Natural stone is porous and it is possible that its surface allows the absorption of liquids, with the consequent risk of staining. If you're planning on waterproofing your granite countertops, this step-by-step guide will show you how to do it quickly.
Steps
Step 1. Do the paper towel test to find out if your granite needs waterproofing
Some types of granite don't need it, and doing it on these countertops would just make a mess.
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Wet a paper handkerchief (unprinted) or a white cotton towel. Place it on the counter and wait for about 5 minutes.
Seal Granite Countertops Step 1Bullet1 - Did the area under the handkerchief darken because the water was absorbed? If it has changed color, it means that the granite needs to be waterproofed.
Step 2. Spray a spray cleaner evenly over the entire surface
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Rub it well with a tissue and wait a couple of minutes. The surface must have dried completely.
Seal Granite Countertops Step 2Bullet1
Step 3. Apply the waterproofer evenly to the counter
You can use a spray bottle, but a rag or toothbrush will work fine too.
Step 4. Let the stone absorb the waterproofing for about 20 to 25 minutes
Step 5. When the waterproofing is almost dry, apply another coat by rubbing well with a clean dry rag to make it penetrate deeply
Step 6. Wait at least two hours, then proceed with a second application of the product
Waiting times depend on the waterproofing brand.
Advice
- When applying the product, be sure to do it all over the surface.
- Granite has a naturally porous surface, so be sure to clean it thoroughly with a low pH cleaner and wait for it to dry completely before waterproofing. Depending on the thickness and quality of your granite, it may even take one night.
- Granite counter tops should be re-treated every 2-3 years.
- Remember that if you are not using a permanent waterproofer, you will need to apply and reapply it to your granite every six months.
- If your granite needs waterproofing, apply at least two layers of product.
- The purpose of a waterproofing is to prevent liquids from penetrating the granite. Also practice it when substances other than water infiltrate the granite. These "other" liquids can leave stains that are difficult to remove and are also home to germs and bacteria.
Warnings
- Not all varieties of granite need waterproofing. However, there are only a couple of types that are compact enough not to need them, but even these could be infiltrated. Almost all of them need to be treated if you want to protect them from potentially harmful agents.
- Read, understand and follow the product instructions.
