When sealing the countertop, use a sealant and use a white rag or brush as a tool to seal. Wait about 3-4 minutes for the sealant to penetrate the stone. After the sealant is almost dry, apply some sealant again, and use a clean dry cloth to spread it evenly, and repeat until the entire countertop is sealed. After that, wait at least two hours before sealing. The waiting time depends on the characteristics of the sealant. The sealing range is preferably within 4-5 square feet. If granite needs to be sealed, at least two coats must be applied. Check if there is sufficient sealing. The solution is to sprinkle some water on the granite tile countertop, wait for about half an hour, and then wipe it dry. If the stone does not darken, it means it is sealed.
Not all granite needs to be sealed. Before sealing, drop a few drops of water on the stone to see that it will take a few minutes to completely evaporate. If the water penetrates the stone for less than 3-4 minutes, it may need to be sealed.
Sealing granite and natural stone with penetrating sealant (also called impregnation machine) can protect the structure of natural stone from deep. Using this sealant to seal natural stone or granite can be directly applied to the surface of the stone with a soft cloth. This method is simple and does not require experts to do it, so this sealant is recommended to seal granite.
The sealant will penetrate the stone surface without leaving traces of coating or film. The inside of the stone can be protected, but the surface cannot be protected. This means that calcareous natural stones such as marble, onyx, limestone, and travertine will still be corroded or darkened. If acidic substances such as orange juice or cola are sprinkled on it, it will corrode the stone.
In order to protect the surface of the stone, you can use natural plant soap or detergent for stone. During a regular deep cleaning, natural plant soap or detergent will form a film. Natural vegetable soaps and stone cleaners are as effective as descaling soaps and can remove dirt and impurities on the surface of the stone. The difference is that natural plant soaps or cleaners are mild cleaners.
There are two types of penetrating sealants: solvent-based and water-based.
Solvent-based penetrating sealants are more durable because they can penetrate deep into the stone. Water-based sealants cannot penetrate the deep layers of the stone.
For dense stones, water-based sealants cannot penetrate deeply and can only stay on the surface. This means that the stone cannot be protected for a long time. However, strong water-absorbent stones can absorb this sealant deeply. Therefore, water-based sealants are suitable for porous natural stones.
The most common protective materials in penetrating sealants are silicone, organic fluorine, etc. These materials will not be affected by external factors, and will only be damaged in the temperature range of 900F to 1200F or when exposed to strong alkaline solutions. The sealant composed of silicone oil, silane and siloxane can well remove water stains, such as coffee, tea, and other water-based liquids.
Fluorine-containing substances are generally water-based sealants, which have oil resistance and can prevent oily liquids such as grease and edible oil.
If you are sealing granite or natural stone countertops in the kitchen, it is best to use an oil-resistant impregnation machine. It can reduce the oil absorption speed, and can also prevent the oil from being carried on the stone, which will protect the stone well. Some have better water resistance and some have better oil resistance. You can choose according to the specific situation.