Mastering the Art of Granite Polishing

Granite stands as a favored material in many homes, gracing kitchens, bathrooms, and foyers alike with its durable and stunningly elegant presence. Elevate its inherent beauty and ensure its lasting allure by incorporating regular polishing and protective measures into your maintenance routine.

Selecting a suitable polish for granite is crucial to avoid potential damage. Opt for products specifically formulated for granite and steer clear of harsh chemicals like ammonia, bleach, or vinegar. Consider factors such as wet or dry polish options, keeping in mind that dry powder mixes may offer better scratch removal and cost-effectiveness.

Begin by Cleansing the Granite Surface

Revitalize Your Granite with Proper Polishing

Ensure a Spotless Finish by Thoroughly Drying the Granite

Achieve a Flawless Shine with a Dry Microfiber Towel

Assessing the Need for Granite Resealing

Combine rubbing alcohol, dish soap, and water in a spray bottle. Pour ¹⁄₄ cup (59 mL) of rubbing alcohol into a 16 oz (450 g) bottle, then add a few drops of dish soap. Fill the remainder of the bottle with water. Shake thoroughly to mix.

• Opt for a dish soap without antibacterial additives, which can cause streaks on the granite's surface.
• Alternatively, substitute the dish soap with castile soap for a more eco-friendly option.
• Store your spray bottle at room temperature. It should remain effective for 1 to 2 months.

Apply the polish onto your granite surface. Ensure you've wiped away any spills or sticky residue using a damp cloth before spraying, as this enhances the effectiveness of the polish.

Thoroughly dry using a clean towel. There's no need to rinse with water; simply buff the area with a soft microfiber towel, ensuring no excess cleaner is left on the granite.

Shape the edges using a power sander. Employ a 40 or 60 grit sandpaper disc to level the edges. If the edges only require slight shaping, opt for a finer grit sandpaper such as 120 or 150.

• Always wear a dust mask and safety goggles for protection while operating a power sander.

Cleanse the edges with a moistened cloth. This step removes any remnants or particles left behind from sanding.

Refine the edges with a finer grit sandpaper. After shaping the edges, utilize a small 600 grit sandpaper to add final touches and smooth the texture.

Administer polishing spray onto the granite surface. Utilize a microfiber towel to buff the surface and aid in drying. Granite typically requires at least 12 hours to dry completely.

Protect the edges with a sealant. This action safeguards the granite and simplifies cleaning. When sealing granite, bear in mind that the edges often necessitate 2 applications of sealant.

Ensure your granite is sealed annually. Unsealed stone is more prone to staining. For areas that see heavy use or frequent exposure to water (such as around sinks), enlist a professional to reseal the granite once a year.

• Sealant in low-traffic areas can endure up to 10 years with proper care.

Utilize coasters or placemats for food and beverages. Allowing food containing dyes or oils to linger on granite often results in stains. Always utilize a cutting board while cooking, rather than placing food directly on the countertop.

• Heat can also damage granite, so refrain from placing hot pots or pans directly on the surface. Employ a trivet or hot pad instead.
• If your space features granite flooring, consider placing rugs to minimize the abrasion caused by foot traffic.

Regularly wipe down granite surfaces. While it's unnecessary to use a cleaner on your stone daily, a quick wipe with a dry cloth can eliminate grime and spills, preventing permanent stains or scratches.

• Additionally, vacuum floors frequently, ensuring that the vacuum doesn't scrape or scratch the surface.

• Avoid using vinegar or citrus-based cleaners on granite. The acid in these solutions can degrade the sealant or cause discoloration.
• While granite floors can be cleaned or resealed, polishing them should be avoided. Polishing will create a slippery surface, increasing the risk of falls.