How to Seal a Granite Tile Countertop
Granite tile counter tops are a cost-efficient option when slab granite exceeds your budget, but you want the look and durability of natural stone. The Marble Institute of America recommends sealing your granite tile when the stone has not been pre-sealed or filled during manufacture or when the tile surface will receive heavy wear. Sealants lay on the surface of the stone, making it more resistant to regular spills and grime, and can extend the life of the stone finish. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Natural oleophobic stone sealer spray
- Clean, lint-free towels/cloths
- Masking tape or newspaper
Instructions
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Allow any recent granite tile installations to dry and cure thoroughly for at least three days and nights before applying a sealer product.
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Wipe down the granite tile with a clean, lightly damp and lint-free cloth to remove any dirt or dust. Allow the surface to dry for a few minutes until you cannot feel any obvious moisture when touching it.
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Cover or mask off the areas around the granite to block over-spray. Use masking tape or newspaper or a combination thereof as needed.
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Spray a generous and even layer of sealer over the entire granite surface, spreading the sealer with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth. Let the sealer rest undisturbed on the surface for 15 to 30 minutes.
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Wipe down the granite tile surface with a fresh, dry, lint-free cloth to pick up any excess sealer product.
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Refrain from touching or setting anything down on the surface until the sealer is dry and cured. This can be for 24 hours or up to three days depending on your brand of sealer. Follow the product label recommendations.
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Tips & Warnings
Choose a natural stone liquid sealant product designed with a wear expectancy of 10 to 15 years. Ensure that the sealant is oleophobic, meaning it will largely repel staining from water and oil. Also look for products that are water based and made from acrylic, styrene or polyethylene polymers.
The grout joints between and backing your granite tiles can be made from several different materials and compounds. These range from traditional sanded grout, plastic sealant, epoxy or even resin. Consult and follow the recommendations of the manufacturer of the grout material when choosing a sealant for optimal performance.
Open the area windows and doors to get maximum ventilation during application, and apply the sealer when ambient temperatures are between 50 degrees and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
References
- Photo Credit Vegetables on kitchen counter image by Olena Talberg from Fotolia.com
