What is the deal with getting granite sealed?

We have had our granite counters for about a year now - and no one said anything to us about getting it sealed (I have only read it on here)

Does everyone with granite have to do this?

What does sealing the granite do?

What happens if you don't seal it?

Re: What is the deal with getting granite sealed?

I was told that granite should be sealed every six months to a year. You can do it yourself with products sold at Lowes or Home Depot. Because granite is naturally pourous, sealing it will prevent staining. Even water if not wiped up can leave a stain.

Hope this helps.

Re: What is the deal with getting granite sealed?

I posted this on snowprincess's thread about granite.

The granite company I dealt with said it really doesn't need to be sealed as long as you treat it properly. They seal it before they install it and as long as you don't use anything to break down the seal you will be fine.

They only used Glass Plus on their granite... nothing with ammonia (no traditional Windex, etc) as the ammonia breaks down the seal.

My MIL has had granite in her kitchen longer than most people (over 15 years), never had to get it sealed, and my FIL is in the kitchen design business.

I'd just be careful what you clean it with and what you place on it. You should be ok.

Re: What is the deal with getting granite sealed?

Thank you! I only use Glass Plus to clean my granite so maybe I'll be ok! I'll see how it holds up in the future!

Re: What is the deal with getting granite sealed?

Before I sealed my counter - things were staining it. Maybe the company I used didn't seal it first?

Re: What is the deal with getting granite sealed?

I was told I just need to clean with anything that does NOT have ammonia in it and to buy a cleaner that wipes on and use every 2 years.