Unsealing the Advantages of Granite Sealant

Granite countertops are rare sights inside a kitchen. Although this igneous rock is a common building material, it is seldom used for work surfaces in the kitchen. The uniqueness of granite countertops make them prized possessions for households. Owners care for their granite structures to heighten performance and durability. After collection and processing, the granite output still has micro-cracks on its surface. These cracks do not influence the hardness and strength of the block, but they are detrimental to its appearance. In addition, the wear and tear it will receive on a daily basis will also damage its aesthetic appeal. Therefore, a sealant is needed to protect its surface from such damage. Sealant on granite is like urethane applied on hardwood. It provides a protective film that prevents liquids and stains from seeping into the micro-cracks. It also toughens the block against scratches and other surface damage. Sealant must be applied on a granite countertop before first use. This will ensure that the countertop will perform very well over time. To effectively apply granite sealant, the countertop must be free from dust. The principle is similar to removing all unnecessary debris from a newly rolled out wall before coating it with primer and paint. A clean surface increases sealant adherence. With the protective film steadily anchored to the surface, no small spots are left open for liquids to permeate. Before applying granite sealant, the owner must review the countertop’s location. If it will be placed in an area where it is frequently exposed to water, it has to be sealed on both rough and polished surfaces before it is permanently fixed in position. Sealing the rough surfaces where additional fixtures might be installed will prevent water damage to the main countertop surface. For optimum care, it is best to prevent any liquid from sitting on the countertop for a long time. The longer the surface is exposed to staining materials, the deeper the smudges penetrate the granite. This makes them harder to remove. Whether the countertop is treated with granite sealant or not, it is imperative to minimize surface exposure to staining and corrosive agents.