How to Polish and Seal Granite Countertops

Granite and other natural stone countertops can be found in millions of homes in the United States. Stone countertops are selected because of their beauty and durability, but they do require a little more maintenance than some other countertop materials. While many homeowners don’t know just what their countertops need, it is pretty simple. Cleaning, polishing, and sealing granite countertops at the right time will keep your countertops looking great. Knowing how to properly polish and seal a granite countertop is crucial for anyone who has one in their kitchen.

Before you polish or seal your countertops, you will want to make sure that they are clean. A proper granite cleaner will not contain any harsh chemicals that can lead to etching and scratching the surface of the stone. Aside from daily cleaning with a granite-specific cleaner, you will also want to make sure that you are cleaning up any spills that happen as soon as possible. Letting spills sit on the countertop can allow liquids to seep into the porous stone and cause stains and discoloration. This is why sealing granite countertops is so important.

Steps for Polishing a Granite Countertop

Selecting a granite polish can be daunting, but once you find one that gives you the desired shine you want without causing problems for the granite, you are ready to get started on making your countertops look brand new. Polish should be applied to granite countertops at least once a week.

Polishing the granite makes a countertop look like it’s brand new. For many homeowners, dull granite countertops can ruin the look of the kitchen. Before polishing your countertop, you need to make sure that the surface has been cleaned with a granite cleaner. Once the counters are dry, you can start polishing.

1. Shake the can well.
2. Hold can six to eight inches away from the surface of the stone and apply.
3. Use a soft, absorbent cloth to wipe the polish onto the stone in circular motions.
4. Let the polish dry to a dull finish.
5. Buff in a circular motion with a soft, clean cloth until the desired sheen is attained.

Granite polish will also help protect the countertops from stains, spills, glass rings, and etching that can easily occur with regular use.

Steps for Sealing a Granite Countertop

Granite countertops should be sealed once a year or every 18 months to ensure that they are properly protected from spills and any other accidents that may occur. To seal a granite countertop, you will first want to make sure that the countertops have been thoroughly cleaned with an appropriate cleaner. Once that is done, you need to find a granite sealer that is made without harsh chemicals that can damage the stone in your countertop. When you have your sealer, you do the following:

1. Shake the can well.
2. Spray a small amount to a portion of the stone and wipe it dry in a couple of minutes to test the product. If you like the way it looks, proceed to step 3.
3. Hold the can between six and eight inches away from the countertop and apply.
4. Let sit for two to three minutes.
5. Wipe dry with a clean cotton towel or paper towel.
6. Let sit for an additional 30 minutes to ensure that the countertop is completely dry before you return things to the countertop.

Now that you know how to care for granite countertops properly, you can keep yours looking perfect from day one to year 30. Granite countertops are an investment in your home, and keeping your countertops looking their very best will only add value to your home. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the work that goes into properly caring for granite countertops, handle the work like a professional with products that are easy to use and safe for granite.