If the cause is acidic etching, the granite may need to be diamond-honed to restore its original shine and luster. It is important to talk with a professional stone installer with experience in working with natural stones to investigate the cause and determine the best way to repair the cloudiness. Other possible causes include regular use without resealing, improper care and maintenance, and installation of substandard sealers. One of the most common causes is etching from acidic materials such as citrus juice, wine, vinegar, and other chemicals. Granite can develop a cloudy appearance for a variety of reasons. The more the surface is polished, the more sparkle it will have. Darker colors can look matte and not sparkle as much and therefore gain their beauty in other ways.įinally, polishing techniques can increase the sparkle of granite. Granites that are white, gray, and black tend to reflect light the best and sparkle the most. The available colors can also affect the apparent sparkle. The granular structure of granite can be manipulated during processing to create different looks and sparkle levels. Large and sharp crystals will create bigger sparkles, while smaller, more rounded crystals can be seen as grainy and less reflective. The size and shape of the crystals also play a role. The individual quartz and feldspar crystals that make up the majority of granites reflect light and create a shimmering effect. Granite has a natural sparkle that comes from its crystalline structure. If you need to clean granite countertops, use a household cleaner avoid using products like bleach and vinegar, as they can damage the sealant which helps to protect the surface. To safely polish a granite countertop, use a granite-specific product labeled “polishing compound” or “polish” on the label. Granite is a strong, durable and highly scratch-resistant type of natural stone, so it is important to use the correct cleaning and polishing products to preserve the stone.Ĭar polish can contain abrasive cleaners or lubricants if used on a granite surface they can dull the finish or strip away the protective sealant. No, car polish should not be used on granite as it can potentially damage the granite’s surface. Additionally, you should take care to avoid dropping heavy objects onto a granite countertop as this can create cracking or fracturing. Items to avoid putting on a granite countertop include hot pans and pots, citrus juices, vinegar, and cleaning solvents as they can all damage or discolor the stone surface.Īdditionally, you should avoid placing acid-based products, such as bleach, turpentine, or paint remover on the surface as these items can also cause damage or discolor granite countertops. You should not put anything on a granite countertop that could scratch the granite surface or cause a chemical reaction. What should you not put on a granite countertop? As a final step, you can apply a granite wax or stone protector to help protect the granite. For a more vibrant shine, granite polish can be applied afterward. Start by applying the sealant evenly using a damp cloth and let it dry completely.Īfter the sealant has dried, buff the surface using a clean, dry cloth and use a sealant remover if necessary. To achieve a shiny granite surface, the most common method is to use a sealant. Keep in mind that if the granite surface has deep scratches, it might not be polished.Īfter the granite has been polished, you can move on to shining it. If the granite has pits or small crevices, use a small brush or stiff cloth to get into them before polishing. Rub the stone in a circular motion on the granite’s surface to create a smooth and even finish. To polish the granite, you will need to use a grinder or abrasive stone. Use the cloth and solution to remove any surface dirt like grease, oil, and food particles.Īfter the surface is clean and dried, you can begin the polishing process. To start, it is important to clean the granite surface with a damp cloth, followed by a detergent solution. Polishing and shining granite is a relatively easy process. Once the granite surface is completely dry, you can use a commercial granite polishing agent to make the counter shine again.įinally, if the granite still looks dull, you can apply a protective sealer to restore a beautiful sheen. Rinse away any residue and dry with a soft cloth. Leave it on for a few minutes and use a damp cloth to scrub in a circular motion. After cleaning, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the granite. You can clean your granite with a store-bought cleaner specifically formulated for hard surfaces, or you can make a simple cleaning solution with a drop of mild soap and warm water. The process begins with a thorough cleaning to remove any debris, grease or dirt. Getting your granite to shine again requires a bit of effort, but it’s worth it to help your countertop look its best.
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