How to Clean Granite Before Sealing

Sealing granite is critical if you wish to preserve the stone material and make cleaning it easier in the future. However, it is essential that the granite be treated and cleaned thoroughly before sealing. This prevents locking in moisture or debris that may damage the granite material over time.

Things You'll Need

• White vinegar
• Water
• Granite stone cleaner (optional)
• Mop or rag

Instructions

1. Mix one part white vinegar with one part water, ensuring equal measurements of each. This creates a neutral (neither acidic or alkaline) solution that is safe for cleaning granite before sealing. Alternatively, you may purchase commercial granite cleaning solution from your local hardware or building supply store.

2. Soak the rag or mop thoroughly in the granite stone cleaning solution. Wipe down all exposed granite material that you wish to seal. Allow to dry thoroughly. Depending on the humidity of your local environment, this may take several minutes to several hours.

3. Inspect the granite rock before sealing, using your hand or a clean cloth. Check for efflorescent stone dust, which will appear as a thin layer on the granite surface. If you find stone dust, repeat Steps 1 and 2 until the granite material no longer extrudes dust when dry.

4. Apply granite stone sealant to the clean granite, following the manufacturer's instructions for proper sealing procedures.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the clean granite is completely dry before attempting to seal it, to prevent locking in any damaging moisture.

References

• Lankarge, Vicki. How to Increase the Value of Your Home: Simple, Budget-Conscious Techniques and Ideas. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2009.