Granite is prized for its durability, elegance, and resistance to wear. But even this tough natural stone needs a little help to stay protected—especially when it comes to stains, moisture, and bacteria. That’s where granite sealant comes in.
Whether your granite is brand-new or has been installed for years, it’s important to know whether the seal is still intact. At Fuller Granite Repair, we help Southern California homeowners and businesses maintain their granite surfaces, and one of the most common issues we see is sealant failure—often without the owner even realizing it.
Here’s how to tell if your granite needs resealing, what happens if it’s left unprotected, and how to keep it looking flawless for years to come.
What Does Granite Sealant Actually Do?
Granite is a porous material, meaning it can absorb liquids, oils, and other contaminants over time. A proper sealant acts as a protective barrier, helping to:
- Prevent water and oil stains
- Reduce the risk of bacterial growth
- Make cleaning easier
- Extend the life and beauty of the stone
Without it, even a simple kitchen spill can seep into the stone’s surface and leave behind discoloration or damage.
How to Test Your Granite Seal
Not sure if your granite is still sealed? There’s a simple test you can do at home:
The Water Drop Test
- Choose a small, inconspicuous area of the granite.
- Pour a few drops of water onto the surface.
- Wait 15–30 minutes.
If the water beads up and stays on the surface, your seal is still doing its job. If the water darkens the granite or absorbs into it, your seal has broken down and it’s time for resealing.
Bonus tip: Try the same test with cooking oil to see how resistant your granite is to grease stains—especially important in kitchens.
Signs Your Granite Needs Resealing
While the water drop test is the most direct method, there are other indicators that your granite may need professional resealing:
- Dark spots or water marks that don’t wipe away
- A dull, uneven finish despite regular cleaning
- Stubborn stains, especially from oils, wine, or acidic foods
- Increased sensitivity to cleaning products
At Fuller Granite Repair, we can assess your stone and recommend the right sealer based on the color, location, and usage of your granite.
How Often Should You Reseal Granite?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on the type of granite, the sealant used, and how heavily the surface is used. On average:
- Light-use areas (bathroom counters): every 2–3 years
- High-use areas (kitchen countertops): every 1–2 years
- Commercial surfaces or outdoor granite: may need more frequent attention
We recommend a professional evaluation annually to check for wear, etching, or moisture issues before they become permanent problems.
Why Professional Resealing Makes a Difference
While DIY sealers are available at hardware stores, they don’t offer the same protection—or durability—as a professional application. Our technicians at Fuller Granite Repair use industry-grade sealers and expert techniques to:
- Deep-clean the granite before application
- Apply the sealer evenly and effectively
- Ensure a streak-free, protected finish
- Match the sealer to your granite’s specific porosity and color
We also inspect for micro-cracks, chips, or wear that could compromise the seal and recommend appropriate repair or restoration options if needed.
Protect Your Investment with Proper Care
Granite adds beauty and value to any home or business—but only if it’s properly protected. If it’s been a few years since your surfaces were sealed, or if you’re noticing new stains or dullness, it may be time for a refresh.
Call Fuller Granite Repair today to schedule a granite inspection or resealing service. We’ll help restore your stone’s natural brilliance—and keep it protected for the long haul.