How Often Should You Be Sealing Your Granite?
Granite is one of the most popular types of natural stone in homes throughout South Florida. Granite is a beautiful and durable investment for kitchen and bathroom countertops, backsplashes, and flooring. This natural stone also provides versatility with a range of color options to choose from, including black, white, gray, and pink. So how often should you be sealing your granite?
Granite is one of the most durable natural stone surfaces available and possesses heat-resistant qualities. Regular cleaning and granite sealing practices are critical for ensuring that granite surfaces continue to shine for many years to come.
Does Granite Need to Be Sealed?
Sealing is a necessary practice for maintaining all-natural stone surfaces. This is especially true for granite due to its highly porous nature of the stone.
The porosity of granite, while contributing to its unique patterns and depth, also makes it susceptible to absorbing liquids. This absorption can lead to stains, damage, and a diminished aesthetic over time. Sealing granite surfaces acts as a protective barrier, preventing liquids from penetrating and ensuring the stone remains resistant to stains and bacterial growth. This protective measure not only maintains the stone’s pristine appearance but also enhances its durability against everyday wear and tear.Â
Granite Test
You can test your granite’s sealant quality by applying a drop of water to the surface and letting it sit. Only use a small drop to prevent excess staining.
Leave the water droplet to sit for half an hour before returning. If the droplet has been absorbed into the stone, it is time to have your granite resealed.
What Happens to Unsealed Granite?
Inadequate or poorly sealed granite is highly vulnerable to damage due to its porous nature, leading to rapid liquid absorption. This susceptibility can cause a myriad of issues, not only compromising the stone’s aesthetic appeal but also its structural integrity.
Consequences of Inadequate Granite Sealing Include:
- Water Stains
- Food/Beverage Stains
- Etching
- Deterioration (Pits, Cracks, Other Signs of Erosion)
Even sealed granite is at risk of these damages if it is not properly maintained. Click here to read more about safe cleaning and maintenance of natural stone surfaces.
Signs It’s Time to Reseal
Granite surfaces are generally sealed and require little additional protection upon their initial installation. However, there is no harm in a professional application of an additional layer of sealant to protect the stone after installation.
Regular use takes a toll on even the strongest stone surfaces. Granite in high-use areas such as the kitchen and bathroom needs regular sealing to protect them from the elements. Granite surfaces in high-traffic households benefit greatly from an additional layer of sealing.
Several instances may occur that signal that it may be time to reseal granite surfaces.
1.) Water Stains
Signs of water or other liquids seeping into the stone is an immediate sign that it is time to reseal.
2.) Etching
Acidic substances can etch the surface of granite, leaving scratches and marks that are difficult to remove. If you observe etching, this is a signal that it is time to reseal.
3.) Dark Spots
Dark spots or discoloration that cause a dirty appearance on the granite surface is a sign that maintenance is needed.
4.) Cloudy Appearance
Granite that appears cloudy may signify improper cleaning and/or maintenance. If your granite appears cloudy it may be time to invest in professional stone cleaning and sealing services.
5.) Fractures
Deeper damages, including chips, cracks, or pits on a granite surface may require repairs before resealing. Never attempt to repair natural stone on your own. This is a costly mistake that leads to further damages and extensive costs.
6.) Dull Appearance
Over time natural stone surfaces lose their shine without regular sealant. It may be time to reseal these surfaces if areas that were once shiny are now dull.
Prevent Damages with Regular Cleaning
Many telltale signs, such as etching marks, pits, and overall deterioration, often suggest that your granite’s sealing may be overdue. These issues, while seemingly minor at first, can lead to more significant and costly damages over time.
The most effective strategy to protect your granite is a combination of regular cleaning and timely sealing. Regular cleaning with appropriate products helps maintain the granite’s surface integrity, preventing the buildup of substances that can harm the stone. It’s important to use cleaners specifically designed for granite, as harsh chemicals can damage the sealant and the stone itself.
Contact a stone expert to evaluate the condition of your granite or to schedule a sealing if you notice any issues.
How Often Do You Need to Seal Granite?
Stone experts recommend that granite surfaces be professionally sealed on an annual basis. However, this is just a general guideline, and the frequency of sealing needs depends on several factors, including the age, quality, and maintenance history of the stone.
Other Granite Sealing Precautions
- Granite responds best if the same sealant is used during each application. Choose a trusted and reliable company to apply a high-quality sealant to your granite surfaces.
- Regular cleaning is the key to protecting granite surfaces in-between sealings.
- Perform a basic evaluation of the condition of your granite surface before resealing. Contact a stone professional if you notice any cracks, chips, etching, or other damages that will worsen with time.
There is no set schedule for granite sealing. Homeowners should have these surfaces sealed as needed depending on the unique needs of their granite surfaces.
How Much Does Granite Sealing Cost?
Many homeowners might consider the do-it-yourself route when it comes to resealing granite surfaces, often using store-bought sealants. While this DIY approach is commendable and can be seen as a cost-saving measure, it’s important to weigh its effectiveness against professional options. DIY sealants, though readily available and easy to apply, often fall short in terms of durability and protection when compared to professional-grade products
The superiority of professional granite sealing lies in the quality of the sealants used, as well as the expertise brought to the application process. Professional sealants are formulated to provide longer-lasting protection, preserving the beauty and integrity of granite surfaces for a significantly extended period compared to over-the-counter alternatives. This not only ensures that your countertops remain in pristine condition but also can be more cost-effective in the long run due to less frequent applications.
However, the cost of having your granite surfaces professionally sealed can vary. This variation is dependent on several factors such as the size, condition of the surfaces, and the quality of services offered by the sealing professional. On average, homeowners may find that the cost of professional sealing services is a worthwhile investment for the extended lifespan and enhanced appearance it guarantees for their granite surfaces.
Your Go-To for Granite Care in South Florida
Just Call Classic is South Florida’s choice for granite natural stone repair, care, and maintenance. Just Call Classic has been family-owned and operated since 1997 and is experienced in polishing, restoration, repair, and maintenance of a wide range of stone surfaces.
Contact Just Call Classic today to speak with a team of knowledgeable stone experts.
