Best Granite Sealer – A Guide on Selecting a Granite Countertop Sealer

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Granite is a very expensive type of surface that can be found in the home. While it may be a long-lasting and very strong substance, you will need to take care of it to ensure that it maintains its stunning potential. Granite is porous, which means that should you choose to use it in either your kitchen or your bathroom, you must use a granite sealer. You can purchase granite sealers in several different forms and they are a great option to take care of your countertops. We hope that what follows will assist you in selecting the ideal granite sealer for your needs.

What Is a Granite Sealer?

Granite may be durable, but this does not mean that water cannot cause damage to it such as etching, staining, and so on. As a porous substance, it requires a sealer to protect the surface from the likes of water, which can penetrate the granite and damage it.

A good granite sealer can be used to protect and lengthen the life of any natural stone. You will find that it is fairly simple to apply granite sealer, although you will need to ensure it is done regularly to sufficiently protect and maintain the surface. A granite sealer will impact the look of the finish and provides additional protection as a stain-resistant layer.

Why Do You Need to Seal Granite?

Granite is expensive, so you want to ensure that it lasts longer and will be protected from any damage. As a natural stone, it can fade and weather over time and, if left untreated, it can lose its shine, stain easily, and may even chip or crack. As a porous material, any liquid spilled on the surface will be absorbed by the stone, and should the liquid be unable to escape, this can cause internal damage by staining or cracking.

Using a granite sealer will ensure a protective layer is applied over your countertops to stop damage by repelling the liquids. You will then be able to clean your granite with ease and will not have to worry about spills forming stains. You will be able to keep the original shine and look of your granite by using the best granite sealers. The sealer also holds up well against household cleaners that would normally dull your granite’s finish. You do not need much experience to apply professional-grade granite sealers at home.

What is Granite Used For?

The beauty of granite is in how versatile it is, as it can be used for an assortment of applications. It is particularly known for its durability, strength, and gorgeous finish. Granite is ideal for use both indoors and outdoors thanks to its amazing strength, and as a result, you can also purchase granite sealer products formulated for both interior and exterior applications.

Granite’s most common use is for countertops, predominantly in a bathroom or kitchen. The surface is long-lasting, easy to maintain and clean, and is visually stunning. Granite can also be used in an assortment of other applications such as use for tiles, exterior finishes, columns, and several other design elements. It can also be used in decorative stone structures and statues.

It is a very expensive stone but is worth the money due to its strength, high level of quality, and overall luxury.

The Different Granite Sealer Options

You will need to consider a few aspects when selecting the best granite sealer. To ensure that your stone is protected and properly maintained, it is necessary to seal it for protection. You will achieve various levels of protection from different forms of granite sealers. What follows is a look at the three most popular types of granite sealer.

Penetrating Granite Sealers

As a porous substance, granite can have its pores filled by a penetrating sealer, which once cured will provide a finish that is durable and that offers protection against damage caused by water or stains. This form of granite sealer is not used for stain-proofing but instead for stain resistance. These particular sealers offer protection from inside the granite as opposed to an external layer of protection.

This means that penetrating granite sealers do not protect the granite from abrasions or scratches.

These types of sealers can be either water- or solvent-based, as both options are able to plug the pores while providing different formulas. Solvent-based formulas are more durable but are more toxic to work with, while water-based sealers are more harmless to use, although they might not offer the same level of stain protection that the solvent-based options do.

Topical Sealers

A topical sealer creates a barrier on the surface of the granite. This protects the granite from spills, marks, and scratches. A topical sealer will usually add a shiny, glossy finish to the granite and will work best when applied to a rougher form of natural stone, as the surface makes it easier for the sealant to adhere adequately.

Unfortunately, as countertops are often very smooth, topical sealers are not necessarily the best option.

Cracks can form when a topical sealer is used, as the sealer stops any moisture already present in the granite from escaping, which can cause the granite to crack. If you are going to use a topical sealer, ensure that it has specifically been formulated for countertops.

Enhancing Sealers

These types of sealers have two main functions, namely to be absorbed into the granite and protect the stone from damage and stains, and to enhance the overall look of worn, old granite surfaces. When applied to a countertop, the enhancing sealer provides a wet, glossy look that completely reinvigorates the surface. These sealers work similarly to penetrating granite sealers in that they are absorbed into the stone’s pores.

An enhancing sealer does offer some topical protection, but its primary use is to restore and enhance the overall look of the granite, giving it a new, shiny finish.

