Get matched with top buffing and polishing pros in Gibbon, NE

It depends on the material. Sandstone, slate, and granite can be slippery in wet weather. Applying a sealant to the stone can often stop it from absorbing moisture and may reduce the likelihood of slipping. If you're concerned about losing footing, a safer option might be bluestone or concrete.

You generally cannot change the color of the natural stone, such as making granite countertops darker or lighter. Some people claim that certain chemicals will lighten or darken granite, but those will damage the stone and not provide uniform, expected results, so it’s better not to try. Similarly, some people ask whether they can stain over granite. Granite is beloved for its stain-resistant finish, so you probably won’t get the best outcome if you try to stain over granite to make it darker.

Instead, consider honing, painting, or applying another material over the top of the granite to make it appear darker.

A water-based, low- or no-VOC sealer is typically a good choice for marble countertops. Choose a sealant that is certified safe for contact with food when applying to kitchen countertops. For high-traffic areas, look for formulas that have heat-resistant and acid-resistant features. While there are economical and convenient spray-on sealers, they don’t coat the surface as effectively as the ones you apply with a pad or brush. 

Use pH-neutral cleaners, avoid acidic substances, and reseal porous stones periodically to maintain their finish.