Discover the truth behind the age-old question, “Do I Need To Seal Granite?” with this informative article.
Learn how sealing can help maintain the beauty of your countertops or tiles over the long-term.
Granite is a natural stone often used for kitchen countertops and other surfaces because of its beauty and durability.
Like any granite owner, you may wonder whether you need to seal your granite.
Granite is porous and can absorb liquids, leading to stains when not correctly sealed.
Sealing granite is a simple method that protects the stone from liquids and stains.
This article will detail whether you should seal granite and why.
Must Granite Be Sealed?
You selected granite for its stunning appearance and toughness.
However, did you know that sealing is also vital to protecting your investment?
Granite is a porous material susceptible to stains from everyday spills and accidents.
Sealing your granite is a simple and effective solution to eliminate these risks.
Not all types of granite need to be sealed, but it’s advisable to be safe.
If your granite is a light color or has a high level of translucency, it’s more likely to stain and should be sealed. Common types of granite that need to be sealed include Carrara, Calacatta, and Crema Marfil.
On the other hand, denser, darker granites such as Black Galaxy and Absolute Black usually don’t need to be sealed.
However, it’s still recommended that they be sealed to protect them from scratches and to accentuate their natural color.
Use The Water Test To Make Sure
Wondering if your granite countertops need to be sealed? That’s a common question, and there’s a simple process to find out.
You can carry out the water test on your granite finish to determine whether sealing is absolutely necessary.
To determine if your granite is sealed, place a few drops of water on its surface and wait 10 minutes.
Your granite is already adequately sealed if you see beads of water on the surface of the stone.
However, if the stone absorbs the water, it must be resealed.
Do I Need To Reseal Granite?
Resealing your granite countertops is vital to safeguard your investment and assure longevity.
When you reseal your granite, you create a barrier that protects the stone from these elements and prevents damage over time.
Signs that your granite needs to be resealed include a dull appearance, stains, or discoloration.
You can hire someone or do it yourself using a high-quality sealer. If you reseal your granite regularly, it’ll stay beautiful and be protected from daily wear and tear.
How Often Do I Need to Seal Granite?
The frequency of sealing granite countertops relies on various factors.
These include frequency of use, exposure to stains and spills, and the type of granite.
On average, it’s recommended to reseal granite every 1-3 years.
However, it’s essential to watch for signs such as stains or discoloration that indicate your granite needs to be resealed sooner.
If any of these signs crop up, it’s time to reseal as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Protecting and preserving your granite countertops through sealing is crucial to maximizing their lifespan and value.
With the proper sealing and maintenance, your granite countertops will enhance your home’s appearance for a long time.
