Sealing Granite Worktops

Granite Worktops Sealing

Granite worktops are consistently one of the most popular choices for kitchens and bathrooms due to their timeless beauty, UV resistance, resistance to heat and durability. However, to maintain the elegance and longevity of your granite kitchen worktops, it’s necessary to understand the importance of sealing them. 

In this article, we explore the benefits of sealing granite worktops, the sealing process, and maintenance tips to improve longevity.

Why Sealing Your Granite Worktop is Important

Granite is a natural stone, composed of minerals like quartz, mica, and feldspar. This unique composition makes granite porous, which means it can absorb spills and moisture, leading to surface stains and damage. 

Sealing granite countertops creates a protective barrier that prevents liquids, germs and stains from penetrating the stone’s surface. This increases the durability and lifespan of your worktop and makes the surface easier to clean, allowing for easier maintenance going forward.

How to Seal Your Granite Worktop 

Here are the steps you can follow to seal your granite kitchen worktop:

1. Choose the right sealer

Before you start sealing your granite worktop, you need to choose the right sealer for you, and since there are so many on the market, choosing the right one can be tough. First, determine what kind of granite you have, as more porous granite typically requires a different sealer than denser varieties. Typically, the lighter your granite is, the more porous it is. 

Then, you can choose between either a penetrating sealer or using a topical sealer. Penetrating sealers are suitable for most types of granite, while topical sealers are used for delicate or highly porous granite. If the worktop is in a high-traffic area, like the kitchen, a penetrating sealer is the best option. 

Finally, consider what else you need from your sealer, such as UV protection if your worktop is exposed to sunlight, to choose the right one.

2. Gather your materials 

Once you have your sealer, get together the following materials to start the process:

• Microfibre cloths
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Spray bottle 
• Granite sealer 
• Soft rags
• Dish soap
• Rubber gloves

3. Clean the surface 

Once you have all your materials, you can start cleaning the countertop with a clean microfiber cloth to get rid of any dust. Then, mix a small portion of dishwashing soap, isopropyl alcohol, and water in the spray bottle. Spray the worktops and wipe it with another cloth. Wait until the surface is dry to start the next step. 

4. Apply the granite sealer 

Every granite sealer has its own instructions, so ensure you read them before applying the sealant to your worktop. Typically, you just need to apply the sealer evenly across the surface using a clean, dry cloth. 

Then, allow it to sit on the worktop for the time recommended by the manufacturer, which is usually about 30 minutes, ensuring the granite absorbs the sealer. Pay attention to the time because if you let the sealer sit for too long, it can discolour the granite.

5. Buff and wipe 

After the specified waiting period, use a soft microfiber cloth, buff the surface and get rid of any excess sealer that wasn’t absorbed. Ensure you wipe in a consistent motion to prevent a hazy or streaky finish.

6. Let it cure

Once you’ve wiped off the excess sealer, wait the recommended time (typically 24 hours) to let the absorbed sealer cure. Then, your worktop is ready to use.

Sealing Granite Worktops FAQ

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions you may have about sealing granite worktops:

How do you maintain granite worktops?

If you want to maintain your newly-sealed granite worktop, here are some tips to consider:

• Clean your granite counterop daily with dish detergent, warm water, and a wet rag. 
• Avoid using harsh chemicals on the granite so you don’t wear out the sealer.
• Re-seal your worktops periodically. 
• Use coasters, trivets, and cutting boards when preparing food to avoid potential damage from hot or sharp dishes and cutlery. 
• Deep clean your worktop once or twice a month with a professional granite cleaner.
• Wipe spills promptly so they don’t leave a stain. 

How often should you seal a granite worktop?

You should reseal your granite worktop every 12 to 18 months, but this can vary depending on the type of granite you have and how often you use it. If you aren’t sure whether your granite is ready to be resealed, perform the water test on the worktop. 

To do this, you just pour a handful of water on the worktop and start a timer. Wait half an hour or until the surface has absorbed the water. If the granite didn’t absorb the water, you can wait a few months to reseal it. 

Does all granite need to be sealed?

Not all granite needs to be sealed, so ensure you check with your supplier first, as sealing a granite worktop unnecessarily can create build-up and make the surface dull. Sometimes, dark granite that’s made of true volcanic rock doesn’t need to be sealed as it’s non-porous, however always check with your stone supplier.

Should I hire a professional to seal my granite worktop?

Sealing your granite stone is very easy, especially if you follow the steps outlined in this article, so no need to hire a professional. 

What part of my granite worktop do I need to seal?

Generally, people seal their entire worktop at once, but when it comes to resealing, you may only need to touch up the areas you use the most or that get wet often, such as around the sink. Perform the water test on different parts of the worktop to determine which areas to reseal. 

Sealing Granite Worktops Conclusion

Now that you know how easy the process of sealing granite worktops is, you will have the confidence to seal them yourself and ensure your stone is keep in its best condition.

Granite is highly durable, especially when you seal it properly, so it is a great option for a kitchen or bathroom countertop.  If you are looking for a new or a replacement surface, Paramount Stone Specialists can help! 

Our expert team is ready to install a stunning granite worktop that meets your exact needs. Call us at 01482 585600 or e-mail us at info@paramountstone.co.uk for more information or to request a free quote.