Granite has a reputation as a low-maintenance countertop material, and compared to marble or travertine it is. But granite is not maintenance-free — its sealer wears down over time just like any other stone, and once it does, the countertop becomes vulnerable to staining from the oils, wine, and sauces that pass through any kitchen.
Why Granite Sealer Wears Down
Granite's sealer works by filling the stone's microscopic pores so liquids sit on top instead of soaking in. Daily cleaning, scrubbing, and general wear gradually break this barrier down, and the wear happens faster in high-use areas like around the sink and stovetop.
The Water-Bead Test
Checking your granite's seal is simple: drop a few tablespoons of water on the surface and watch it for several minutes. If it stays beaded, the sealer is intact. If it spreads out and darkens the stone, the seal has worn through and it's time to reseal before a spill causes a permanent stain.
Typical Resealing Intervals
Most kitchen granite benefits from resealing every one to three years, though heavily used counters near sinks and cooktops may need it sooner. Bathroom granite, which sees less contact with staining substances, often goes longer between applications.
What Happens If Staining Sets In
Once oil, wine, or other liquids penetrate unsealed granite, the stain is below the surface and cannot simply be wiped away. Professional poultice treatments can often draw out embedded stains, but prevention through timely resealing is far less involved than stain removal after the fact. Diamond Stone Restoration checks sealer condition as part of every granite service visit.