What Sealing Options Can You Choose for Granite Counters?

You wouldn’t use raw rocks in your kitchen! Granite counters are fabricated from natural stone, so they need  to be covered with a sealer for household use. Here’s some info that will help you choose the right sealer to protect your countertops from damage while maintaining the stone’s natural pattern and shine.

• How Sealers Work
• Natural stone is durable, but it isn’t completely impervious. Heat, pressure, and abrasive substances can wear down your countertops.
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• The best way to protect your granite is to seal it. Usually, this means some type of thermoplastic resin to coat the surface.
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• The best sealers repel both liquids and oils. Some also protect against heat and scratches.
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• Sealers are necessary to extend the life of your granite, but even the strongest ones won’t last forever. Counters that see a lot of traffic should be resealed every year, while lesser-used ones may only need a new coat every few years.

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• Penetrating Sealers
• These are the preferred sealer for granite countertops. Also called impregnating sealers, they work by sinking into the stone’s porous surface lining the internal structure to keep it safe from damage.
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• Penetrating sealers are better because they allow the granite to breathe. They maintain the stone’s antibacterial properties and the natural look while still protecting your counter from stains and spills. Penetrating sealers don’t wear down like others, so they often only need to be reapplied on a semi-yearly basis. You can also get specific penetrating sealers if you have a particular concern; like oil-repellent sealers that keep oil from seeping into the granite’s pores.
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• The only downside is that penetrating sealers don’t prevent scuffs or scratches. Cleaning your counter with lemon juice or vinegar is guaranteed to cause etching on the granite. These can easily be polished away but are still a nuisance.

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• Topical Sealers
• This is a traditional type of resin sealer that leaves a glossy coating. Topical sealers can be used on many different types of counters, but they’re not usually recommended for granite.
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• The problem is that they trap moisture and do not allow the granite to breathe. Over time, this can give your counters a foggy appearance and may even allow bacteria to grow. If you decide to use a topical sealer, make sure it’s been designed for a granite countertop. Only apply the resin to a perfectly dry surface
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• Topical sealers do have one advantage over penetrating sealers: they protect the granite from scratches and abrasions. A thick layer of resin acts as a buffer over the stone.  The granite can still be scratched, but it requires more force.
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• Whether or not you use a T a penetrative or topical sealer really depends on your needs. Penetrative sealers are much better for the granite, but a topical sealer may be better if your kitchen sees a high amount of traffic. Ask your fabrication specialist for a recommendation when you purchase. These professionals know their products, and they’ll know how to protect your countertops.