The Best Granite Sealer

Granite is very pricey, so if you are investing in a gorgeous piece of this stone for your countertops, you will want to ensure that it is protected. There is an assortment of granite cleaners, restorer, and sealer products available to purchase, so it can be difficult to pick the best option. We have selected the best products on the market and provided an overview in order to assist you in picking the right product.

Best Overall Granite Sealer: TRINOVA Granite Sealer and Cleaner

This product is a combination cleaner-and-sealer made by TriNova, meaning that it both cleans and protects your countertops. Easy to use and of excellent quality, this is one of the best granite sealers available. You simply spray the sealer directly onto your granite surface and then polish it into the stone for the best results. You can use this product on all types of stone, ensuring maximum care and protection for your premium stone surfaces.

TRINOVA Granite Cleaner and Sealer Bundle Pack

• A premium sealant and caring solution for your finest stone surfaces
• Enhances shine whilst protecting against common spills and messes
• Formulated with a strong blend of polymers for full protection

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The sealer comes in a spray and allows for deep penetration of the product, resulting in the ultimate protection. The sealer blocks the pores effectively, keeping the stains at bay. On top of protection, this product also provides a stunning shine to the granite, making it look as good as new. A permanent layer of protection is provided thanks to a strong blend of polymers, which also means that other products will not stick to the granite.

In addition to the granite sealer, this pack also includes a specialized cleaner for your stone surface. It will ensure that any messes are cleaned with ease and with time, will only further enhance the look of your granite. You can use this cleaner on the majority of countertops. What is great is this cleaner will not dull the granite in any way, but will instead enhance the stone’s natural shine, all the while offering additional protection against stains.

Best Penetrating Granite Sealer: STONE PRO Impregnating Pro Sealer

This sealer impregnates the granite, providing top-quality protection for not only granite but also grout, marble, tiles, and limestone. By using solvent-based hybrid carrier technology, this product offers a high level of protection. The formula is long-lasting, strong, and provides a permanent bonding solution as it fills the pores of the surface of the stone. Its high durability means that you can use it both outside and inside, where it provides resistance against waterborne and oil stains.

STONE PRO Pro Sealer

• Sealer offers advanced protection for granite, marble, tile, and grout
• Solvent-based hybrid carrier technology for maximum protection
• Product will not change the color or appearance of the stone

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Applying the sealer will both protect and maintain your granite’s original look as a result of its seeping into the pores of the surface, thus providing an effective layer of internal protection. When dried, the sealer will not leave any form of residue and will not change color. It is simple to apply and can be poured from the bottle directly onto the granite. This product is safe for all food preparation areas and is a great option for inexperienced users to work with, while also being non-flammable.

Best Glossy Granite Sealer: SIMPLECOAT Countertop Sealer

This sealer can be used on both stainless steel and stone and provides a stunning hydrophobic seal on an assortment of different surfaces. You can use this product on natural stone (which includes granite), decorative metals, plastic, stainless steel, and so much more! It has an eco-friendly formula, making it non-toxic and completely safe, so it can be used around pets and on food surfaces.

SIMPLECOAT Natural Stone and Stainless Steel Sealer

• Creates a hydrophobic, glossy seal on natural stone and more
• Eco-friendly, non-toxic formula that is food-, family-, and pet-safe
• Easy application: wipe on with a soft cloth, and then wipe off excess

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The product leaves a shiny appearance and is extremely simple to apply: You just need to wipe it on and then wipe it off – no curing time required! Once it has been applied, it offers a great amount of protection against stains while ensuring the natural, shiny appearance of your granite surface remains. This product has been specially designed for use on countertops, and does not contain any VOCs or solvents, nor does it give off any odors. This is one of the easiest ways to protect and treat your granite countertops.

Most Versatile Granite Sealer: STONETECH BulletProof Sealer

This sealer offers amazing protection and resistance to damage and stains, making it one of the best granite sealers. It is an extra-strength stain protector that is ideal for an assortment of interior surfaces. When applied to natural stone, it will give you stunning results. This water-based formula has advanced water-based fluoropolymers that provide amazing protection. This formula is also a safer option to use than that of a solvent-based product, which also means it is easier to clean up and manage.

STONETECH BulletProof Sealer

• Unique, extra-strength stain protector for porous natural stone 
• Delivers maximum protection for natural stone with great coverage
• Lasting protection due to advanced, water-based fluoropolymers

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You can get up to 100 feet of coverage out of just one bottle, and once applied you are guaranteed a good five years of protection over your interior granite surfaces. This seal will protect the granite against oil-based and water-based stains thanks to its penetrating micro-bond. This product not only enhances the surface of the granite, bringing out the natural appearance of the stone, but it also protects the surface from stains and damage while also making it easier to clean.

