Have you noticed your once-gleaming granite countertops starting to lose their lustre and shine?
Over time, granite surfaces can become dull and lacklustre due to a variety of factors such as daily wear and tear, improper cleaning techniques, and exposure to harsh chemicals.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to restore the brilliance of your granite countertops. From essential considerations to step-by-step instructions and handy tips, we’ve got you covered.
With the growing interest in home improvement and sustainable living, more and more homeowners are looking for ways to rejuvenate their existing fixtures rather than replace them entirely.
And when it comes to kitchen countertops, granite remains a popular choice for its durability, elegance, and timeless appeal.
Whether your countertops have lost their shine due to years of use or you’ve recently moved into a new home with lacklustre granite surfaces, these tried-and-tested techniques will help you bring back the brilliance of your kitchen space.
Ready to say goodbye to dull countertops and hello to a kitchen that sparkles?
Read on to find out how.
Granite Countertop Restoration Explained
Transforming dull granite countertops into radiant focal points requires a combination of expertise, patience, and the right tools.
Granite countertop restoration is a service aimed at reviving the natural beauty of granite surfaces that have lost their shine over time.
This process involves cleaning, polishing, and sealing the granite to enhance its appearance and protect it from future damage.
Granite countertop restoration breathes new life into worn-out countertops, restoring their original lustre and elegance.
This can significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen or bathroom, making them more inviting spaces for both residents and guests.
By restoring rather than replacing your granite countertops, you can save both time and money while reducing waste—a win-win for your budget and the environment.
Granite countertop restoration also helps to prolong the lifespan of your countertops by addressing minor imperfections and preventing further deterioration.
Removing stains, scratches, and etch marks, not only improves the appearance of the surface but also enhances its durability and longevity. This means fewer repairs and replacements down the line, translating to long-term cost savings for homeowners.
Granite Cleaning Checklist: Here’s What You’ll Need
- Before diving into the restoration process, it’s crucial to evaluate your home’s specific needs and requirements to ensure a successful outcome.
Start by assessing the condition of your granite countertops and identifying any areas that require attention, such as stains, scratches, or dull spots.
Consider your aesthetic preferences and desired level of restoration to determine the scope of work.
- Now, take stock of the tools and resources needed to complete the restoration project effectively.
While some basic supplies like soft cloths, mild cleaners, and polishing compounds may be readily available, certain specialised tools and equipment may be required for more extensive restoration tasks.
These could include diamond polishing pads, electric polishers, and sealants tailored to granite surfaces.
- Consider the time and effort required to undertake the restoration process (and be realistic about your DIY skills and available time).
Depending on the extent of damage and the size of the countertops, restoration projects can range from simple touch-ups to more comprehensive refinishing efforts.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance if you’re looking to enjoy expertly cleaned granite surfaces without lifting a finger.
- Take into account any unique features or challenges posed by your property that may impact the restoration process.
Factors such as the layout of your kitchen or bathroom, access to water and electricity, and the presence of surrounding fixtures or appliances can all influence the approach to countertop restoration.
By carefully considering these factors upfront, you can streamline the restoration process and minimise potential complications along the way.
Don’t forget to factor in your budget and overall renovation goals when planning your countertop restoration project.
Essential Components for Granite Countertop Restoration
Cleaning Solutions
Start by selecting a gentle yet effective cleaner specifically formulated for granite surfaces. Look for pH-balanced, non-abrasive cleaners that remove dirt, grease, and stains without dulling the stone.
Brands like MB Stonecare offer eco-friendly granite cleaners that are safe for daily use. Granite Warehouse offers the full range of MB Stonecare products.
Soft Cloths and Sponges
Opt for soft, lint-free cloths and non-abrasive sponges to avoid scratching the granite surface during cleaning and polishing. Microfibre cloths are particularly effective for buffing and shining granite countertops without leaving streaks.
Polishing Sprays
Choose a premium polishing compound designed specifically for granite countertops to restore their natural shine and smoothness.
There are some polishes that only require buffing on with a microfibre which will achieve quite a considerable improvement in shine as a starter.
