How to Pick the Best Sealant for Granite Countertops

Installing granite countertops can add beauty and value to your home. However, without proper sealing, granite is susceptible to stains that can be difficult to remove. Choosing the best sealant is crucial for protecting your investment and maintaining the look of your countertops for years to come.

You'll learn about the different types of sealants, what to look for when buying, proper application techniques, and maintenance tips. With the right sealant and care, your gorgeous granite can stay looking brand new.

Why Sealing Granite Countertops is Essential

Unlike manufactured surfaces like quartz, natural stone like granite is porous. Without a protective seal, liquids can penetrate into the pores leading to dark, stubborn stains. Sealant fills in granite's microscopic pits and crevices to prevent absorption.

Sealing is especially important for lighter colored granites, which show stains more visibly. Darker varieties also require sealing for optimal stain resistance and longevity.

Benefits of Sealing Granite Countertops

• Blocks oil, grease, and water-based stains
• Resists bacteria growth
• Minimizes damage from acidic foods and drinks
• Prevents dark water marks and rings
• Allows for easier cleaning and maintenance
• Retains the natural, beautiful look of granite

Neglecting to seal and properly care for granite countertops can lead to irreversible etching, discoloration, and costly replacement. Sealing granite provides a protective barrier that is well worth the small time and cost investment.

Types of Sealants for Granite Surfaces

There are a few main categories of sealants for granite and other natural stone:

Penetrating Sealants

Penetrating sealants are designed to soak into the stone's pores and form a protective lining inside. This type of sealer prevents absorption while allowing vapor transmission so the stone can breathe.

Popular options like SenGuard and Miracle Sealants 511 Impregnator work below the surface to repel stains. They are economical, easy to apply, and long-lasting.

Topical Sealants

Topical sealants coat the surface of the stone to create a protective barrier. These products work to repel water, oils, and staining agents. However, topical sealers wear away over time and have to be frequently reapplied.

Granite Gold Daily Cleaner is a popular daily-use topical spray. For more heavy-duty sealing, StoneTech BulletProof Sealer offers maximum stain protection.

Impregnating Sealants

Impregnating sealants combine the benefits of penetrating and topical products. They soak deep while also leaving an upper barrier for extra resistance. Dry Treat Stain Proof and Aqua Mix Sealers Choice Gold are trusted impregnating options.

This type of sealer provides the most complete and long-lasting granite protection. Though they cost more initially, impregnators are a wise investment to shield beautiful countertops.

How to Choose the Best Granite Sealant

With many sealant products available, choosing the right one involves considering a few key factors:

Stain Prevention

The primary purpose of any sealant is to prevent staining. Check that the product provides maximum protection against water, oils, and common food and beverages. Opt for an impregnator or penetrating sealer for comprehensive absorption resistance.

UV Rays Protection

Granite can fade or discolor when exposed to sunlight over time. Look for a sealer like Tenax Hydrex that shields against UV ray damage to prevent fading.

Application Method

Choose a sealant that goes on smoothly and easily. Spray application allows for fast, simple sealing. Some products require rubbing in by hand. Read directions to ensure the method fits your preferences and granite installation type.

Longevity

You want a granite sealer that keeps countertops protected for as long as possible. Many penetrate deep and last 1-5 years before reapplying. Topical sealers require more frequent reapplication every few months.

Safety

Only use sealants labeled non-toxic and safe for use on granite and food prep surfaces. Look for products meeting NSF/ANSI 51 food safe standards.

Brand Reputation

Trust top reviewed and recommended sealant brands like Aqua Mix, Miracle Sealants, Granite Gold, and Dry Treat that professionals use.

Cost

Consumer-grade sealants range from $20-70 based on quality, quantity, and sealer type. Consider cost per use over time rather than just initial price.

The Best Granite Sealant Products

Based on excellent reviews, ratings, and results, here are the top granite sealants to consider:

1. SenGuard Stone Sealer

SenGuard offers professional-grade protection at an affordable price. Their convenient DIY Granite Sealer Kit comes with everything needed to easily seal 35 square feet. It bonds deep with a durable oil and water repellent seal lasting 3-5 years.

2. Miracle Sealants 511 Impregnator

Used by professional installers, Miracle 511 Impregnator seals with a deep penetrating silicone for 5+ years of stain protection. Bonds occur below the surface to prevent dark marks without altering the natural look.

3. Granite Gold Daily Cleaner Spray

Granite Gold Daily Cleaner cleans safely while providing ongoing topical sealing. The antimicrobial, streak-free formula is an economical option for daily maintenance and sealing between deep impregnations.

4. StoneTech BulletProof Sealer

StoneTech BulletProof offers the most heavy-duty water and oil-based stain protection. The premium impregnator seal resists household use, UV exposure, and weathering for up to 10 years.

5. Aqua Mix Sealers Choice Gold

This natural look Aqua Mix impregnator provides long-lasting sealing plus enhances stone color and polish. Low odor and easy water-based application make it a user and environmentally friendly choice.

How to Properly Apply Granite Sealant

Getting the most protection from any granite sealant requires proper application:

Cleaning

Thoroughly clean countertops to remove dirt, residue, and existing waxes or coatings. Use a stone-safe cleaner and rinse well prior to sealing.

Reading Instructions

Carefully read the product label and follow directions. Pay attention to special requirements like surface preparation, dry time, and application methods.

Applying Evenly

Distribute sealer evenly across the entire surface using overlapping strokes. Don't allow excess sealer to pool.

Curing Completely

Allow granite sealant to fully cure for the recommended time before use. This allows the protective barrier to set completely.

Periodic Resealing

Reapply sealant based on product guidelines to maintain protection. Typically needed every 1-5 years depending on sealant type.