QUESTION

Sealing Stone Counter Tops - Can you help me to better understand why a coating is required on granite counter tops? Why a penetrating type of sealer? How long will the sealer last?

ANSWER

ANSWER - It is normally recommended to seal natural stone counter tops because it comes into contact with various chemicals and foods that can lead to staining. Particularly with more porous stones and for porous grout joints. It is normally recommended to use a penetrating sealer that penetrates into the stone and grout and doesn't sit on top of the stone. After the sealer is applied all excess is removed with a dry lint-free cloth while it is still damp. Most penetrating sealers are breathable allowing the stone to breath and not trapping moisture within it. The better quality sealers last longer, but the life of the sealer depends on the type of wear-and-tear it is subjected to. A simple test to determine when to re-seal is if water no longer beads-up, like water on a car after being waxed, then it needs to be sealed again. For specific information go to the manufacturers of these sealers listed in the resource section of this website under. Good Luck!

 
ANSWER - It is normally recommended to seal natural stone counter tops because it comes into contact with various chemicals and foods that can lead to staining. Particularly with more porous stones and for porous grout joints. It is normally recommended to use a penetrating sealer that penetrates into the stone and grout and doesn't sit on top of the stone. After the sealer is applied all excess is removed with a dry lint-free cloth while it is still damp. Most penetrating sealers are breathable allowing the stone to breath and not trapping moisture within it. The better quality sealers last longer, but the life of the sealer depends on the type of wear-and-tear it is subjected to. A simple test to determine when to re-seal is if water no longer beads-up, like water on a car after being waxed, then it needs to be sealed again. For specific information go to the manufacturers of these sealers listed in the resource section of this website under. Good Luck!