MB Stonecare’s MB13 Stone Polish is a wonderful product that can be sprayed on and buffed up by hand. It penetrates, enhances, protects and smooths your granite surface to leave it looking like new.
It also leaves a shield that repels water, reduces finger marks and makes routine cleaning easier.
Electric Polisher and polishing compounds
For larger or more extensive restoration projects, investing in an electric polisher can significantly streamline the polishing process and deliver more consistent results.
Look for variable-speed polishers with a soft start feature to prevent splattering and ensure precise control.
Quality polishing creams like MB Stonecare MB20 are highly recommended for use with an electric polisher to achieve professional results.
These are more of a professional use product so you will need some knowledge on how to use polishing tools. However, done right they can increase the gloss of your benchtop considerably and more permanently than the spray-on buff-off products.
Sealants
Finish the restoration process by applying a high-quality sealer to protect the newly polished granite surface from stains, spills, and moisture damage.
Choose a penetrating sealer specifically formulated for natural stone countertops, preferably one with a long-lasting formula that provides durable protection. MB Stonecare MB24 Barrier is a great quality product for this purpose.
Step-by-Step Guide to Granite Countertop Restoration
Preparation
Begin by clearing the countertop of any objects or debris, ensuring a clean and clutter-free work surface. Protect surrounding areas with drop cloths or masking tape to prevent accidental damage during the restoration process.
Cleaning
Spray on neat or dilute the chosen granite cleaner with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it generously to the countertop surface.
Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the granite, focusing on areas with stains or buildup. Dry off the surface using a microfibre cloth.
If your benchtop only needs a bit more attention then spray on the hand buff polish and buff well with a microfibre.
Polishing
If your benchtop needs more extensive work, then attach a white glomesh polishing pad to the electric polisher and set it to a low speed to avoid overheating or damaging the granite surface.
Starting from one corner of the countertop, apply polishing cream and work in small, overlapping sections, applying even pressure.
Repeat this process until the entire countertop has been polished to your satisfaction, periodically adding extra polish as required and slowly speeding up towards the final pass.
Sealing
Once the countertop is polished to perfection, allow it to dry completely before applying a granite sealer. Pour a small amount of sealer onto the surface and use a clean cloth to spread it evenly, ensuring full coverage.
Allow the sealer to penetrate the granite for the recommended time before wiping away any excess with a dry cloth. Let the countertop cure for at least 24 hours before using it.
When to Call in a Professional Installer
While DIY restoration can yield impressive results, there are instances where it’s best to enlist the expertise of a professional installer:
✗ If your granite countertops have significant damage, such as deep scratches, chips, or cracks that require specialised repair techniques.
✗ If you’re unsure about the suitability of DIY restoration for your specific granite surface or lack the necessary tools and expertise to achieve satisfactory results.
✗ If you encounter unexpected challenges or complications during the restoration process that may require professional intervention to resolve.
By following these safety precautions, and best practices, and knowing when to seek professional assistance, you can restore your granite countertops with confidence and enjoy the renewed beauty and resilience of your kitchen or bathroom space.
How Much Does it Cost to Restore Granite Benchtops?
| Expense | Cost |
| Quality Granite Cleaner | $30 – $40 |
| Soft Cloths/Sponges | $3 – $5 |
| Polishing Compounds | $55 – $85 |
| Electric Polisher | $100 – $300 |
| Impregnator Sealer | $90 – $100 |
| Total | $278 – $530 |
Ready to Restore Your Granite Countertops to Their Former Glory? Granite Warehouse Can Help!
Don’t let dull and worn-out granite countertops dull your kitchen or bathroom beauty any longer. Take the first step towards transforming your living space by contacting Granite Warehouse for expert advice and a personalised quote.
Our team of skilled professionals is here to guide you through the restoration process, providing tailored solutions that meet your needs and budget.
Whether you’re looking to refresh tired surfaces or address more extensive damage, Granite Warehouse has the expertise and resources to help you achieve exceptional results that exceed your expectations.
Reach out to Granite Warehouse today for a free quote or personalised advice