To Seal or Not To Seal Tropical Brown

(West Salem, WI USA)

QUESTION:

We are purchasing Tropical Brown granite countertops (not installed yet). We've never had anything but laminate countertops until now. I have read about people having trouble with etching and hazy or discoloration issues with their countertops.

You mention that some granite does not need sealing. How do I know if mine needs sealing?

Have you heard of a product line called "Granite Gold"? I also have seen a product called "Perfect Counters". How do I know if a cleaner is good or will be harmful to my countertop over time?

ANSWER:

Tropical Brown is a very dense granite with low absorbency. Good choice! Granite does not etch. Marble, travertine, limestone and slate can etch or become discolored upon contact with acids... not granite, so you're safe there.

Tropical brown is very stain-resistant (nearly stain-proof really) and almost certainly will not need sealing and would just create a problem with it drying on the surface creating a dull haze if you tried to apply it.

Accordingly, you should never apply a granite sealer "just to be safe." You should only apply it if testing shows that it should be sealed.

This is the case with any stone. Even though we know of many stones that don't need sealing, it is a natural product and variations can and do exist.

So, test your granite and you'll get a definitive answer for yourself whether or not to seal it. But I'll tell you that this is one variety/color of granite that I'd be surprised if it needed or could be sealed.

Regarding granite countertop care products....

There are many out there and I have use plenty, but still there are some I haven't used or heard of. Many new "granite cleaners" have popped onto the market in the last few years as stone countertops and floors have become so common.

Some are good and some are mediocre to worthless.

The products I think are the very best and recommend with complete confidence are found at our Stone Care Center.

Good Luck,
Ryan

P.S. Get all the facts, answers, explanations and simple solutions with step-by-step instructions for any issue, problem or question with our Granite & Marble Maintenance Manuals.

I highly recommend Stone Care Pro Products to maintain all your marble, stone and granite countertops and floors in optimal condition. I've used other good products (Stone Tech, Miracle, MB) but found Stone Care Pro is the most reliable and effective and cheaper too!