There are many reasons to install granite countertops in your kitchen. Granite is a beautiful and durable material that holds up well over the years. It also comes in a variety of colors and styles, so it’s easy to find one that matches your kitchen. However, it needs to be cared for properly to last as long as possible. Here’s what you need to know about sealing your granite countertops in Alpharetta. Prevent Stains Granite is a porous material, which means that liquids can seep into it and cause stains that are difficult or impossible to remove. To counteract this problem, seal your counters regularly with a water-based or solvent-based sealer. This will keep liquids from staining your counters and can even give your counters a bright, revitalized appearance. Get Rid of Germs Sealing your countertops not only keeps out stains, it can also help prevent germs from taking root in your kitchen. Just like liquids, bacteria can hide in the porous surface of granite and become difficult to remove. Once present, they can multiply rapidly and cause a number of diseases. Sealing your counters lets you easily wipe away bacteria and other pathogens. How Often to Seal How often you need to apply a new coat of sealant depends on your countertops. Test them once a year by leaving a small amount of water or another liquid on an out-of-the-way part of your counter. If it doesn’t stain the stone after 5-10 minutes, your counters don’t need to be sealed. However, if the granite changes color, it’s a sign that you need to apply new sealant. Although some granite can go more than a decade before it needs to be sealed again, on average, sealant needs to be applied every 2 or 3 years. Clean and dry the counter thoroughly before applying the sealant with a soft cloth. Work in small sections and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Daily Care Taking care of your counters on a daily basis can help them last longer and preserve the sealant for as long as possible. Try to avoid putting anything wet or hot directly on your counters. Wipe off liquids as quickly as possible and clean your counters regularly. Never use harsh cleaning products on your granite countertops in Alpharetta, since these may damage the sealant. By following these steps, you should be able to enjoy your granite countertops for years to come.
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