Similar to other types of natural stone such as marble, slate, and limestone, granite is a construction material that requires frequent sealing. The first rule of keeping granite slabs and tiles looking like they did upon installation is to apply a fresh coat of sealant as soon as they need it, which is something you can determine on your own with a simple test. Aside from letting you know if the time has come to reseal your granite surfaces, the water test described belowcan also help you understand the porosity and absorbance factor of natural stone.
The Granite Seal Water Test
To determine whether your granite needs to be sealed immediately, pour a small amount of water, enough to form a puddle about 3 inches in diameter, on various sections of thegranite’s surface. Once the puddles form, you’ll need to check for how quickly it absorbs through the pores of the surface. If you have a strong seal, the water will bead on top of the stone. If you notice within 30 minutes that a dark mark or ring has started to form, this meansthe seal has been penetrated and you should apply a fresh coat of granite sealer as soon as possible. Although the water will eventually evaporate, make sure to dry all spots once the test is complete.
Porosity, Absorbance, and Origin
There are other factors to consider when conducting the water test—one of them is the finish and the other is the origin. Highly polished granite tends to be less absorbent when compared to a brushed or sandblasted finish that’s textured. Not all granite is the same. Lighter-colored granite tends to be more porous, while darker colors are less absorbent.
How to Seal Granite
With professional granite installations, a fresh coat of sealer is often applied as the last step. However, if you purchase a pre-fabricated counter with a granite top, you shouldn’t necessarily assume it’s been sealed. A penetrating sealer such as Granite Gold Sealer®, which comes in a spray bottle, allows you to easily seal tiles and slabs. The best way to apply this sealant is to work in three-foot sections and wipe the sealer into the surface with a lint-free cloth. Don’t allow the sealer to dry, as it will cause hazing. If the results of the water test call for immediate sealing, you may want to apply a 2-3 coats and finish the process with polishing, but you should wait 24 hours before applying granite polish. Busy homeowners may want to try the convenience of Granite Gold Sealer Wipes®.
For additional tips on sealing countertops made of granite, marble, slate, and other types of natural stone, reach out to the Stone Care Experts at Granite Gold®. Call one of our knowledgeable representatives today at 1-800-475-STONE (7866), and follow us on Instagram for even more tips on caring for the natural stone in your home.
