Granite countertops, particularly dark granites, are a popular choice for many homeowners. They are known for being strong and having a classic look that never goes out of style. Each piece of granites is unique, with its own colors and patterns, which means no two countertops are exactly the same. While sealing granite countertops, especially dark granites, is a tough material, it does need some attention to keep it looking its best, including the occasional application of topical polishes.
This blog will provide you with a detailed look at how to care for your granites countertops, from the importance of a good seal to what to do about everyday spills and minor damage caused by hot pans, including professional stone care tips. If you're in the Shrewsbury, MA area and are thinking about new countertops, you might want to check out the selection at a local specialist like Shrewsbury Marble and Granite.
To understand how to care for light granites and granite, it helps to know a little bit about what it is. Granites is a natural stone that is formed from cooled magma. It's made up of several different minerals, with the main ones being quartz, feldspar, and mica. Regular cleaning is essential for maintaining its appearance.
The way these minerals are mixed together is what gives each slab of granites its unique look. It also means that all granites is a little bit porous. This is an important thing to keep in mind when it comes to granite countertop care.
Because black granites and other granites is porous, it can soak up liquids. If you spill something on an unsealed countertop, it can sink into the stone and cause a stain. This is why sealing granite countertops is such a crucial step in protecting them and maintaining the luster of your granites. A good sealant will fill in the tiny pores in the granites and create a barrier that helps to keep liquids out.
There's a simple test you can do to see if your sealing granite countertops need a fresh coat of sealant.
Sealing Granite Countertops is a job that most homeowners can handle. Here's a simple guide to get you started:
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Clean the Surface | Before you do anything else, you need to make sure your countertops are completely clean. Use a pH-neutral cleaner or specific glass cleaners to get rid of any dirt or grease. Consider what type of sealer you will use for the sealing process as well. |
| 2. Let It Dry | The granite needs to be completely dry before you apply the sealant. It's a good idea to wait at least a few hours, or even a full day, to be sure. Using hot water during the cleaning process can also help ensure the variety of granites you choose dries effectively, which can affect the drying process and overall maintenance. |
| 3. Apply the Sealant | Let the sealant sit on the countertop for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer. This is usually around 15 to 20 minutes. Taking this careful approach is the first step in ensuring lasting protection for your countertop, especially if it has a plywood backing for added support. |
| 4. Let it Soak In | Let the sealant sit on the countertop for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer. This is usually around 15 to 20 minutes. This step is important in helping protect your countertop against stains from spills, especially those from acidic liquids like tomato sauce. |
| 5. Wipe Off the Extra | Use another clean, dry cloth to wipe off any extra sealant that hasn't soaked into the stone. |
| 6. Let it Cure | The sealant will need some time to cure completely. This usually takes between 24 and 48 hours. During this time, it’s best to avoid using your countertops as you normally would. |
Once your countertops are sealed, a little bit of regular granite countertop maintenance is all you need to keep them in good shape.
Even if you're careful, you might run into some issues with your countertops from time to time. Here's how to handle a few of the most common ones.
| Type of Stain | How to Remove It |
|---|---|
| Oil-Based Stains | Mix baking soda and acetone to make a thick paste. Spread it on the stain on your kitchen countertops, and granite flooring, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it sit for 24 hours. |
| Organic Stains (from coffee, tea, etc.) | A mixture of 12% hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of ammonia can work well. |
| Water Stains | If you have hard water stains, you can try gently buffing them out with a very fine #0000 steel wool. |
If you have a small chip in your countertop, a skilled professional may be able to fix it yourself with a granite repair kit. These kits come with a filler that you can match to the color of your stone.
For very light scratches, polishing granite countertops with a granites polish can sometimes be enough to make them less noticeable. In rare cases, for deeper scratches, it's a good idea to call a professional who specializes in granite restoration. When you need to know how to fix chipped granite or deep scratches, a professional will have the right tools and knowledge to do the job right. If you have a stain that you just can't get out, a professional can help you remove stains from granite without damaging the stone.
Yes, sealing granite countertops is essential to protect them from stains, moisture, and bacteria. While some granites are naturally more resistant, applying a sealant enhances durability and longevity. Regular sealing every 1-3 years keeps your countertops looking pristine and maintains their beauty over time.
Granite countertops will be a glorious addition to any home. With a little bit of proper care, you can keep them looking beautiful for many years. From the simple but important step of sealing granite countertops to knowing how to handle everyday spills and minor repairs, you have the power to protect your investment. So if you ever need help or are in the market for new countertops, local experts like Shrewsbury Marble and Granite can work as a great resource.