Your new granite countertops look fantastic! You put in the time to pick the perfect ones and spent good money on a high-quality product. To keep them looking great. It’s important to take care of them the right way. The first step? Use a good sealant to protect your investment.
Why do you need to seal your granite countertops?
Granite is a stone, and although every piece is unique, all of them are porous. Some types absorb moisture more readily than others and may not need to be sealed as often. But all of your granite countertops will need a layer of sealant to protect the stone from spills and stains.
You chose granite because of the look, the durability, and the strength of the material. These features make it worth the time and attention of proper maintenance so it will keep these basic qualities of its nature for years to come. Here are reasons why sealing your granite countertops helps care for them.
What are the Reasons for Sealing My Granite Countertops?
Your best friend comes over for dinner one Friday night and as you are pouring red wine into a glass, some spills on your beautiful granite countertop. A simple swipe with a dishcloth brings it right off the surface because you had it properly sealed upon installation. The next morning, your toddler leaves raspberries on the counter that could have left an extremely noticeable stain had you not invested in a quality sealant.
Another reason to seal your granite is the added protection it gives the top layer of the stone. This makes it less likely to be scratched and will help it retain its aesthetic quality longer. You will not have to worry when a metal lid slips out of your hand and hits your countertop because the stone is well protected by the sealant.
What If I Don’t Seal My Granite Countertops?
Granite countertops that are not sealed will be difficult to keep clean because crumbs and other food will gather in cracks and crevasses. Any liquids spilled may cause stains and any harsh abrasions may cause scratches.
The stone is durable and will provide good space for you and your family to use but it will not look as nice with stains on it and it will not be as sanitary with bacteria in the pores.
The type of granite and the quality of the sealant determines how often you will need to reseal your countertops. Some will need it as soon as six months down the line, and some will not need it for many years. Conducting periodic water tests on a small part of your granite will show you the effectiveness of your seal.