After years of use, granite countertops can often appear more dull and clouded than they did after being installed. But don’t worry, it’s not permanent! With the proper maintenance and care, your countertops will be back to their original shine in no time.
Why Does Dulling Occur?
Most granite goes through a polishing process during its manufacturing. Since these materials are raw from the earth, they need a considerable amount of buffing to get that shine they are known and loved for. But over time, that shine can get clouded by buildup on the surface and forgotten about.
Some examples of the build up that can occur on the surface are food debris, calcium deposits, grease, and soap residue that gradually accumulates over many years. So although the granite may appear dulled, it’s usually still shiny at its core but hidden by layers of use from over the years.
It’s also important to note that if your granite countertops are sealed, this sealant can wear off over time. When the seal is no longer protecting the surface of the stone, these layers of dullness can actually stain the stone. It’s crucial to ensure your stone is free of debris on its surface and sealed every so often to protect the surface for years of use to come.
Can I Restore My Granite’s Shine?
If no permanent damage has been done and the granite’s seal is still intact, then the original shine is possible to restore. Granite can be restored through several methods depending on the needs of the homeowner design and performance wise. Take the age of your stone into consideration. Newer stones can usually be restored on your own while older ones may need professional help to get back to the original shine.
There are plenty of granite-safe soap film removers on the market to choose from. For minor dulling, these products are a fantastic resource to take advantage of. For areas that are more difficult, try using a razor blade to lightly scrape off any residue that’s visible.
After scraping away any signs of dullness, it’s a good idea to apply a polishing powder to further bring out the granite’s shine. After this process, you’ll want to reseal your stone to ensure it’s fully protected against any damages.
Another option, although slightly more abrasive, is acetone or a stone scrub. These products can easily be applied on your own with a buffer or polisher. Again, resealing the stone once finished is a necessary step to keep your countertops looking and performing like new for years.
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