We just installed new Montclair Danby Marble in our kitchen renovation. We are well versed in the staining/etching conversation and this isn’t a complaint about marble.

During install we observed the fabricator sealing with a 511 product. My (rudimentary) understanding of the impregnating sealer was that it seeped down and “filled” the porous space in the stone, making it more difficult for staining to occur.

We were told that if water beaded up, the seal was still good. Install was last week and water does bead when splashed/spilled. But if the water is left to sit for just a moment, it is obviously absorbed by the stone and a dark mark occurs. The dark does eventually dry (assuming its water) but this seems contrary to what I expected from the sealant, especially when brand new.

Is it possible the stone isn’t sealed “enough?” and just needs another coat? Should I expect water liquid to seep into stone virtually immediately, even when sealed? We read extensively about marble and I feel well informed in our decision but I am surprised about the way the sealant is performing.

Feedback appreciated!