Project costs may also increase if your state requires a sales tax on materials and if permits or inspections are required to complete the work. Use our free lead generator to find reputable contractors in your area for all kitchen maintenance and remodeling projects. Allow the sealer to absorb into the stone for as long as the product instructions require (usually about 20 minutes for one coat). The other role that the granite sealers serve is to preserve the original aesthetic of the granite surface. If the product you use requires one coat, allow it cure, which can take between two and 48 hours. See typical tasks and time to seal granite, along with per unit costs and material requirements. However, water, acidic substances, and even general use can wear away the seal, and it will need to be reapplied periodically. In an area usually covered by a small appliance, test the sealant to ensure it won’t affect the finish. One of the most common questions we hear is whether natural stone countertops need to be sealed. Ingredients can be flammable and noxious, so ventilation is always required when using these products. Clean the countertop 24 hours before sealing, making sure to avoid potentially damaging vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda, bleach, or harsh commercial cleansers. Our impregnating sealer is a solvent based deep penetrating sealer with a molecular structure designed to seal natural stone surfaces and protect against water and oil based stains. Perform the water drops test listed above or place a wet paper towel on the granite and check back in 10 minutes. If professionals are overseen by a general contractor, homeowners should expect to add 15 to 25% extra to arrive at a final estimation of the cost. You can seal your granite on your own, but the results will not be permanent. The frequency of sealing will vary depending on your stone. Hiring an experienced professional ensures a high-quality seal and long-lasting use. Of course, some granites do not need a granite sealer since they are naturally highly stain-resistant. Strive to wipe up spills immediately and then dry the countertop to keep your granite looking great. Unlike tile countertops, which benefit from acid-based cleaners, stone requires a neutral (non-acidic) cleaner to remove dirt and grime. Once the countertop has fully cured, put your kitchen back in order. The cost for penetrating products is typically higher than for coated sealants. For this reason, they make a good choice for outdoor granite countertops. By Torin Dixon January 6, 2015 Off Read More The Most Important Thing for New Granite Countertops – PROTECTION! Most experts recommend professional cleaning and sealing of granite every one to two years. Wait the manufacturer’s recommended time for the product to absorb into the countertop. If so, proceed with these instructions for how to seal a granite countertop. To apply liquid sealer to countertops, use a brush or a lint-free cloth. Clean countertop surfaces with a neutral stone cleaner. Should our instructions vary from the label, defer to the manufacturer. Clean the granite countertop with acetone or a quality granite cleaner to remove any debris or residues on the surface. Wait 24 hours before proceeding: The space occupied by the cleaning agent is the same space that the sealant will penetrate, so you must ensure that the cleaning liquid has fully evaporated. Everything was handled professionally and turnaround time from selection to installation was shorter than expected. Copyright © ImproveNetAll Rights Reserved. How to Professionally Seal Granite Countertops Protecting Stone Sealing Granite StoneCare Questions & Answers. Remove stains and water spots. Granite is a porous surface. Granite sealer, the miracle in a bottle, became what I consider one of the most over-promoted, overrated, and over-applied products in history. Fluorocarbon alphatic resin is more expensive than lesser quality sealers, but you get what you pay for. Consult a trusted countertop company for guidance on how often to seal your countertops. After the absorption period has passed, wipe any extra sealant off with a clean, soft, dry rag, rubbing in a circular motion. Ventilate the kitchen area well, and use gloves and a face mask for personal protection. Water-based sealants are environmentally friendly, while solvent-based sealants may go deeper into the stone—though this is arguably only important on polished granite. Get multiple quotes for any home improvement project, See pro's rating, reviews, projects and more. For best results, choose an impregnating stone sealer. It is currently the most advanced technology for sealing natural stone. Because they work below the surface of the granite, penetrating sealers are not affected by UV rays. Ahead, you’ll find general guidance for how to seal a granite countertop with either variety, but specific directions vary according to brand and active ingredients. Safe on food prep surfaces Unlike silicon-based sealers, these will not evaporate or go through any type of natural degradation. Granite is among the most resistant stones, but it can become chipped, etched, and cracked, due to heavy foot traffic, water exposure, and incorrect cleaning methods. What’s more, fluorocarbon aliphatic resins repel oil as well as water, so your granite won’t be ruined by a salad dressing mishap. Granite vs. Quartz, 8 Countertops You'd Never Believe Were Handmade, Counter Intelligence: Choosing the Right Countertop. If the test was successful, apply the sealant over the entire counter, beginning at one end and working your way to the other. Most experts recommend professional cleaning and sealing of granite every one to two years. It’s a good idea to do it every 12 months, but fortunately, it’s so quick and simple that you can do it in about 10 minutes or less. It’s crucial to follow label instructions on the sealant you buy in addition to these handy guidelines for the best results. Although granite looks and feels hard, it is a natural stone with differing levels of porosity, depending on the type. If the sealant test area looks great, proceed to Step 7. See professionally prepared estimates for granite sealing work. The labor involved includes project planning, materials acquisition, setup, countertop preparation, sealing and project cleanup. The best granite sealer is fluorocarbon alphatic resin sealer. Most types of granite require sealing. If it’s raining, do not open windows that could allow rain to hit the