Granite countertops are stunning, durable, and easy to clean. Because they are porous and can absorb water, they can etch after regular wear and tear. Thankfully, permanent damage can be prevented by sealing them. Sealing granite surfaces when not necessary allows the protective layer to provide a glazed look. Keep reading to know how to seal your Granite au Sommet countertops to ensure they retain their perfect shape.
Is Re-sealing a Must for All Granite Countertops?
Some granite countertops do not need to be sealed. Sometimes, granite is available already sealed by the manufacturer. Some manufacturers use a lifetime sealer. As granite contains different natural stone materials, it can be prone to scratches and stains. Sealing such surfaces is important to protect them from getting permanent damage and make sure they get a lasting appearance.
While water may not stain your countertops, other liquids like red wine or juice can leave spots on countertop surfaces. Also, you should be careful about placing oily foods on the counters because they could create unpleasant stains if your countertops are not properly sealed. To know if you have to seal your countertops, use this guide:
How to Know If You Need to Seal Your Granite Countertops
Use this guide to determine if your countertops need to be sealed:
- Ensure your countertops are made of granite. If you have just moved into a new home, you probably have no idea whether or not you have granite countertops. Granite countertops can look like marble or quartzite; however, they have specific characteristics.
Marble must be sealed at least once every year to prevent damage that acidic liquids and heat can cause them. However, granite countertops may need to be treated.
- Check out the porosity and color of the granite countertops you have. Granite absorbs liquid and air due to its small gaps. As it takes in water, stains and other damage can develop. Also, darker granite can resist liquid staining but lighter granite might require sealing to protect the surfaces from acidic materials or deep red wine that can damage the material.
- Consult with the manufacturer. Granite can be available sealed when during the first installation. Sometimes, they have a lifetime seal on them while being produced to improve their durability. If such a seal is on your countertops, you do not have to reapply a sealant in the future. Rather, your granite countertops may resist etching and staining forever. But you should get in touch with the manufacturer to know how exactly to care for your countertops.
