Natural stone is a beautiful, luxurious building material that offers warmth and style to kitchens, islands, bathrooms, dining areas, floors and more. It’s strong, durable and provides insulation from the elements. The nature of the stone, however, makes it susceptible to certain types of damage and staining if not properly protected and maintained. A stone sealer is a chemical coating that’s applied to stone surfaces to help them resist spills, water, oil, dirt and other common contaminants.

The best stone sealer is one that protects the stone from moisture, oils and dirt while preserving its appearance. This helps prevent damage like etching, dull spots and stains, and makes maintenance easier. A premium solvent-based stone sealer/impregnator is a great choice for providing maximum protection and stain resistance.

Top 5 Natural Stone Sealers to Protect Your Surfaces for Years

It’s important to note that there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach when selecting a stone sealer. Due to varying characteristics, like density, porosity and permeability, different types of natural stone require different sealers.

For example, some stone is highly absorbent and may require a penetrating sealer that soaks into the pores of the stone to create a barrier from within. Other stone is softer and may require a coating-type sealer that will adhere to the surface of the stone.

When applying a sealer, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s also wise to test the sealer on a small, out-of-the-way spot before applying it to the entire surface. Piling on too much can cause a sticky mess or leave behind a blotchy finish.