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The granite countertops in your kitchen, bar, and island need to be protected from food spatter, cooking grease, cleaning chemicals, watermarks, and more.  The way to protect your countertop is to seal it, but what is the best way to seal a granite countertop?  Here are tips from the pros (us!):

• Set Aside Time– To seal granite properly, you need to prep it, apply the sealer, and then let it cure, typically for several hours. This time frame can significantly affect how and when you prepare and eat meals.  Additionally, kids and pets need to be kept out of the kitchen while you seal the countertops, since the fumes can be strong.  Simply put, sealing your granite countertops is a lengthy chore that takes dedicated time and planning!
• Find the Right Sealer– Find a highly rated sealer that is approved by the manufacturer of your countertops, and don’t forget to read the instructions, and all other fine print of your sealer to be sure it will indeed work well with your granite surface.
• Prep the Area– Before sealing, you’ll need to clean the countertops thoroughly. Use a mild, antibacterial dish detergent mixed with warm water, and a soft sponge or cloth to gently remove all residue and buildup.  Do not use steel wool, hard bristles, or other cleaning tools that could scratch the granite, and avoid abrasive or acidic cleaning solutions that could damage the surface.  Then, protect the sink, caulk, and other nearby surfaces that you do not want to accidentally coat with sealer.  You can typically just cover these areas with plastic wrap.
• Apply the Sealer– Apply the sealer evenly with a soft cloth or spray it from a spray bottle. (Wear rubber gloves when handling the sealer).  Be sure the surfaces are completely saturated and evenly coated.  After applying the sealer, it should have a glossy, wet look.  Let the sealer sit for at least 10 minutes, in order to thoroughly penetrate the stone. If your granite is highly porous, or if it has not been sealed in quite a while, you may need to apply a second coat. 
• Let the Sealer Cure – After you’ve let the sealer sit for at least 10 minutes, remove the excess sealer with a dry cloth or paper towel, using circular motions.Then allow the surface to cure for at least 6 hours, or the recommended cure time, as listed on your product’s guidelines from the manufacturer.
• Clean the Sealed Surface – Once the surface has completely cured, use a mild dishwashing detergent and water to wipe down the surfaces and get them food-ready.

Sealing granite is an important step in maintaining your countertops, but it’s a task you may want to trust to a great tile sealing company.  First Coast Home Pros is the best tile and grout cleaning company Jacksonville FL homeowners rely on for their granite, porcelain, Saltillo, and travertine tiles, and more!  We’re the tile and grout cleaning professionals service Ponte Vedra Beach, Mandarin, Riverside, and Southside, and we’ll clean and seal your natural stone just the way you want it!