Stone accents, particularly granite, can lend a polished and refined appearance to your home. They require a basic level of maintenance, however, to function properly and stay clean and fresh in appearance. Applying a granite sealer is a highly recommended part of your granite care routine, because this will help the stone retain its glossy finish that is so characteristic. Granite countertops are one area where you may need to apply this, although granite floors and any other accents on your furniture could also benefit from a topcoat of sealer every now and then.

Experts recommend that you apply granite sealer ever six months. It should be cleaned on a more regular basis, however, about once a month or more often in the case of countertops that may see a heavy accumulation of unsanitary dirt and other materials. Although you may not see the sealant on the stone, this doesn’t mean that it’s not working. Proper sealer usage will ensure that your granite stays new in appearance throughout the years, without the need for constantly updating your stonework.

It’s important to first cleanse your granite surfaces properly before you apply any granite sealer, otherwise dirt could be embedded into the stone. There is a wide range of cleaners on the market today that are crafted from environmentally-friendly oils, which are the best choice for interior surfaces rather than harsh chemicals. It’s possible to purchase both the sealers and cleaners that are specifically formulated for granite at local hardware or kitchen stores. They are also available online from a variety of outlets that specialize in hardware and stone care. Some types of sealer will require a specific application product, so that is something to ask about if you are unsure. A regular rag or other polisher may work in most cases.

In most cases, all you need to do to effectively apply granite sealer is to pour the sealant into a spray bottle of your choice, rather than pouring it directly onto the stone. This ensures that it will be much less messy, and you can control the appointment that is applied onto your surface. After this you can wipe down the countertop or other granite surface to ensure that the sealant is evenly distributed. Let it dry for anywhere from two to four hours, depending on the thickness of the sealant, and then you will be ready to use the surface again. This process should be repeated every six months.