Do granite countertops need to be sealed?
Because natural stone is porous, it is recommended that a sealant be applied to the surface of the stone to help protect its natural properties. Most granite companies use surface sealants that they claim protect against staining by creating a barrier that sits on top of the stone, resisting substances from penetrating into the pores.
Some granites are more porous than others and do need to be sealed to prevent spills from seeping into the stone. However, all our granite countertops are sealed during the fabrication process and again upon installation. The rule of thumb is that when the water no longer beads up, it’s time to re-seal. That may vary from 1-5 years depending upon usage. The Sealant is available in a liquid form, easily available (we stock it too) and very easy to apply when required. A sealant consists of microscopic balls of silicone that attach themselves to the crevices inside the stone. Once they are attached to the stone, these balls become a permanent part of the stone and acts as shields when any kind of liquid lands on them and the same is not penetrated into the stone.