Sealing Granite Countertops: How to Seal Your Natural Stone

Stone Dimensions
2 minutes ago
2 min read

granite kitchen countertops, granite sealer guide graphic

Granite and all natural stone countertops are beautiful and durable, but they are porous, which means liquids can soak in and cause stains if they are not sealed. Sealing your countertops is one of the easiest ways to protect your investment and keep your stone looking fresh for years.

This guide makes it simple and actionable, even if you are new to natural stone care.

Do All Natural Stone Countertops Need to Be Sealed?

Yes. Granite, marble, quartzite, limestone, and travertine all need sealing.

Sealing your countertops:

• Reduces liquid absorption

• Prevents stains and discoloration

• Makes cleaning easier

• Protects your stone for the long term

The only difference between stone types is how often they need to be resealed.

Quick Way to Check If Your Granite Countertops Need Sealing

The easiest test is the water drop test:

Place a few drops of water on your countertop.
Wait 10 to 15 minutes.
Wipe the water away.

If the water beads up, your stone is still sealed.
If the water soaks in and darkens the stone, it is time to reseal.

Side by side photo showing the water drop test on natural stone countertops. On the left, a water drop is soaking into the stone, indicating the countertop needs to be sealed. On the right, the water drop is beaded on the surface, showing the stone is properly sealed and does not need resealing.

This quick test gives you an instant answer without any special tools.

How to Seal Your Countertops

Sealing can be done easily:

Clean the countertop thoroughly
Apply a penetrating stone sealer evenly
Let it absorb for the recommended time
Wipe away any excess

We encourage homeowners to seal their countertops themselves. It is easy to do and protects your countertops from stains, spills, and everyday wear.

For best results, we recommend Stone Pro Ultimate Impregnating Sealer, available on Amazon.

Why You Should Not Skip Sealing

If granite or natural stone is left unsealed:

• Liquids can penetrate and cause permanent stains

• Food and oils can darken the surface

• Bacteria can settle in unsealed pores

• Stone can look dull or uneven over time

Sealing is the simplest preventative step you can take to protect your countertops.

Final Tip

Viscon white granite countertops in a bathroom on Oconomowoc Lake.

The next time you are unsure whether your granite or natural stone needs sealing, grab some water and do the water drop test. It takes a few minutes and gives you an immediate answer. Then, use a high-quality sealer like the one linked above to keep your countertops beautiful and protected for years.

Visit our Pewaukee showroom to explore our most popular granite colors in person and view full slabs before fabrication. Our team is here to help you choose the right granite countertop for your space, style, and lifestyle.