Best Granite Sealer Spray: STONE CARE International Granite Sealer and Protector

The Stone Care brand is well known and trusted for maintaining granite and stone surfaces. The spray option is convenient to use and is one of the brand’s top sellers when it comes to products for countertop care. You can use this formula on any solid stone surface and it will give you great results in protecting your countertops from water damage and stains. The spray is a penetrating sealer that provides strong protection as a result of how the flexible molecular links are formulated.

STONE CARE International Granite Sealer and Protector

• For use on all solid stone surfaces including granite, quartz, and more
• Penetrating sealer forms flexible molecular links for strong protection 
• Food-safe and streak-free formula in an easy-to-apply spray bottle

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This product is completely safe to use as the formula does not contain any ammonia or phosphates, which also means it can be applied to surfaces that will come into contact with food. The spray bottle makes it simple to apply and ensures a streak-free application for stunning results. You can cover a surface space of 75 square feet with each application. If you would like to ensure the best results, you should apply this sealer to your granite surfaces every six months.

Best Granite Sealer Wipes: GRANITE GOLD Sealer Wipes

It can be easy to apply a granite sealer –  just as simple as applying and wiping down. These granite sealer wipes make the process even more of a breeze. Once applied, the wipes form a barrier on the surface that offers a protective layer against coffee, oil, water, wine, and an assortment of other liquids. The barrier also protects the surface from soil build-up and etches. What is great is that you can use these wipes on any natural stone surfaces.

GRANITE GOLD Sealer Wipes

• Sealer wipes create a barrier that provides maximum protection
• Provides long-lasting protection on granite and all other natural stone
• Convenient application of sealer with safe, pre-moistened wipes

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These are versatile wipes that have been designed specifically for use on countertops and are completely safe to use in that they are non-acidic, non-toxic, food-safe, pH-balanced, and completely biodegradable. You will receive six wipes in a pack, where a single wipe can seal roughly 75 feet of the stone surface. Produced by a brand that has been in the business of stone care for over 70 years, you can rest assured that these granite sealer wipes are of the best possible quality.

Considerations for Selecting the Best Granite Sealer

There are a variety of options when it comes to selecting a great granite sealer, so it can seem a little daunting to select the right product for your countertops. We have provided some factors that you should take into consideration when selecting which granite sealer is best for you.

Water-Based versus Solvent-Based Granite Sealers

A great granite sealer is either water-based or solvent-based, and choosing one of these options is the most important element to take into consideration when selecting the right granite sealer. While there is a difference in the performance of the sealer types versus their formulation, you should remember that both options are effective.

A solvent-based product is normally quite toxic as it contains high volumes of VOCs and will therefore give off a strong odor, but that can be weighed against the amazing durability and long-lasting results the product will provide. Water-based products are more eco-friendly, safer, non-toxic, and are easier to use. Sadly, they are not as long-lasting or durable as solvent-based options.

Finish

Each granite sealer provides its own unique finish. The majority of penetrating and impregnating sealers sink into the pores and in no way alter the granite’s surface. Enhancing sealers and topical sealers, on the other hand, do alter the granite’s finish as they provide an external layer of protection.

Some granite sealers offer a dull finish while others provide a wet-looking, glossy finish, and some leave a film that is visible while others do not. Depending on which granite you are working with and the look you are hoping to achieve will determine which finish you should go for.

If you want your granite to get a fresh look, we recommend going with an enhancing sealer, which is ideal for restoring the appearance of granite.

Application/Packaging Method

Granite sealers can be bought in different forms, such as in squeeze bottles, spray bottles, wipe-on sealers, large pouring sealers, and so on. While these are all types of sealers, they can vary in what they are used for. Ensure that you select the correct application option for your granite sealer requirements.

Coverage

A good granite sealer will provide you with a large volume of surface area coverage, which not only ensures value for money but also allows you to complete your project with just one product. It is imperative that you have sufficient granite sealer to complete your whole project in one go, as applying extra sealer halfway through the job can negatively impact the sealer’s adhesive properties and the overall finish.

Reapplication

You want a granite sealer that is going to be long-lasting. With some sealers, you only need to reapply every five years, where others, unfortunately, have to be reapplied every six months. Ideally, you want a sealer that is going to last for as long as possible. That being said, a long-lasting sealer will, of course, be more expensive, but in the long run it will prove to be more value for money.

