How To Apply a Sealer to a Granite Worktop

Protecting your Granite Worktop

Natural stone has long been a popular choice for worksurfaces. Stone slabs usually have a number of chemical treatments applied to them during the quarrying process and are often re-treated before installation. However, due to their composition, these materials are at risk of staining.

Granite is often chosen for worksurfaces because of its' beauty, resistance to heat and general tough properties. However, it has a high level of porosity, a measure of the number of pores compared with the total solid volume. The pores that make up natural stone can be seen below. Granite is susceptible to the penetration of materials inside its structure, although it seems very solid to the naked eye!

What is a Stone Sealer and Why Should I Consider Using One?

Sealing natural stone refers to the process of applying a chemical surface treatment to the material. It is one of the most important things you can do to preserve the beauty of the granite for as long as possible.

Topical vs Impregnating Stone Sealers

There are two main variations of sealers available. Topical sealers create a film on the top of the stone and act like a blanket. However, over time the treatment erodes, leaving the work surface at risk of staining.

The type that offers better protection is an impregnating sealer, which infiltrates under the visible surfaces of the stone and bond to the pores to create a protective layer inside the stones' structure.

How do Stone Sealers Work?

Stone sealers are usually made of two major components: a type of resin, plus a carrier, that could be a petroleum-based solvent or simply water. The resin is dissolved by and within the carrier. The solution is absorbed into the stone, the solvent then evaporates and the resin remains in the stone and cures, partially blocking the pores of the stone.

How Much Sealer Do I Need for My Worktop?

The coverage guidelines for 1000ml of sealer when applied to polished granite is approximately 10 - 15 meters squared. This is an estimation as all stones have different levels of porosity and may consume a higher volume of sealer.

Stonetools Range of Stone Sealers

All the sealers we stock are impregnating and offer high-grade protection against staining. They are easy to apply - simply follow the steps below to learn how to apply a solvent based sealer to a granite worktop.

Note that sealers do not change the effect on the finish of the granite and won’t leave behind a shine or gloss because they penetrate below the surface and work inside the stone.

Safety Notice

Please observe the following safety guidelines.

• Refer to the Safety Data Sheet and Technical Data Sheet before use. These are available to view or download on the product page
• Use in a well ventilated area
• Wear protective gloves, eye protection and face protection, as recommended by the Safety Data Sheet

Products Used In This How To Guide

Step 1: Test your Current Sealer

First, you will need to assess whether a new application of a sealer is required. This Water Test will help you work out whether a sealer treatment is necessary.

1. Drop water onto the surface in different places of the worktop and leave it there for 20 minutes
2. Make sure you test different areas around the work surface, especially areas around the sink and heavily used parts
3. If dark shades or rings appear, the liquid is infiltrating the material and it is time to reseal. If you leave the water for a little longer than 20 minutes, it will disappear completely showing that the water has penetrated the material

Step 2: Prepare The Surface

Apply Treatment 1 Neutrex Detergent

Plan when to apply the sealer as it will take around 12 hours to fully dry and the worksurfaces cannot be used. Before you beign, ensure that you remove all items from the area.

1. First, the stone needs to be cleaned and degreased. Dilute the Neutrex Detergent, an alkaline based grime remover, at 5 - 15% in a water solution
2. Use masking tape to divide the area into small workable areas. Pour the cleaner onto the granite and leave to work for 10 - 15 minutes
3. Rub the area with a cotton rag or a non-abrasive pad
4. Rinse with clean water - be wary as you may need to rinse 2 or 3 times to ensure the detergent is fully removed. Once complete, remove the masking tape

Step 3: Apply The Sealer

Apply Treatment 2 Drexy Sealer

Before applying the Drexy Sealer, a preliminary test in a small, hidden, area is recommended before the main application. One of the most common issues with applying a sealer is not allowing the chemical the opportunity to impregnate the stone or allowing the product to dry on the surface.

1. Split the worktop again into manageable areas using masking tape and liberally pour the sealer onto the area. Allow the liquid to penetrate the surface for around 15 minutes. The sealer may bubble or foam - but don't worry this is normal
2. Move the excess product around the material using a cloth, removing puddles and streaks, adding more sealer to dry spots
3. Remove all of the remaining Drexy Sealer within 30 minutes using a dry cloth - do not allow the product to dry on the surface
4. Remove the masking tape and keep the surface dry for up to 24 hours, depending on the sealer used. Please refer to the Technical Data Sheet for specific guidance on the sealer you are using

Step 4: Maintain The Surface

Maintain With Treatment 3 Briotop Daily Cleaner

Now you can repeat the Water Test. The water droplets will sit on the surface. The worktop is now sealed and the application is complete. It is important that stone safe care products are used to maintain the protection.

1. When cleaning the surface on a daily basis, spray the area with Briotop Daily Cleaner and clean with a microfibre cloth to safely clean and shine the stone without breaking down the sealer treatment
2. Avoid using products that are non-stone safe such as common detergents
3. Perform the Water Test annually to determine whether a re-seal is required