However, the grandeur of granite countertops calls for regular maintenance. That’s where a top-notch granite sealer comes into play to help maintain that pristine appearance.
Even though it might seem as simple as wiping off any spills from your countertop, remember that granite, like your favorite sponge cake, is porous. Over time, those seemingly innocent spills can turn into significant threats, causing harm to your precious stone. Granite countertops can be sealed with ease! Think of a granite sealer as the superhero of your kitchen; it doesn’t just offer protection but some variants even come with added powers to polish, clean, and sanitize. When you weigh this against the hefty expense of countertop replacement, the choice becomes clear.
In this concrete jungle of granite sealers available in 2023, our review aims to simplify your quest by comparing all the products. Our comprehensive comparison table highlights the varying protection durations and flags those sealers with added cleaning and polishing abilities.
Beyond the comparison, we’ve assembled a detailed granite countertop buyer’s guide that makes maintaining your granite surfaces feel like a breeze. The conversation doesn’t end at types of granite and sealants, we’ve also walked you through the key factors to consider when sealing your granite surfaces.
Video: How to Properly Seal Granite
1. TriNova Granite Sealer
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This guardian of granite comes in an easy-to-use spray bottle. Thanks to its distinct design, you can effortlessly guide the product exactly where sealing and protection are needed. The TriNova sealer, akin to a master locksmith, infiltrates deep into the granite pores, ensuring a flawless sealing of every crevice. Moreover, it masterfully constructs an invisible shield that vehemently resists the invasion of water and oil onto your precious granite.
Now, while the spray bottle claims the throne of convenience, you have the liberty to opt for a damp cloth to apply the product. Once you’ve woven this protective layer over your granite, you’ll witness a magnificent shine as a delightful bonus. This protective layer dries into a non-sticky finish, making your future granite cleaning tasks a piece of cake.
After application, a simple buffing action can award your granite surfaces with a crystal-clear finish. This step might seem like an extra mile, but with the TriNova Granite Sealer, it turns into a quick sprint, as effortless as breathing.
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2. Black Diamond Stoneworks Granite Sealer
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With every spritz, this magic potion lays down a firm, impenetrable barrier, much like an invisible fortress guarding your granite against the savage scratches and the nuisance of scuffs. What’s more, it flaunts a non-corrosive, non-toxic persona, making it the perfect guardian of your precious stone.
The wizardry of this granite sealer extends to making your surfaces a breeze to clean. Imagine a surface so hard yet so smooth, it can effortlessly be wiped clean with a mere damp cloth. With Black Diamond Stoneworks Granite Sealer, you’re not just ensuring protection for your granite, you’re gifting yourself a pocket of saved time and averted troubles. A gentle water-based formulation that harbors no harsh chemicals, only a refreshing whiff of lemon scent.
From kitchen counters to bathroom surfaces, the adaptability of this granite sealer is commendable. It dives deep into the pores of your granite, enhancing its resilience against stubborn stains. Even with frequent water contact, this stalwart granite sealer ensures the moisture remains at bay.
Video: How to Seal Granite Countertops and Other Natural Stone
3. Granite Gold Water-Based Sealing
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However, Granite Gold Sealer Spray stands as a shining exception in this sea of sameness. With its non-toxic, non-acidic, and biodegradable constitution, it redefines the granite sealer market, offering an odorless, harmless, yet effective solution.
You can now extend the Gold Sealer Spray’s magic to any surface, be it your bathroom, kitchen, or any other corner of your home. The product’s water-based formula promises a non-disruptive application experience, free of unpleasant odors or potential discoloration linked to acids.
With its universal appeal, this granite sealer flexibly adapts to most types of stone surfaces. In fact, it is arguably one of the easiest-to-use granite sealers on the market. You simply mist the product onto your chosen area, let it dry, and voila! Apply a second coat, if necessary, after a 20-minute interval.
Upon drying, it forms a steadfast shield on your surface, effectively repelling water penetration into your precious granite. However, such convenience does come with a slight caveat. The protective effect of the Granite Gold Sealer Spray may only last about a year, and it could require multiple coats to offer comprehensive protection to your granite surfaces.
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4. Miracle Sealants Impregnator Sealer
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Miracle sealants impregnator sealer asserts a confident claim of offering a stunning two-decade long shield for your granite. The magic lies in its ability to seep deep into stone surfaces, acting as an unwelcome gatekeeper for water and other unwanted liquids. Plus, it graciously serves both indoor and outdoor spaces with equal competence.
Stretching its protective reach over a thousand feet of granite, this formula is as safe as it is potent. Its non-toxic nature makes it an ideal companion for granite countertops that routinely come in contact with food. Once dried, it forms a resilient barrier, repelling both water and oil with ease. Such confidence is backed by an impressive 20-year warranty that stands testament to its longevity.
Not only limited to granite, this versatile product readily embraces other surfaces, including natural stone, ceramic tiles, and slate. A word of caution, though: it may not be the best choice for grout applications and demands extra care. Another aspect to note is its initially strong aroma.
