Sealing Granite: Red Dragon & Labrador Antique

by Chad
(Houston, Texas)

QUESTION:

I have a slab of red dragon and a slab of labrador antique. They are both countertops and will be used for food preparation. Are these two able to be sealed and what is the best type of sealer? Should I use an impregnator or just a simple sealer?

I have also installed a tumbled travertine backsplash and would like to enhance and seal the surface of these. What is the best product for this type of installation that will help resist any stains?

ANSWER:

You almost certainly will not have to seal the Labrador antique... probably will on the red dragon, but you should water test both so you get a definitive answer.

Many varieties are known to be too dense for sealers and some may or may not take a granite sealer. It's a natural product, so no absolutes. That's why testing is always the way to answer that question.

I recommend STONE SENTRY or SenGuard Sealers. Stone Sentry is excellent. SenGuard forms permanent bonds and will likely never need another application... much more expensive though.

Just FYI... and impregnating sealer is the only type you want to use vs. a topical sealer.

Also, no worries for food prep. Once the sealer has evaporated and cured the molecules left behind are inert.

For the backsplash I'd use SCP-Enhance & Seal.

The ENHANCE & SEAL will darken the color and give a bit of sheen. It will also provide some sealing properties. Not too much a risk of staining on a backsplash, but you may want to also apply STONE SENTRY after the Enhancer to get the best protection.

Apply the Enhancer to a sample tile and then perform the water test and do the same with oil. If neither absorbs in 5-10 minutes, then most likely you'll be alright without the Stone SENTRY.

Good Luck,
Ryan

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