countertop; instead, open windows in other areas of the room or in adjacent rooms. Improper cleaning, neglected spills, and other issues of everyday use could easily mar the surface otherwise. If the water beads up, the seal … Due to dangerous ingredients in penetrating sealers, professional application with these products is highly recommended. You agree that BobVila.com may process your data in the manner described by our Privacy Policy. This should be applied after approximately 15 minutes, when the first coat is not quite dry. Call us for all of your granite needs. Check out the guide at the bottom of this article for how to seal granite, or follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply a second coat of sealer if needed. Somewhere inconspicuous, like in a corner of the counter, put a few drops of water on top, and a few inches away, put a few drops of oil. As a general rule of thumb, granite should be professionally sealed every one to two years. Keeping granite countertops in tip-top condition requires regular maintenance like cleaning and sealing. Before starting the sealing process, it is a good idea to determine whether a granite countertop has been sealed or whether it is a type of granite that doesn't require sealing. As a result the time and frequency of cleaning the surface is reduced. Professional Sealing for Natural Stone Surfaces; View Our Countertops. Copyright © 2020 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. Allow the sealer to cure for 24 to 48 hours before using or washing the countertop. Stone Doctors, Inc. is a professional restoration company that specializes in services ranging from performing routine polishing and sealing your marble, granite and ceramic floors, walls and countertops to complete restoration projects including grinding, honing and polishing. These granite sealers give maximum protection to the natural luster of … The sealer creates a protective barrier which assists in protecting the granite, helping to prevent the deterioration caused by staining and etching from contaminants including oils, grease and grime. Don’t let it sit longer than recommended, because that could discolor the stone. They do not change the color of the granite and will be invisible when dry. Here are the steps to giving your granite countertop a professional, protective, sealed surface. But, sealer wears off over time, so it’s important to make sealing your granite countertops a part of your regular maintenance. It creates a barrier to protect all natural stone against staining, etching and soil buildup. POLISHING (TRAVERTINE POLISHING, MARBLE POLISHING, CRYSTALIZING POLISH AND GRANITE POLISHING) Follow these step-by-step directions from a 35 year stone industry veteran. Sealers at home improvement stores cost around $15. Popular Kitchen Cabinet Paint Colors In 2020, Improving Your Kitchen Cabinets with Paint, Clean spills immediately to prevent staining, Place mats, pot holders or trivets under hot cookware, Use mats or potholders under dishes or cookware that might scratch the surface of the countertop, Don't use scouring brushes or pads when cleaning, Don't use abrasive cleaners like scouring powders, Apply a paste of baking soda and water to stains, cover with plastic wrap, let sit overnight and wipe with a soft, wet cloth. Homeowners who wish to hire a licensed, insured and dependable professional should expect prices on the higher end of the spectrum. As always, if you need help with your project, ImproveNet can connect you with up to four granite sealing contractors. If it has discolored, wipe up any remaining sealant with a clean rag. Homeowners should purchase a penetrating sealer and follow these steps to keep countertops in prime condition. A proper granite … If you’re interested in permanently sealing your granite, contact your local Seal Team One. Get fair costs for your SPECIFIC project requirements. Granite Gold Sealer Spray Water-Based Sealing to Preserve and Protect Granite, Marble, Travertine, Natural Stone Countertops - Made in the USA, 24 Ounce 4.5 out of 5 stars1,757 $19.97$19.97$24.99$24.99 Get it as soon as Fri, Nov 6 Step one: Use decorator’s tape to divide your test granite in half, and seal one half using the brand of sealant you plan to use on your countertop. After the required drying time, wipe up any remaining sealer with a clean rag. Each offer differing advantages and disadvantages when it comes to protecting granite counters. Because of the high level of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in some solvent-based penetrating sealers, use is restricted in some states. Because coated sealant sits atop the granite's surface, it is vulnerable to scratches and scuffs and may need regular honing, buffing or re-application. Put on rubber gloves and grab the rags. Some products require a second coat, so follow instructions to do so. Type in your zip code and HomeAdvisor will find granite restoration companies in your area. The sealant is used by pros and proven to keep out moisture, so the risk of mold and bacteria is eliminated. However, many dark granite counters will require less attention than light colors or those approaching white. Find licensed kitchen and bathroom specialists in your home and receive free, no-commitment estimates for your project. Offer lippage services to smooth uneven floors. Sealing helps maintain the condition of granite by keeping messes and spills out. Poor quality coating products can produce a plastic appearance when layers build up, or they can turn yellow if exposed to sunlight. The top-rated product in this class is Tenax Hydrex Impregnating Stone Sealer. Apply a small amount per manufacturer’s directions, by spraying or pouring onto a cloth and then rubbing it evenly over the test area. Keep the spray bottle of cleaner you created around for periodic use every month or two. Open nearby windows and doors for ventilation. Once you’ve acquired a new sealant, clean the counter and test the new sealant. To use, just spray and wipe. The cost to Seal Granite starts at $0.75 - $1.56 per square foot, but can vary significantly with site conditions and options. The proper penetrating (or impregnating) sealer will soak into the granite, filling the porous gaps, to keep damage at bay. If the granite absorbs the water, then it's time to seal or reseal. The chart below shows average costs homeowners should budget for when sealing 250 square feet of countertop space. 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