While this scent dissipates swiftly, its initial presence may be a tad overwhelming. In case of indoor use, ensure adequate ventilation to keep the atmosphere pleasant. It’s crucial to apply this product with care, as incorrect application could lead to discoloration or smudging.
5. Tenax Granite Sealer
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Tenax granite sealer invites you into an incredibly user-friendly application process. All you need is to sprinkle some onto a cloth – even an old t-shirt will do – and gently rub it over your granite surface. The Tenax formula comes packed with such potency that it promises a lifetime of protection, potentially making it the only granite sealer you’ll ever need.
The beauty of this product lies in its simplicity: a single layer of the sealer is all your granite needs to stay safeguarded. It’s a winning combination of time efficiency and cost-effectiveness. It dries super fast too! However, keep in mind, the true magic of water resistance reveals itself after 24 hours. If you’re planning to apply it in the bathroom or on any granite surfaces that frequently interact with water, a little patience will serve you well.
The initial scent of this sealer is pretty strong. So, while you’re unleashing the power of the Tenax Granite Sealer, make sure the area is well-ventilated to keep the atmosphere fresh and comfortable.
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6. Stain Proof Premium Impregnating Sealer
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With its formidable strength, it proves to be a champion at sinking deep into the surfaces, crafting long-lasting, resilient finishes perfect for your granite countertops, flooring, and beyond. The beauty of this sealer is its uncanny ability to let the stone breathe, creating a finish filled with microscopic voids.
While they completely deny entry to water and oil, they graciously permit the expulsion of air and vapor. This unique trait keeps the threat of moisture-locking at bay, a problem you might encounter with other sealers. Versatility is another feather in its cap, as it works perfectly both indoors and outdoors. Unlike its counterparts that demand reapplication every few years, this one boasts of a ‘forever-lasting’ claim.
Given its long-lasting performance, the seemingly steep price point of the Stain Proof Premium Impregnating Sealer can be justified. However, its high cost might make it suitable only for those truly invested in their projects. Each coat requires a mere 10 minutes to dry, and with just 2-3 layers, you can rest assured of a well-sealed surface. Thus, you can wrap up your sealing mission in a jiffy!
Unquestionably, this sealer stands tall amongst the best high-end sealers available. Garnering an impressive 80% positive reviews, it is evident that users have been left satisfied.
7. Tenax Ager Color Enhancing Granite Sealer
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Enter the Tenax Ager Color Enhancing Granite Sealer, your cost-effective solution for medium to large projects. To start, this gem is one of the most budget-friendly options available. Its exceptional coverage means that, with careful application, a single quart will last you a substantial amount of time. Precision – sloppy application techniques are the only real culprits here.
One standout feature of this granite sealer is its one-time application requirement. Unlike other stone sealers that demand repeated applications, with the Tenax Ager, you apply it once and then forget about it. So, there’s no need to clutter up your calendar with extra, optional tasks.
Grab a scrap piece of cloth or an old, stained T-shirt, and you’re good to go. With its quick-drying property, this granite sealer makes the process a breeze. Your surface will be ready for buffing and polishing in just ten minutes. For those larger areas like floors, this rapid drying time means you can cover significant ground in record time. But remember, although it dries quickly, it takes a full 24 hours for its water-repelling properties to fully activate.
While the Tenax Ager Color Enhancing Granite Sealer comes with an array of benefits, it’s essential to note a few drawbacks. This sealer does possess potent and somewhat toxic properties. It has a strong odor that necessitates respiratory protection if used indoors, and its safety for kitchen countertops is a point of concern.
Video: Using the Right Products for Cleaning & Polishing Granite
8. MORE Premium Stone Sealer
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That’s what you get with MORE Premium Stone Sealer, your one-stop solution for sealing a plethora of natural stones including granite, marble, clay, slate, and tiles. This granite sealer breathes new life into grout, protecting it from harm and giving it a renewed appearance.
With the MORE Premium Stone Sealer, you’re getting a dual-function product: a sturdy sealant and a reliable stain protector, viable both indoors and outdoors. Applying this is a breeze: ensure the surface is generously and smoothly covered without leaving any uneven bumps. This sealer not only boosts the color and texture of your natural stone but also ensures safety in all rooms of your home.
Picture a granite sealer that’s not just effective but also user-friendly for everyday application. Start by using a spray or a paintbrush to apply it, then allow at least 15 minutes for it to dry. A sealed countertop that repels spills effectively, bidding farewell to unsightly stains. With the power of MORE Premium, dirt and oil are effortlessly dissolved, leading to a breeze in cleaning.
But it’s not all just about utility. This granite sealer promises an invigorating sensory experience. After application, your room will be enveloped in a fresh aroma reminiscent of peppermint and thyme, all while not emitting any off-putting odors.
