How Do You Seal Granite Or Marble Countertops?
Whether you have granite or marble countertops, sealing them can protect them from stains and dirt. However, before you do anything, it is important to test to make sure you have the right sealer for the surface. In some cases, you may need to apply more than one coat.
(Searching in Google “resurfacing the bathtub“? Contact us today!)
The first step is to clean the countertop thoroughly. This can be done with a pH-neutral cleaner. The countertop should be completely dry before you apply the sealer. Then, you need to apply the sealer using a brush. If you use a spray bottle, you may not get an even coat. You should also read the instructions on the product to make sure you are using the right one for the surface.
Next, apply the sealer to the countertop in small areas. It is best to use a microfiber cloth. This will not leave fiber on the surface and will remove debris without damaging the stone. If you don’t have a microfiber cloth, you can use a pH-neutral cleaner and water. After the sealer has dried, wipe the surface thoroughly with a clean cloth.
Depending on the type of stone you have, you may need to apply more than one coating of sealer. Some sealers have a curing period, so you may need to wait a few days between coats. Some sealers are impregnating, meaning they fill in the pores of the marble or granite, making the stone more resistant to stains. Similarly, some sealers have a hydrophobic property, which means they repel oil-based products. However, they can also etch the surface, so you should always test them before using them.
Once you have applied the sealer, you need to wait at least 24 hours before wiping the surface down. You can remove the sealer with a damp rag, but it is best to wipe down the surface with a clean, dry rag.
Before sealing your countertop, test it for mineral oil. If there is mineral oil present, you need to wipe it off immediately with a dry cloth. If the mineral oil has disappeared, you may not need to seal the countertop. But if the mineral oil remains, you should seal the countertop.
To seal marble, you will need to use a sealer that is designed for marble. The sealer should be acid-resistant and hydrophobic. Some of the more popular sealers are linseed oil, which is non-toxic and food-safe. However, linseed oil can make the countertop look yellow, so it is important to use a sealer that is oleophobic.
For granite, you will need a sealer with fluorocarbon aliphatic resin. These sealers are resistant to water and oil, and they provide long-lasting protection. However, they do not block all stains. If you have granite that is polished or softer, you may need to apply sealer more often than others.
The time required for sealing the countertop can vary between manufacturers. Some say it should be done every six months, while others say it should be done every year.