Caring for Your Granite Countertop

We Seal Your Granite Countertops at Installation

Our granite countertops are sealed during the installation process. Sealer protects granite from staining due to pigments in liquids, juices, and sauces that may spill on the countertop. But be sure to wipe up the spill right away – the sealer buys you time before the spill penetrates the stone and becomes a stain.

This initial sealer will generally last 3 to 5 years, depending on the color and porosity of the granite. The variance in how long the initial sealer will last is due to granite being a natural material, and as a result, no two granite slabs are the same.

When Should I Reseal My Granite Countertop?

As a rule of thumb, the lighter in color the granite, the more it needs to be resealed, while darker granite colors are likely to be less porous and require less sealing. You can test your sealer one year after installation by dripping a puddle of water on the surface. If the puddle darkens quickly, then sealing annually is recommended. If it takes several minutes to darken, then your sealer is working and you can test again the following year. Depending on the results of your annual test, most homeowners will settle in on resealing intervals of between one and three years. Some granites, due to high density, may not have to be resealed for up to five years.

Resealing Your Granite Countertop is Simple

Resealing your countertop is one of the easier DIY projects. Most homeowners find they can accomplish this simple task without any problems and with little time invested. Of course, in the event you need any help, we’re here to answer your questions.

See our How to Reseal Your Natural Stone Countertop page for easy, step-by-step instructions.

Routine Cleaning of Your Granite Countertop

Granite countertops are easy to clean. The key is to use mild detergents that are pH neutral mixed with water and a soft, clean cloth. Many homeowners keep a spray bottle of diluted pH neutral cleaner and a microfiber cloth handy for everyday cleaning. See our How to Clean Your Natural Stone Countertop page for important instructions on how to clean your granite surface, as well as some cautions regarding the use of harsh chemical cleaners.

How Do I Remove a Tough Stain in my Granite Countertop?

If you do have a stain on your countertop that won’t clean up with a pH neutral cleaner, we carry products that are specially formulated to remove tough stains. Please call us or stop by our showroom and we’ll make sure you purchase the right cleaner and will provide expert instruction on how to remove the stain.

Contact Us with Any Questions or Concerns About Sealing and Cleaning Granite

Remember that we are with you every step of the way, and that includes our customer service after installation. If you ever find yourself having questions about or issues with resealing or cleaning your granite countertop, feel free to call us or drop by the showroom and our natural stone experts will answer your questions and help resolve your concerns.