Why Marble Needs to Be Sealed

Why You Should Seal Marble

All types of natural stone can benefit from regular sealing,and it's especially important with marble floors and countertops. Marble is a highly acid-sensitive stone that's also very porous, which means it readily absorbs liquids. While marble may be considered more high maintenance than other types of stone like granite, regular sealing is a simple and safe way to reduce the risk of stains and damage. Here's why it's worthwhile to occasionally apply a stone-safe marble and Granite Sealer to your marble countertops or floors

Marble Is Susceptible to Stains

Marble is a porous stone that easily absorbs liquids and staining agents like oil, juice, wine, and coffee, all of which can seep deep into the stone. Once staining agents are absorbed, it can be difficult to lift the stain, and they tend to be very visible with marble's light shades. Sealing is an effective way to increase the stain resistance of marble. A sealant works by sealing pores in the stone to repel liquids and staining agents before they can seep into the stone surface. While a sealant is an effective way to prevent stains, keep in mind it doesn't necessarily prevent etch marks if acidic liquids are left to sit on the countertop. Etching is a form of damage that occurs when the calcium carbonate in marble reacts with acidic compounds like lemon juice, coffee, and tomato sauce. Etch marks aren't true stains. They resemble dull whitish or clear marks on the surface that can't be lifted but may be able to be removed professionally.

Sealing Reduces Hard Water Stains

Marble is a timeless addition to the bathroom, but it can quickly develop hard water deposits and water marks that can transform the beautiful stone tile into an eyesore. Sealing the stone tile in your bathtub or shower surround can dramatically reduce water marks and hard water deposits by making the surface of the stone too slick for deposits to form.

Regular Sealing Maintains the Stone's Luster

Marble offers a timeless beauty with brilliant whites and rich grays that seamlessly pair with any type of décor. Regular cleaning with a stone-safe cleaner, then sealing the stone can preserve its natural luster and beauty. The best way to maintain the luster of marble and other types of natural stone is to follow sealing with polishing. Just make sure you don’t polish stone floors, as they can become dangerously slippery.

Sealing Stone Is Easy

There's no reason not to seal your marble occasionally because the process is easy and doesn't take too much time. Start by covering or taping off areas that won't be sealed, like fixtures. Thoroughly clean the surface of your marble with a stone-safe cleaner like Granite Gold Daily Cleaner®, then spray Granite Gold Sealer® directly onto the surface, working in small 3-foot sections and buffing into the stone with a lint-free cloth until the surface is dry. Don't let the sealer dry on the surface or it can leave hazing.

If you have any further questions about caring for marble or other types of natural stone such as granite, travertine, or slate, reach out to the Stone Care Experts at Granite Gold®. Call 1-800-475-STONE (7866) to speak with one of our knowledgeable representatives. You can also follow our Facebook page for additional tips.