Restoring the Factory Shine of Your Granite Countertops

You probably bought granite countertops because you expected them to last forever. It’s a hardy stone, right? Granite countertop installation pros will tell you that granite itself is more beautiful than it is durable, but it’s the treatment it receives that makes it last. 

Of course, this assumes that you’ll keep up with regular cleanings and resealings of the surface to keep it non-porous. If not, what was supposed to be the most impressive component of your bathroom design may actually look dull and faded. Is it time for another bathroom remodel?

Actually, no. Your granite countertops can be saved! The good news is that you can actually restore the factory shine of granite surfaces so they look as good as they did when they were first installed in all their brilliant, crystalline beauty. Here’s what you need to know about restoring your granite bathroom countertops, and how to better care for them in the future.

Notes about Granite

Natural granite is a hard, strong stone, mined from under the earth after withstanding incredible pressure and heat. But granite isn’t invincible. It has weaknesses that can cause etching — fade marks that often resemble water rings — and dulling. 

So what causes all this damage? Granite is highly susceptible to chemical damage, especially by acidic substances. Harsh cleaning products like bleach, and other chemicals you may use in your bathroom like nail polish remover and certain soaps can also affect the look of granite. 

Removing Film

The dull, whitish layer you may see building up on your granite surfaces does not spell doom for your countertops. Soap can leave a film on your countertops, especially if you use ordinary soap to try to clean bathroom granite. This is reparable, though. Simply get a high-quality soap scum and mineral remover and follow its directions closely. You should see the original shine come through.

Resealing

Granite countertops must be resealed from time to time because the protective, pore-sealing surface applied when your granite is installed doesn’t last forever. Daily wear and tear files down the seal and even makes holes in it. Depending on how often you use your bathroom, you should reseal once a year (for your go-to bath) or twice a year (for guest baths and rarely used powder rooms). 

Resealing granite prevents permanent damage to the stone and restores the original, factory shine. There are many sealers to choose from, but your granite countertops retailer should recommend the best product for your exact variety of stone.

Remove Etching

Etching can make granite and marble appear dull. Many people who see etching say it looks like permanent water rings in stone. In reality, it’s caused by acids, not simple water.

You can invest in polishing powder to help reverse the signs of etching. Make sure that you buy a powder that’s designed specifically for natural stone surfaces. 

For Damaged Surfaces

If you’ve tried all of the above solutions and you feel that your granite surfaces are still underwhelming, try refinishing. Also known as resurfacing, this is the process by which a stone surface professional will apply several layers of an acrylic or epoxy coating. This will change the visible surface of the countertops to make them seem brand new again.

Legacy Granite Countertops offers the best varieties of granite countertops in Cumming, GA, at hard-to-beat prices. Visit legacygranitecountertops.com to learn more about how you can upgrade your bathroom design. In Cumming, GA, with Legacy Granite Countertops by your side, you don’t have to worry about a lack of options or hefty prices. Find the perfect countertops for your home and use this guide to keep them looking beautiful for years to come!