Granite is one of the toughest materials available, and a granite table is very easy to maintain. Granite tables, counter tops and kitchen worktables are resistant to most stains and bacteria, and they do not damage easily, but sealing can protect granite surfaces and make them retain their beautiful appearance longer.
Granite countertops and tables should be sealed approximately once a year. The first sealing is often done by the manufacturer, before the table is in use. You can then perform the next sealing in 12 months. The sealing process is straightforward and you do not need to be a professional to do it.
Not all granites need to be sealed, and usually the lighter varieties should be sealed more frequently than darker colors (such as blue or black). Some of the dark granites might not need sealing at all, so check with the manufacturer to be sure. To see if the table needs sealing, drop a little water on the tabletop. If the granite absorbs the water in less than three to four minutes, you will probably need to seal it.
Use a quality sealer, available from the manufacturer or a well-equipped hardware store. Apply the product on the table or countertop with a clean cloth, and let it absorb for three to four minutes. When the first application is nearly dry, add some more sealer and rub it in with a clean and dry cloth. Focus on a small area at a time, and work your way step by step across the tabletop until you have covered the whole surface. Leave the sealer to dry for a minimum of two hours, and then apply another layer. Two layers are usually the necessary minimum, but read the product guidelines for exact instructions. Once the sealer is completely dry, you can check the result by once again placing a few drops of water on the surface. Wait for approximately half an hour, wipe the area with a cloth and see if there are any spots. If spots do not appear, the sealing was successful.
To keep a granite table clean, wash it regularly with warm soapy water, using only gentle soaps or specific detergents made for natural stones. Never use any acidic or abrasive materials and always rinse and dry the surface well after cleaning. Granite is one of the toughest and most stain resistant materials available, and only needs gentle cleaning. You can also polish a granite countertop every now and then, using a special granite polisher.
