Unsealed Granite: What Happens When You Don't Seal it?

When it comes to installing beautiful and durable countertops in your home, granite is a popular choice. Here is a detail guide to what happens when you don’t seal granite countertops and why and How to seal Granite.

This Post is About Unsealed Granite.

Unsealed Granite

Unsealed Granite : Why Sealing Granite Countertops Matters ?

Proper maintenance is vital to ensure the long-lasting beauty and functionality of your granite countertops.

One essential maintenance step is sealing your granite countertops, which protects them from potential damage and preserves their stunning appearance.

Understanding Porosity :

Granite is an igneous rock that consists mainly of quartz, feldspar, and mica.

Although it is a dense material, it is also porous to a certain extent.

This porosity means that liquid substances can penetrate the surface of the granite, potentially leading to staining and damage.

The Role of Sealers in Granite Protection :

Sealers are designed to fill in the microscopic pores of your granite countertop, creating a barrier that prevents liquids from seeping in.

By sealing your granite countertops, you can prevent stains, bacterial growth, and damage that could compromise the integrity of the surface.

The Consequences of Neglecting Granite Sealing

unsealed granite countertops can lead to a variety of problems, some of which can be difficult to reverse.

This is what happens if you don’t seal granite countertops:

Staining and Discoloration

Unsealed granite countertops are vulnerable to staining from liquids such as wine, coffee, and cooking oils. These substances can seep into the pores of the granite and cause permanent discoloration.

Bacterial Growth

Since unsealed granite countertops can absorb liquids, they can also provide a breeding ground for bacteria.

This can be particularly problematic in kitchen environments where food preparation occurs, potentially leading to contamination and health risks.

Erosion and Damage

Acidic substances like lemon juice, vinegar, and some cleaning products can cause etching on the surface of unsealed granite.

Over time, this can result in dull spots and a loss of the polished finish.

Sealed Granite vs Unsealed Granite: If you seal the granite, all the above problems will be taken care of.

Signs Your Granite Needs Sealing

If you notice any of the following, it might be time to seal your granite surface:

Water droplets don’t bead up on the surface
The surface darkens when wet
Stains appear easily

How to Seal Your Granite Countertops: A Step-by-Step Guide

Sealing your granite countertops is a simple process that you can perform yourself or hire a professional to do.

Here is a really informative Video for How to properly seal granite by Stone Care.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Clean the countertop: Before applying the sealer, clean the granite countertop thoroughly using a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. Ensure that the surface is dry before proceeding.
Apply the sealer: Pour a small amount of granite sealer onto a clean, soft cloth or applicator pad. Spread the sealer evenly over the entire surface of the countertop, working in small sections.
Allow the sealer to penetrate: Let the sealer soak into the granite for the time specified by the product’s instructions, typically 15-30 minutes.
Wipe off excess sealer: Using a clean, dry cloth, gently buff the surface of the countertop to remove any excess sealer.
Allow time for curing: Allow the sealer to cure for at least 24 hours before using the countertop.

How Often should you Seal Granite Countertops

The frequency at which you should seal your granite countertops depends on the specific type of granite, its porosity, and the amount of use it receives.

A general guideline is to seal your countertops at least once a year.

However, if your countertops see heavy use or are particularly porous, you may need to seal them more frequently.

Protect Your Investment with Proper Granite Sealing

Sealing your granite countertops is a crucial step in ensuring their longevity and beauty.

By taking the time to properly maintain your countertops, you can protect your investment and enjoy the stunning appearance of granite for years to come.

Disclaimer :

The information in this post is for general informational purposes only. The author
and publisher are not responsible for any damage, injury, or loss that may occur from using the
information provided. Readers should follow safety guidelines and take necessary precautions
as listed by installation countertop professionals.