How to Reseal Granite Countertops: Safe 8-Step DIY Guide

Granite countertops are beautiful, durable, and timeless — but they need proper care to stay that way. Because granite is naturally porous, liquids can seep in and cause stains if the surface isn’t sealed. That’s why resealing your countertops regularly is so important.

If your granite looks dull, absorbs water quickly, or shows dark spots after spills, it’s time to reseal. The good news? With the right products and method, resealing granite is simple and keeps your surface protected and streak-free.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to reseal granite countertops step by step, common mistakes to avoid, and how often resealing should be done.

Step-by-Step: How to Reseal Granite Countertops

1. Test if Your Granite Needs Resealing

Do the simple water drop test: sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface.

• If the water beads up → your seal is still working.
  
• If it soaks in and darkens the stone → it’s time to reseal.
  

👉 Before resealing, make sure to clean granite countertops without streaks so the sealer bonds properly.

2. Clean the Surface Thoroughly

Use a pH-neutral granite cleaner or a mild dish soap solution. Wipe in circular motions with a microfiber cloth. Remove all grease, streaks, and debris.

💡 Pro Tip: If you notice discoloration, check out how to remove stains from granite surfaces before sealing. Sealing over stains can lock them in permanently.

3. Choose the Right Granite Sealer

There are two main types:

• Penetrating (impregnating) sealers → absorb into the stone and protect from inside out (best for kitchens).
  
• Topical sealers → sit on the surface; provide shine but less durable.
  

👉 For long-lasting results, choose a penetrating sealer designed for natural stone countertops.

4. Apply the Sealer Evenly

Spray or pour the sealer onto the granite and spread it evenly with a clean cloth. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including edges.

5. Let the Sealer Absorb

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions — typically, let it sit for 15–20 minutes. This allows the sealer to soak into the pores of the granite.

6. Wipe Off Excess Sealer

Use a clean microfiber cloth to remove extra sealer before it dries. This prevents a hazy, streaky finish.

7. Buff for Shine

After wiping, buff the surface gently in circular motions. This step enhances the natural shine of granite.

8. Cure Time

Avoid placing heavy objects, cooking, or cleaning the surface for at least 24 hours. This ensures the sealer cures fully.

Mistakes to Avoid When Resealing Granite

Resealing granite is essential for protecting your countertops, but common errors can reduce effectiveness or cause surface issues. Avoid these mistakes:

1. Over-applying sealer → sticky, hazy film
   Using too much sealer can leave a residue that’s difficult to remove and creates streaks. Apply a thin, even coat following the manufacturer’s instructions.
   
2. Using the wrong type of sealer → kitchen vs. bathroom formulations
   Sealers are formulated differently depending on exposure to moisture, heat, and spills. Always choose a sealer designed for your countertop’s location.
   
3. Skipping cleaning beforehand → traps dirt and streaks
   Any dust, crumbs, or grease left on the surface will be sealed in, reducing the countertop’s shine and protection. Clean thoroughly before resealing.
   
4. Ignoring cure time → weakens protection
   Rushing the curing process prevents the sealer from fully bonding. Follow the recommended drying and curing times to ensure maximum durability.
   

💡 Pro Tip: Proper resealing extends the life of granite, maintains its shine, and prevents stains and water damage over time.

Sealing Granite Countertops Permanently: Is It Possible?

You cannot permanently seal granite countertops, but you can make the protection last a long time with the right granite sealer. While no product can permanently seal granite, some granite sealers last longer than others. The best way to ensure your granite sealer lasts is by properly stripping granite (if needed), cleaning the granite surface well, and applying multiple sealer coats. With the right maintenance, your granite countertops will stay resistant to stains and moisture for many years.

Here is the breakdown why you can’t seal granite countertops permanently: 

🔹 No sealer is truly permanent.

Granite is a natural stone, and while it’s durable, it is also porous to varying degrees. Sealers work by penetrating the stone and filling its pores, creating a protective barrier against stains and moisture. Over time, daily wear, cleaning, and exposure to liquids slowly erode that barrier.

🔹 Traditional sealers usually last 1–3 years, depending on the quality of the product, the porosity of your granite, and how heavily you use the countertop.

🔹 Advanced sealers (like fluoropolymer-based or some commercial-grade sealers) can last 5–15 years. These are often marketed as “long-lasting” or “lifetime” sealers, but they still need periodic inspection and may require reapplication.

🔹 “Permanent” sealers do exist in the sense that some professional-grade sealers chemically bond with the stone at a molecular level. However, even these can eventually degrade due to abrasion, cleaning agents, and natural wear.

How to Know if Granite Countertops Need Sealing

You can tell if granite countertops need sealing by performing a simple water drop test. Place a few drops of water on the surface of your granite countertop and wait for 15 minutes. If the water beads up, your granite sealer is still working. If the granite darkens or absorbs the water, it means your granite needs sealing.

Other signs granite countertops need resealing include dull spots, stains appearing more quickly, or areas near the sink looking darker after water contact. To keep your granite countertops protected, always check sealing once a year and reapply granite sealer coats when necessary.

How Often Should You Reseal Granite Countertops?

On average, granite should be resealed every 6–12 months. However, frequency depends on:

• Usage → high-traffic kitchens may need resealing twice a year.
  
• Stone type → lighter and more porous granites absorb faster.
  
• Sealer quality → premium penetrating sealers can last longer.
  

👉 For everyday care between resealing, follow our guide on daily granite cleaning and deep granite care.

FAQs About Resealing Granite

What type of sealer is best for granite countertops?
Penetrating sealers are generally best since they protect from the inside while preserving the natural look of stone.

Can I reseal granite myself, or should I hire a professional?
DIY resealing is effective if you follow the steps carefully. For large or high-end installations, professionals may be worth it.

How long does granite sealer last?
Most sealers last 6–12 months, but some premium options can protect for up to 3 years.

Does resealing granite make it shiny?
Resealing restores protection but doesn’t always add shine. For extra gloss, buff after sealing or use a polish designed for granite.

Wrapping Up: Next Steps in Granite Care

Now that your granite countertops are freshly sealed, keep the protection going with the right daily habits:

• Learn how to clean granite countertops without streaks so your surface always shines.
  
• Got stubborn spots? Here’s how to remove stains from granite surfaces before they become permanent.
  
• Build a routine with our daily granite cleaning and deep granite care guide for long-term maintenance.
  

👉 If you also have marble in your home, check out how to clean marble countertops without etching. Or zoom out and follow our step-by-step kitchen cleaning routine to keep your whole space spotless.