Granite sealers are probably not only one of the most effective ways for a person to protect their granite countertops but is also one of the most misunderstood products available. Far too many people either think these products can do more than what they can do or they think they’re not as effective as they are. We’re not sure if this is a failing of the marketing campaigns of most granite sealers, or if there’s just too much bad information circulating on the Internet. Regardless, we’re going to take a few moments of our time and set the record straight, not just on granite sealers but also on granite countertops, so everyone will know what to expect when they’re purchasing a great granite sealer.
Myths About Granite
Myth #1: Granite Sealers Shield The Countertop
One of the most pervasive myths circulating is that granite sealers provide an impenetrable shield to the granite. A shield that will prevent the stone from being damaged or stained in any way. Unfortunately, this ridiculous myth simply isn’t true. Sealed granite can still be damaged and stained. They can still suffer chemical damage and they can still stain—although they do slow the rate at which the counter is stained.
Myth #2: Granite Isn’t Suitable For Food
Now let’s turn our attention to granite countertops and talk about one of the most pervasive myths about them—the myth that they can’t be used for food preparation. According to some “experts” granite isn’t suitable for food preparation because it’s porous and the pores allow bacteria to build it. Fortunately, that’s so untrue it’s almost laughable. Granite countertops don’t build-up bacteria any more than any other countertop.
Myth #3: Granite Emits Radon
Another myth that seems to be very common nowadays is that granite emits cancer-causing radon. This is completely untrue as well and the EPA has found no evidence whatsoever that granite releases radon that’s unsafe to human health. If it was unsafe, it would’ve already been pulled from the market by now.
Myth #4: Granite Stains Easily
Another myth that’s been around forever is that granite stains easily. This isn’t true. Sure, if liquids are left on the surface for a long period of time, it’s going to stain the granite even if it’s been sealed. This is especially true of cooking oils. However, if a person cleans up spill promptly, they should have no worries about their granite staining. Particularly if they’re using a quality granite sealer.
Myth #5: Granite Is Expensive
Some people believe that granite is expensive—perhaps too expensive for them to afford. However, that’s not really true. While granite has historically been priced higher than other countertops, prices have come down in recent years. In fact, granite pricing is quite competitive when compared against other decorative stone options.
Myth #6: Granite Loses Its Shine Over Time
The myth that granite loses its shine has been around for a long time. Fortunately, it’s simply not true. While granite does seem to dull with use if a person uses a granite polish they can quickly revive it to its former glory. If you don’t believe us, then try it out for yourself. Dull granite is simply granite that hasn’t been properly polished and it is also granite that can be brought back to life.
Myth #7: It’s Hard To Maintain Granite
The last myth that we want to address is that granite is difficult to maintain. That it takes a lot of hard work and elbow grease to keep it looking its best. That simply isn’t true. All that has to be done is to properly clean it, seal it and polish it and it will literally last you a lifetime.
Maintaining Your Granite
Now that we’ve covered some of the myths surrounding granite and granite sealers, we’d like to turn our attention to helping our readers maintain their granite. As we said when we addressed myth #7, granite isn’t all that difficult to maintain as long as people are conscientious about it and make sure they show it the respect it deserves. Below are some of the tips for keeping granite looking good for its entire life.
Step One: Avoid Acidic Or Abrasive Cleaners
One of the quickest ways of etching or discoloring your granite is to use acidic or abrasive cleaning products. These products shouldn’t be used at all. A better solution is to use a product specifically designed for cleaning granite. Some of the products include Granite Gold Daily Cleaner, Hope’s Perfect Granite, and Rock Doctor Granite Cleaner.
Step Two: Don’t Place Hot Pans On Your Granite Countertops
It’s also important for people to not set hot pots or pans on their countertops. Doing so can cause discoloration in the granite or may even cause it to crack. If you must place hot pots or pans on the counter, then be sure to use a trivet or a mat to protect the granite from the heat.
Step Three: Don’t Apply Pressure To The Granite
When we say that you shouldn’t apply pressure to the granite, what we mean is that you shouldn’t sit on, stand on or kneel on your granite countertops. Doing so can result in cracking or breaking.
Step Four: Wipe Up Messes Promptly
It’s extremely important for messes to be promptly sealed. Although it’s highly unlikely that a sealed granite countertop is going to be stained by coffee or tea stains, you still shouldn’t allow them to sit overnight. Clean up all messes promptly and you won’t ever have to worry about your granite staining.
Step Five: Don’t Forget The Granite Polish
It’s also important for a person to polish their granite regularly. There are a ton of great granite polishing products including Granite Gold, MB Stone Care Granite Polish, and Rock Doctor Granite Polish. Anyone of these products will do a great job of polishing their granite.
Step Six: Seal Your Granite
The final step to keeping your granite fresh, shiny, and nice-looking is to make sure that it’s sealed. And once it’s been sealed, re-seal it as necessary. If you do so, then your granite will last you a lifetime.
