Granite and Marble countertops should be sealed after initial installation to remove long term risk of penetration into the stone of any caustic or staining agent. Our professional installation team will seal the stone for the second time after installation, and homeowners are advised to test and repeat the sealing process, if necessary.
Testing
To test whether your granite countertops are fully sealed, fill and empty a drinking glass with water. Turn the empty, yet wet drinking glass over and place the open end of it on the counter top. Wait for 5 minutes. Remove the glass, wait for 20 minutes, and wipe off the water. If you notice a ring left behind as a result of the water, you are required to reseal your countertop. If no ring is left behind as a result of the water, then your countertop is sealed.
Sealing
To reseal your countertop, perform the following steps:
Step one: Clear everything off of your countertop.
Step two: Fully clean your countertop.
Step three: Wait until the countertop is completely dry and the ring is no longer visible.
Step four: Pour 1 oz. of sealer every 6 feet, and spread it around with a paper towel to completely cover the countertop( sealants may be purchased at home hardware stores or us).
After completion of the above steps, wait a few hours and repeat the water testing process. You will have to repeat the sealing process until there are no rings left behind as a result of the testing process. Homeowners are advised to repeat the sealing process once every year for darker color granites and twice per year for lighter color granites.
General Day-to-Day Cleaning
For general day to day cleaning, we advise using a combination of neutral cleaning agents, such as anti-bacterial dishwashing detergent and water, or stone cleaning products available in stores. Avoid streaks and dullness, by buffing off the wet surface with a dry cloth. PleaseDO NOT use acidic, abrasive, wax, ammonia or bleach based household cleaners and sprays on either marble or granite.