Marble is a beautiful and elegant stone for countertops but it does require some maintenance to keep it looking its best. One of the most important steps is learning how to seal marble countertops. The sealing process helps protect the stone from stains and damage while also enhancing its natural beauty.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about sealing marble countertops including materials, application, and care.
Why Do Marble Countertops Need Sealing?
The main reason for sealing marble countertops is protection. Marble is a porous stone which means that liquids and staining agents can seep deep into the pores if not sealed. Over time, this can cause permanent discoloration. Sealing creates a protective barrier that prevents stains from being absorbed. It also helps repel water spots and makes cleaning easier. Some other key benefits of sealing marble countertops include:
- Protects against common household stains like wine, food, soap scum, etc.
- Enhances the natural color and luster of the stone.
- Makes the surface easier to clean by preventing dirt and grime from being absorbed.
- Helps prevent etching from acidic liquids like citrus juices.
- acts as a barrier against bacteria growth.
- Provides UV protection that prevents fading over time from sunlight exposure.
So in short, sealing is crucial for keeping marble countertops looking pristine and preventing damage to the stone. It forms a shield that allows for easier maintenance while showcasing the beauty of the material.
How Often Should You Seal Marble Countertops?
The frequency for resealing marble countertops will depend on the traffic and usage of the areas. As a general guideline, plan to reseal counters anywhere from once every 12-18 months for high traffic areas to every 2-3 years for less used spaces. Some signs that it’s time for a reseal include:
- Water or other liquids bead up slowly instead of sheeting off quickly.
- Stains are not released as easily during cleaning.
- The surface appears duller or lost some of its luster.
- Grease or soap scum is harder to remove.
It’s always best to do some spot testing if you’re unsure whether a reseal is needed. Apply a drop of water – if it’s absorbed within a few seconds, it’s time for a new layer of sealer. Regular resealing will keep your marble protected and looking great for many years to come. Never wait until damage appears to reseal.
Best Sealers For Marble Countertops
When learning how to seal marble countertops, selecting the right product is crucial. Here are some top sealers to consider:
Butcher’s Block Formula Sealer – Best Overall
Made specifically for food preparation surfaces, this natural plant-based formula from Howard Products is easy to apply and offers excellent stain resistance. It enhances the natural appearance of stone.
Rust-Oleum Countertop Transformations Sealer – Great Value
This two-part sealer kit revives faded or worn stone surfaces with a crystal clear layer of protection. An excellent affordable option.
TriNova Natural Stone Sealer – Best Natural Choice
Made with natural waxes and resins, this environmentally-friendly pick from TriNova offers protection without changing the look of the marble.
StoneTech BulletProof Sealer – Heavy Duty Protection
For high-traffic commercial areas or extra challenging environments, the StoneTech sealer provides supreme barrier defense against stains, water, chemicals and abrasion.
Aqua Mix Sealers Choice Gold – Luxury Sheen
This premium formula enhances the veining and polish in marble to a showroom shine. Great for a formal finished look.
Always do a test patch with any sealer first before treating the whole surface to ensure there are no undesirable reactions. Choosing a top-rated product customized for marble will make sealing much easier and more effective.
How to Seal Marble Countertops – The Process
Now that you know why and when sealing is needed, let’s cover the step-by-step process for how to seal marble countertops:
Clean the Surface Thoroughly
Begin by washing the entire marble area with a mild dish soap and water or specialized stone cleaner. This removes any existing sealers, dirt, grease or other residues. Rinse completely and allow to fully dry.
Inspect for Damage
Do a close visual inspection for any cracks, chips or worn areas. These will need repair before sealing. Fill with an epoxy or stone putty/filler per manufacturer instructions.
Etch the Marble if Needed
For new stone without an existing polish, etch the surface with a mild muriatic acid solution to open the pores. Rinse thoroughly afterwards. This prep step enhances sealer penetration.
Apply Sealer Evenly
Stir or shake the sealer container well. Apply using a paint roller, brush or dense foam applicator. Go with the grain in thin, even coats. Allow drying time in between according to product directions.
Buff Entire Surface
Once fully dry, buff the sealed area lightly with a soft dry cloth to remove any residue or excess sealer. This polishes the surface to a smoother finish.
Wait Before Use
Allow at least 12-24 hours of complete drying time before any water contact on the newly sealed marble countertops. Follow manufacturer cure instructions as well.
Proper preparation, application method and adequate drying are key for success when learning how to seal marble countertops thoroughly. Be patient, follow directions exactly and your counters will stay beautifully protected.
Tips For Sealing Marble Countertops
Here are some additional tips for getting top results when sealing marble:
- Work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves during application and buffing.
- For large surfaces, begin sealing from one end and work your way across in sections for easier handling.
- Use overlapping strokes and work sealer well into the grain to maximize absorption.
- Re-wet your applicator as needed if the sealer starts to dry out during application.
- Apply a second thin coat within 30 minutes if the first coat soaks in quickly.
- Avoid excess buildup in low traffic or exterior corners that don’t require as much protection.
- Consider using a sealer specifically formulated for counters used in food preparation areas.
- Periodically clean sealed stone with a mild soap and water or specialized cleanser.
- Immediately blot spills and don’t let stains set in before cleaning sealed marble surfaces.
Proper sealing technique along with following manufacturer cure time and reapplication guidelines will provide the best long-lasting protection for marble countertops.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sealing is an important part of marble countertop care and maintenance that helps protect this porous natural stone material. By understanding why sealing is needed, the best sealers to use, and following the step by step application process, homeowners can easily learn how to seal marble countertops themselves. With regular reapplication every 12-18 months, marble surfaces will stay pristine with only minimal cleaning required. Always start by cleaning thoroughly and allow full curing time for best sealer adhesion. With proper sealing and care, marble countertops will remain a stunning centerpiece in any kitchen or bathroom for years to come.
You can contact us at:
Email: sfmarbleangranite@gmail.com
Phone: 978-459-5822
SF Marble & Granite
755 Dutton St. Lowell, MA 01854
FAQs
What is the cost to seal marble countertops?
On average, plan to spend between $50-$150 to seal an average sized kitchen or bathroom countertop depending on sealer selected and area size. Reseals every 1-3 years will be less.
What do you need to seal marble countertops and honed stone?
There is no difference in sealing method, but honed stone will absorb more sealer due to its matte texture. Apply a little extra for best results.
How to seal marble naturally?
Minor cracks can be sealed if flushed with epoxy first. For deeper damage, consult a professional on repair options before sealing.
Which is better for marble – penetrating or film forming sealer?
Penetrating sealers are preferred as they don’t alter the natural look or polish of marble like some film-forming products can.
Can I use a natural sealer for cutting boards on marble countertops?
Yes, look for 100% natural food-safe sealers formulated for stone or wood food prep surfaces for both safety and effectiveness on marble kitchen islands or work surfaces.