This is one of the most common questions asked when purchasing a stone countertop. While not all countertops need to be sealed, natural stone countertops need to be protected because they have small channels or pores in the rock, which are typically filled with air. Without maintaining a seal, food or water can seep into the stone and leave stains. So, to fully answer the question, consider the following:
This is one of the most common questions asked when purchasing a stone countertop. While not all countertops need to be sealed, natural stone countertops need to be protected because they have small channels or pores in the rock, which are typically filled with air. Without maintaining a seal, food or water can seep into the stone and leave stains. So, to fully answer the question, consider the following:
Granite
Granite countertops are made of natural stone that requires a sealer to protect it against untimely spills and splashes. It is still best to wipe up spills promptly since continued exposure to acidic spills can cause etching or discoloration even when sealed.
Marble
While marble is a sturdy, beautiful stone, it is also quite porous. This means that it can absorb impurities from water and other liquids, so it requires sealing. Because marble is a calcium-based stone unlike granite, it is extremely susceptible to etching, so keep acidic or abrasive substances away from your marble countertops to keep them looking beautiful.
Dolomite
Dolomite is both less absorbent and less sensitive to acids than Marble. However, it is a natural stone that is porous and needs to be sealed to prevent staining. Although it performs better than real marble, it can still scratch and etch.
Quartz
This manufactured countertop is easy-to-clean and non-porous. Since it’s non-porous, it won’t stain and is not susceptible to etching. Quartz does not need sealing to protect it from stains, although it is still a good idea to wipe up spills promptly.
Quartzite
While this is a natural and porous material, it is much harder than granite and more resistant to scratches and etching. Quartzite does require sealing to prevent it from absorbing liquids that get spilled on its surface but is naturally more resistant to staining than either granite or marble.
UltraCompact/Porcelain
These new materials create the hardest and most stain-resistant countertops on the market. Because the slabs are fused under high heat and pressure, they are non-porous and will not stain or etch. As a result, they do not require sealing and are very low maintenance.
15 Year Sealer Included!
All StoneMark countertops that require sealing receive a 15-year sealer that chemically bonds to the stone allowing for its long-term protection. Sealant plays a vital role in keeping countertops clean, beautiful, and resistant to stains. If you’re not sure whether your stone countertops need sealing, here is a simple test to try. Sprinkle a few drops of water on your counter, then check to see whether the stone darkens and absorbs the water. If it absorbs the water in four minutes or less, the stone needs to be resealed..