If the water soaks into the granite it s time to reseal.
Is it necessary to seal granite.
And if you re using a high quality alphatic resin granite sealer you don t need to keep re applying over the years.
Get a good quality granite countertop cleaner a granite sealer that s designed to resist water and oil based stains and some clean rags.
Granite like many natural stones is porous.
If you re not sure whether it s time to re seal your granite countertops you can perform a simple water test.
And one can of rock doctor granite stone sealer will handle around 100 square feet of countertop.
Here s why sealing granite countertops can preserve the beauty of the material for many years to come.
Although you may find that many countertops do not require being sealed applying a sealer is common practice.
Why sealing granite is important.
1 x research source to test your surface leave a few drops of water or a wet paper towel on the granite for 10 to 15 minutes doing this in an inconspicuous area.
Now use this chart to determine how often if at all you need to seal your granite countertop.
Check out the guide at the bottom of this article for how to seal granite or follow the manufacturer s instructions.
Apply a couple layers of sealer annually and wipe spills quickly.
Use this water test again before reapplying.
Why you need to seal granite countertops.
Use decorator s tape to divide your test granite in half and seal one half using the brand of sealant you plan to use on your countertop.
Multiple layers of sealer needed but only redo every 3 5 years.
Unsealed granite absorbs liquid spills which can cause staining.
Natural stone is dense but is also naturally porous.
Follow the cleaner s directions first making sure the granite is dry before you start sealing.
However if unsealed acidic substances can easily deteriorate the stone over time.
It literally takes minutes.
Sealing granite countertops is as easy as spray on let sit and wipe off.
Just sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface.
Granite is among the most luxurious in demand countertop material available.
Test whether the granite needs sealing.
One of the most important steps to take is to seal the granite regularly.
During your research you may have discovered that natural stone counters including granite must be resealed on occasion due to their naturally porous surface here s why it s necessary to seal granite countertops.
If the water beads up then your seal is doing its job.
Once your sealant has set put your granite on a level surface and add a small amount of water on each side.
At least once every five years a sealant should be applied to prevent staining from oils water and other liquids if your granite countertop is properly sealed liquids and oils will bead on top of it rather than seep into.
Because granite is a very hard natural stone material you may think it would withstand all types of wear and tear you impose on it.