Durability

The most important thing about granite sealers is their durability. Your top selection for granite sealer should be very resistant to both water and oil stains and should be suitable to be used on both exterior and interior surfaces.

Tutorial for Sealing Granite

You now know why it is necessary to seal your granite, and you have the information to select the appropriate granite sealer, so now it is time to apply the product! The product you have chosen to use will impact how it should be applied, so ensure that you consult the guidelines you receive with the granite sealer you have purchased.

The overall application process for countertop sealers employs the same basic steps for the majority of products. What follows is a step-by-step application guide for using a general penetrating granite sealer on countertops.

• Begin by cleaning off your granite countertop. You can use a damp cloth and a gentle kitchen surface cleaner. We recommend that you use a cleaner specifically developed for cleaning granite surfaces. You can then be assured that your granite is completely cleaned without any resulting unwanted effects or damage to its overall appearance.
• Ensure that your granite is completely dry. If you try to apply your sealer to the granite while it is still wet, it will not adhere correctly. Rather allow for a little time for any moisture to escape from the granite’s pores.
• You can now begin to apply the product to your countertop. Use a cloth to apply the sealer (we suggest using a lint-free cloth).
• Put the sealer onto the cloth and then apply the product to the countertop. Carry on applying the sealer until the whole surface is completely covered.

The whole surface of the granite should be wet with sealer, although you do want to avoid any sealer dripping or running down the side of the countertops. You are aiming for an even finish.

• Try applying the sealer in small amounts, but this step will of course differ from product to product, as you may have chosen to use a spray-on product or wipe-on sealer.
• Allow the granite sealer time to dry. It will dry relatively quickly, normally in about 10 minutes, we recommend that you refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the exact time required for each product.
• When the first layer has completely dried, you can then begin applying the second layer. Follow the process as previously advised.
• Allow the sealer to dry. How long it will take to dry all depends on which product you have used, so once again, consult the instructions. We recommend that you allow at least 24 hours for the surface to dry completely before placing anything on top of your countertops.
• Your countertops are now sealed. Keep an eye on the maintenance of your surfaces, as you will have to reapply the sealer from time to time. The frequency of reapplication will depend on your product.
• To further protect your surfaces, try to wipe away any spills as soon as they happen to prevent any water damage.

Tips and Tricks for Sealing Granite

It is so simple to apply a granite sealer that anyone can do it at home and achieve amazing results. Here are a few suggestions that can make the whole process even easier while ensuring the perfect finish.

• How do you determine if your granite has already been sealed? On a small, inconspicuous area of granite, apply a little bit of water and oil (just a few drops) next to each other. Allow 15 minutes to go by and observe if the oil and water have soaked into the granite or left any form of marks. If it has, then the granite has not been sealed and you will need to seal it. If, however, there are no marks, then the granite is sealed already.

If you are trying to determine if it is time to reseal your surfaces, this is also a great method to try.

• We suggest that you clean your granite at least 24 hours in advance before applying your sealer. Try to not use harsh chemical cleaners on the granite – a homemade solution of two tablespoons of isopropyl alcohol, water, and one teaspoon of dishwashing detergent creates an ideal cleaning solution.
• Always ensure that you have sufficient ventilation when applying a granite countertop sealer. to avoid fumes, try opening the sealer near a window or outside.
• Wear the necessary safety equipment. You will have to wear rubber gloves when applying the granite sealer, and we also suggest that you wear a respirator mask.
• Do not leave the granite sealer on for longer than 20 minutes. If you allow it to sit longer, it can result in the discoloring of your granite.
• Once your granite surfaces have been sealed, we recommend using specialized cleaning products to clean the granite. A good granite cleaner will ensure that your granite surface retains its natural appearance and will not be damaged in any way. An all-purpose cleaner could potentially dull the granite’s shine and impact the overall quality.

To ensure that your granite is preserved, it is important to use the best granite countertop sealer. Hopefully, our guide has prepared you in being able to select the ideal granite sealer for your surfaces. You will reap the rewards of sealing your granite countertops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Have to Apply Granite Sealer to Granite?

If you do not use a granite sealer, your granite will absorb all moisture and water, which will result in damages and marks forming. The sealer ensures that all moisture is repelled and the granite’s natural look is maintained.

How Long Should You Allow the Granite Sealer to Dry?

This differs from product to product, but we suggest allowing at least 24 hours to pass before you use your countertops.

Which Is the Best Granite Sealer?

The answer to this question differs depending on your requirements. As a standard, a deep penetrating sealer is a great option. We can recommend the TriNova granite sealer and cleaner to provide you with stunning results.