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9. FILA Surface Countertop Sealer
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FILA surface countertop sealer gentle yet effective solution, formulated with a neutral recipe, is ideal for the tender care of natural stones. This is the ultimate solution for maintaining the sheen and cleanliness of your sealer-treated stone surfaces daily, essentially extending the life of the sealer’s protection.
Through habitual use of this product, the strength of your surface’s protective seal is invigorated, assuring longevity for your countertops. The FILA Surface Countertop Sealer shines when it comes to routinely cleaning your natural stone counters, bathroom vanities, tables, and window sills. But it doesn’t stop there; it can work its magic on surfaces like marble resin and quartz too.
The product’s design prioritizes your health and safety. Rest assured, it’s entirely safe for areas where you prepare food. The fast-drying, spray-and-wipe solution is an absolute breeze to use, making FILA Surface Countertop Sealer an unmissable addition to your home care routine.
10. Rock Doctor Granite Sealer
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When it comes to finding cleaning solutions for almost any surface, Rock Doctor operates with an almost encyclopedic knowledge, always ready with the perfect antidote.
Unlike its competitors, Rock Doctor Granite Sealer doesn’t skimp on quantity. It emerges onto the stage, packaged as a bundle of two 18 oz cans, offering ample solution for your granite sealing needs. This is not just another granite sealer, but a relentless stain-exterminator. It penetrates deep into the roots of the granite, eradicates stains and polishes the surface to a high shine.
One of the standout features of Rock Doctor Granite Sealer is its versatility. It’s not just for granite – it lends its magic to a variety of materials, including natural stone and common countertop surfaces. The reason for its effectiveness is its unique ability to penetrate porous structures, providing a thorough, deep clean that’s simply unmatched.
Moreover, Rock Doctor Granite Sealer is a marathon runner in the world of sealers, offering a protective lifespan that ranges from six months to a whopping year. This longevity will depend on factors such as how much your countertop is used, how often it’s cleaned, and how well it’s maintained.
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Buying Guide: Granite Sealer
There are different granite sealers, so don’t assume they’re all alike. Variations can occur in the strength, active ingredients, and even quantity of the product. Choosing the right granite sealer involves considering several factors.
Number of Coats
A longer process will ensue if you need to apply for more coats. A number of coats will elevate the cost of the product as well. Products that work with just one coat are quicker and more cost-effective.
Toxicity
It is important to avoid breathing in toxic chemicals while applying granite sealer. There are a number of organic and water-based products available today. The formulas are chemical-free, so your lungs and the environment are safe.
Odor
There are some granite sealers that have a strong and somewhat acrid aroma. It is therefore important to ensure the area where you apply them is well-ventilated. Nevertheless, there are products available that are odorless and even have pleasant scents.
Food Safe
When installing granite countertops, it’s important to ensure that they are food-safe. The countertop will not leach chemicals when your food touches it.
Drying Time
Drying certain products may take up to 24 hours. If you plan to use your granite countertops later on in the day, this may affect them. A few products dry quickly and provide complete protection within a few hours.
Lifespan
One last consideration is how long the chosen product will protect your granite. You may need to reapply for some products every couple of months. There are other products that provide long-lasting protection.
Ease of Use
Your product choice must be easy to apply and as quick as possible. Products that can be sprayed are ideal. Using these products is as simple as spraying them onto the desired product and letting them work.
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Durability
It is important to consider the durability of a sealer when choosing one for granite. Granite sealers should be both water and oil-resistant, as well as suitable for use both internally and externally. Make sure whichever sealer you choose will be durable enough.
Video: Cleaning, Sealing, & Polishing: 3 Essential Steps in Caring for Natural Stone
Frequently Asked Questions
Sealers tend to darken the stone just slightly, but they shouldn’t make a noticeable difference. There is usually no discernible difference between the two. As long as a sample of unfinished stone is not placed side-by-side with the counter for comparison, little difference will be noticed.
When applying the sealer for the first time, you may notice that there is a change in tone, but there is no need to worry. The finish should lighten within 48 hours of drying and curing. Surfaces with texture will show the effect more strongly, while smooth surfaces will not.
It’s true that some sealers can cause granite to appear wet. Their gloss is enhanced by adding a substance called a gloss enhancer. Reflecting light makes the stone’s surface shiny with a gloss enhancer. Brightening colors can also be achieved this way.
Sealers sometimes contain wetting agents as well. Wetting agents help spread out water evenly on surfaces. Wetting agents help the sealer create a damp appearance on granite when combined with gloss enhancers. The fact that not all sealants contain gloss enhancers or wetting agents is important to note.
You need to seal granite for varying amounts of time depending on the product that you use. The cure time for some products can reach 72 hours, but for others, there is no wait time at all. You will also have to factor in the area you are covering, the type of product, and the tools you are using. Application times can range from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on various factors.
Sealing granite with oil is not possible. People usually use oil for wood, but not stone. Besides dulling the look of granite, oil also promotes mold and mildew growth. Oil should be replaced with granite or stone sealers. Granite sealers are specially designed for sealing stones.
