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Periodically applying granite sealer is important for protecting your granite
countertops. If a granite countertop is left unsealed, water or oil can become
absorbed into the granite and form permanent stains. There are two basic types
of granite sealers on the market, penetrating sealers and topical sealers.
Penetrating granite sealers, also known as impregnable sealers, penetrate deep
down into the granite stone, whereas topical granite sealers simply provide a
protective coating over the surface of the granite countertop.
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Typically penetrating granite sealers need to be applied less frequently than topical
sealers, due to the fact that topical sealers wear away fairly easy. Also, if
applying a penetrating granite sealer keep in mind that they are made from
different types of resins. Some resins are better at protecting against water
while others do a better job protecting against oil. Make sure to purchase a
penetrating granite sealer that protects against both water and oil stains.
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Topical granite sealers are typically polyurethane or acrylic based. They create a thin
film on top of the granite surface and protect against both water and oil
spills. There are two main types of topical sealers, strippable and permanent.
The strippable type is the preferred topical sealer as it is easily removable
from the granite countertop.Test Granite Countertops first
before Applying Granite Sealer
You should only apply a granite sealer if the granite countertops actually
need it.
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To test if your countertops are in need of sealing, apply a few dime-size
dabs of water, oil and lemon juice to the surface of the countertops, preferably
in an out of the way location. Let the test dabs sit for a few minutes and then
wipe them away. If staining occurred then you need to apply a granite sealer. If
you did not observe any staining, apply another set of dabs and let them sit for
about 15 to 20 minutes. Again, wipe away the test dabs and see if any staining
occurred. If still no staining was observed, then your granite countertops do
not require sealing.
How to Apply Granite Sealers
Sealing granite countertops is easy to do, although make sure to thoroughly
read the instructions on the granite sealer before applying it. Also, it is
important that the countertops are completely free of dust, dirt, grime and
liquids, so make sure to clean and dry them thoroughly before applying the
granite sealer.
When applying granite sealers it is best to apply two coats. However it is
important to wait the granite sealer manufacturer’s recommended time interval in
between coats to make sure the sealer binds properly.
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Photo by Mark Donovan |
Apply granite sealer to the countertops using a clean rag or brush. It is best
to apply granite sealers in small sections at a time, e.g. 6 to 8 square feet
areas. Make sure to not miss near the corners and backsplashes when applying the
sealer.
After applying the first coat of granite sealer let it set in for a few minutes.
Then apply and rub in a little more of the sealer into the countertop using a
clean rag. Continue in this manner to seal the entire countertop. Wait a couple
of hours and then repeat the process. In addition, if applying a penetrating
granite sealer, you may want to follow up later on with a topical granite sealer
to protect the countertops surface.
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Related Information
Granite Sealers from Amazon.com
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