Granite countertops usually last at least 10-20 years. However, from time to time things happen. It is part of life.
That is why we created this nifty little guide to help you repair your granite countertop if something does go wrong.
While stuff happens, here are a few things you can do to prevent cracks and damage to your granite countertop.
Granite is a porous stone. It requires an annual seal to ensure its long-term durability. If you do not seal it at least once every year or two, bacteria seeps into the stone. That makes it unhealthy for you.
Also, it could weaken the stone when water and other liquids get into the porous rock.
Many of the cleaning products consumers use to damage the seal over time, it is essential to know which cleaners to use.
Daily cleanings of your granite counter require just hot water. You can then use special granite cleaner when you do weekly and monthly cleanings of your granite countertop.
Often granite countertops get etch marks. Larger ones might require a professional. However, homeowners can usually fix smaller marks left by a lemon or tomato.
Start by cleaning the affected area. You can use a little stone soap, but the majority will be water. It should wipe away the dirt and scum. Then dry the area thoroughly.
Next, apply granite polishing powder to the area and buffer it with a variable speed electric drill on a low-speed setting. Keep the granite powder on the stone as you buff it, and then clean it off afterward.
Often if you do not clean your granite countertops correctly, over time the stone dulls. You might need to polish the granite using a countertop polish or even refinish the countertop.
To be clear, the shine on the stone comes from the finish. If the polish does not work, then you might need to resurface your granite countertop or even a new countertop installation.
Maybe it’s time to change the look of your kitchen? Our Thunder Wave granite countertop might help you decide.
Hairline cracks happen naturally in the granite countertops. They are tiny, almost invisible cracks that do not affect the cleaning, use, or quality of your counter.
Separated cracks, on the other hand, are visible. They can get worse if you do nothing. Often you can repair a separated crack in the granite countertop by filling in the gaps with an epoxy glue that matches the color of the stone.
Some granite professionals even use some of the granite dust from where the break occurs to color the epoxy glue.
If you do it yourself, then make sure you clean the area before applying the glue.
Also, put masking tape around the area to ensure you do not apply glue to the surrounding granite.
Once you glue the separate cracks, re-polish the surface to get the area to match the rest of the counter. Stone polishing is required for guests to not see the cracks.
But if you still have problems or need assistance with this process, it may be worth your time to invest in a new countertop. You can reach out to Granite Selection at 888-906-3317 for a free consultation today.
Sometimes the cracks in the granite happen on the edges where there is less support for the stone. If this happened to you, then you need to follow the instructions above to repair the crack.
Then you need to do one more item. Support the broken piece with a metal L-shaped bracket that holds the broken pieces’ weight during and after the repair.
A piece of advice from our experts on what to do with your old granite countertop.
With the proper care and maintenance, your granite countertops can last a long time. In some cases, we recommend opting for a new granite countertop installation versus fixing a counter with a significant number of chips. Plus, opting for a new countertop gives you a chance to modernize your space and refresh your kitchen.
Contact us today at Granite Selection to find out how we can help you with your granite counter.
Do you have questions about granite or quartz countertops in Chicago?
Request a free consultation or visit our office.
