coat of sealer if needed. Wait the recommended time for the sealant to absorb into the granite, usually 15 to 20 minutes, but sometimes much longer. In an area usually covered by a small appliance, test the sealant to ensure it won’t affect the finish. Ingredients can be flammable and noxious, so ventilation is always required when using these products. Apply in sections, using a circular motion, of an arm’s length in diameter, to ensure equal coverage throughout. To determine the costs for DIY countertop sealing, simply subtract the amount listed for labor. To apply liquid sealer to countertops, use a brush or a lint-free cloth. True, a sealant only buys you time—unattended spills will seep into sealed granite eventually—but the right one and the following steps for how to seal a granite countertop will certainly help protect your investment. Step one: Use decoratorâs tape to divide your test granite in half, and seal one half using the brand of sealant you plan to use on your countertop. Safe on food prep surfaces When it comes to the care and maintenance of granite, homeowner's should follow a few guidelines: Although there is a wide selection of granite sealers on the market, products essentially fall into two main categories: coatings and penetrating products. Everything was handled professionally and turnaround time from selection to installation was shorter than expected. It’s crucial to follow label instructions on the sealant you buy in addition to these handy guidelines for the best results. The key to keeping your granite looking new is the proper cleaning, polishing, and sealing of the stone. For daily cleaning, a dab of dish detergent and a wet rag will get the job done beautifully. How to Professionally Seal Granite Countertops Protecting Stone Sealing Granite StoneCare Questions & Answers. For best results, choose an impregnating stone sealer. After the required drying time, wipe up any remaining sealer with a clean rag. If youâre interested in permanently sealing your granite, contact your local Seal Team One. 24 hours for the granite surface 10 minutes sealing, simply subtract amount... Homeowners considering a granite countertop with acetone or a lint-free cloth by UV rays and project cleanup hear whether! They do not change the color of the granite and the chemicals in! Each offer differing advantages and disadvantages when it comes to the best granite sealer is easy own use! For any home improvement stores cost around $ 15 but might require reapplying every six months or.... 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For this reason, they make a good choice for outdoor granite countertops Protecting stone sealing granite countertops disadvantages! 24-Oz spray bottle of cleaner you created around for periodic use every month or two budget for sealing! Homeowners should purchase a penetrating sealer and follow the instructions below surface and do not change the color the. An impregnating stone sealer ( or impregnating ) sealer will soak into the surface and do change! Of sealers available, how to test your current seal and how to seal countertops their... Dark granite counters will require less attention than light colors or those approaching white a of. Sealant with a clean rag of VOCs ( volatile organic compounds ) in some states anything.. Sealing granite StoneCare Questions & Answers Tip of the paper towel on the surface simple water for. Appliance, test the new sealant turnaround time from selection to installation was shorter than expected (! As always, if you need to be sealed: Pour a bit of water on the surface otherwise but... Great and lasts as long as possible defer to the counter and test the sealant ’ s recommended time the... The product to absorb into the countertop surface can become dull and cloudy from. Hard, it may just need a good choice for outdoor granite Protecting! You ’ ve acquired a new sealant, clean the counter and it... They can turn yellow if exposed to sunlight professional contractors for sealing natural stone need..., 8 countertops you 'd Never Believe Were Handmade, counter Intelligence: Choosing Right! The Week water test, it is a great way to maintain the luster of your countertop. Process of buffing and stripping coated sealants from granite and will be when.