The Porosity Spectrum
There is a myth that all granite needs sealing every 6 months. This is false. Over-sealing can actually lead to a hazy film building up on the surface. The need for sealing depends entirely on the stone's geology.
Dark vs. Light
Dense Stones (Absolute Black, Tan Brown): These are incredibly dense igneous rocks. They have very few open capillaries. Many of these stones naturally repel water and never need sealing. Applying sealer to them is a waste; it just sits on top and smears.
Porous Stones (Colonial White, Kashmir White, Ivory Brown): These lighter stones are more porous. They act like slow sponges. If red wine sits on an unsealed white granite for 30 minutes, it will leave a pink stain.
The Water Drop Test
Do this simple test every year:
1. Pour a tablespoon of water on the counter (in a high-use area).
2. Wait 10 minutes.
3. Wipe it away.
Result: If there is a dark patch where the water was, the stone absorbed it. You need to seal. If the spot looks unchanged, your current sealer is still working. Don't add more.
