Granite countertops usually stand out because of their polished finish and rich color, but they don’t keep that look without regular care. One of the easiest steps to skip is sealing, and surprisingly, it’s one of the most important. We’ve seen what happens when sealing gets pushed off or forgotten, and it almost always leads to problems that could have been avoided.

Sealing helps lock out stains, adds a layer of protection, and keeps the countertop easier to clean day to day. Once that protective layer wears down, spills can soak in, crumbs get harder to wipe away, and the finish starts looking dull. Most countertop restoration jobs we see begin with areas that were left untreated for too long. Keeping granite sealed can save time, effort, and stress down the line.

Why Granite Needs Sealing

Granite might feel solid and heavy, but it still has small, natural holes that can pull in moisture and stains if left uncovered. Those little pores are why sealing matters in the first place. Even though the stone looks smooth, anything oil-based or acidic can slide right into the surface if it isn’t protected.

Think about all the things that land on a kitchen counter in a normal day. Here are just a few that can cause lasting stains when granite isn’t sealed properly:

• Orange juice

• Red wine

• Cooking oils

• Coffee or tea

• Tomato sauces

These liquids don’t just leave a mark on top. They can slip beneath the surface where they’re harder to get out. That’s where we usually see deeper discoloration or rough patches that no cleaner will touch. A sealant adds a layer that helps keep the countertop safe from those everyday spills and makes cleanups much easier. During our countertop services, we remove etch marks, polish to restore shine, deep clean to lift oils and grease, and finish with a penetrating sealer that does not leave residue behind.

Signs Your Countertop May Need Resealing

Sealing isn’t a one-time job. Over time, regular use, scrubbing, and cleaning products wear away the layer that protects the surface. Once that barrier disappears, the stone starts to take in more than it should. Not sure if your countertop is ready for a reseal? There are a few things to watch for:

• Water no longer beads up on the surface. Instead, it spreads or gets soaked in

• The stone looks darker when it’s damp, even after wiping

• Spills take effort to clean up and may leave shadowy marks

• The surface feels rough or patchy in certain spots

Any of these can be signs the seal is wearing off. When people wait too long between treatments, those once-smooth counters start to lose their shine, and stains stick around longer. That’s when simple sealing turns into full countertop restoration, which takes more work and time to do right.

What Happens When You Skip Sealing

A granite countertop without sealant is like carpet without stain protector. Damage doesn’t show right away, but once it starts, it spreads fast and doesn’t stop.

Some of the most common issues we see when sealing is skipped include:

• Deep stains that won’t lift no matter how much you wipe

• Dull or faded sections that look dirty even when clean

• Patches that feel rough to the touch

• Sticky or tricky spots where spills soaked in over time

These problems usually require more than just soap and water. Many of them need extra steps like polishing or specialty cleaning to return the stone to its original finish. This kind of countertop restoration gets more involved the longer the damage is left untreated. Keeping a regular sealing routine saves that headache entirely.

Sealing as Part of a Regular Cleaning Routine

The easiest way to protect granite is by including sealing in your normal care schedule. It doesn’t need to be done every month, but it’s not a one-and-done task either. Depending on how often your counters get used, resealing once or twice a year usually keeps things under control.

Staying consistent with a simple plan can keep the surface looking smooth and clean:

• Seal granite about every 6 to 12 months

• Wipe down with stone-safe, pH-neutral cleaners instead of harsh sprays

• Skip cleaners with acid or bleach that can break down the seal faster

• Dry spills quickly instead of letting them sit and soak

It doesn’t have to be a big production. Sealing and light polishing go hand in hand with basic upkeep. That extra care goes a long way in keeping your kitchen prep space clean, sturdy, and polished.

Long-Term Benefits of Ongoing Countertop Care

Keeping up with sealing and cleaning gives you more than a shiny finish. Granite that’s protected keeps its color, texture, and smooth feel over time. That helps your countertop look newer, even when it’s being used every day.

Here are a few simple benefits that come from regular sealing:

• Food prep areas stay easier to clean

• Spills are much less likely to stain when they don’t soak in

• The surface stays smoother and more pleasant to touch

• Countertop restoration gets pushed further down the road or avoided entirely

With a little care and consistency, granite doesn’t just last, it stays beautiful. Taking time to seal protects the stone, helps avoid serious problems, and keeps your kitchen feeling fresh every time you walk in.

When your granite surface starts to lose its shine or becomes more difficult to keep clean, regular care and occasional sealing can make a world of difference. Damage often builds up gradually, especially when sealing is skipped, but our team is here to help restore and protect your investment. At The Floor Maintenance Company, we have been in business for more than 20 years, helping homeowners and businesses throughout Orange County protect their stone and tile surfaces. For professional support, including full countertop restoration, contact The Floor Maintenance Company to schedule a visit and keep your surfaces looking their best.