Repairing Guides

how to repair granite flaking

by Makenzie Altenwerth Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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How to Fix Rough Spots on a Granite Countertop

  • Step 1: Clean the Rough and Chipped Spots. One of the main downsides to rough spots on granite countertops, beyond the...
  • Step 2: Surround the Damaged Area with Masking Tape. To ensure that the filler you’re using doesn’t affect the rest of...
  • Step 3: Apply Filler. Now that the area is prepped and ready to go, it’s time to...

Spalling, chips and holes in the stone surface must be filled with a polyester, epoxy, or cement- based filler material with color added to match that of the stone. Generally, the area must also be resurfaced after filling to smooth out and level the filler material with the stone surface.Jan 22, 2013

Full Answer

How to repair cracks in granite?

Start by selecting the material you will use for the repair. There are many epoxy products created specifically for repairing granite and natural stone. Choose carefully, for some are best for filling cracks, while others are ideal for patching up broken pieces. Since epoxy is not necessarily colored, you need to think about pigmentation.

How do you fix dull granite countertops?

Then dry the area thoroughly. Next, apply granite polishing powder to the area and buffer it with a variable speed electric drill on a low-speed setting. Keep the granite powder on the stone as you buff it, and then clean it off afterward. Often if you do not clean your granite countertops correctly, over time the stone dulls.

How do you make granite countertops Shine?

Keep the granite powder on the stone as you buff it, and then clean it off afterward. Often if you do not clean your granite countertops correctly, over time the stone dulls. You might need to polish the granite using a countertop polish or even refinish the countertop. To be clear, the shine on the stone comes from the finish.

What happens if you don’t seal granite?

Granite is a porous stone. It requires an annual seal to ensure its long-term durability. If you do not seal it at least once every year or two, bacteria seeps into the stone. That makes it unhealthy for you. Also, it could weaken the stone when water and other liquids get into the porous rock.

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Why is my granite countertop flaking?

Flaking (also called spalling) in natural stone is generally an indicator of sub-florescence, a condition in which mineral salts are carried into the stone by moisture and accumulate beneath the stone's surface, creating stress within the pores of the stone.

How do you fix a spalling stone?

Repairing chips, spalls, and holes in the stone's surface requires a polyester, epoxy, or cement-based filler material with color added to match that of the stone. After filling, the area must also be restored to smooth out and level the filler material with the stone surface.

Why is my granite countertop chipping?

Sometimes granite will chip around the edges of the counter. Impact of a ladder, or appliances, or any other sturdy objects while being moved around kitchen area may cause the granite chipping. Generally these chips are small in size, but they may mar the beauty of your counter.

Do granite countertops flake?

As with the Metallicus granite, this is likely a case of a stone with a lot of mica (the mineral that makes granite sparkle), which can be softer and flake off. But not so soft to leave indentations!! You'll probably notice the flaking will diminish in time. Return to Granite Counter Top Questions & Answers.

Why is my natural stone flaking?

Flaking (also called spalling) in natural stone is generally an indicator of sub-florescence, a condition in which mineral salts are carried into the stone by moisture and accumulate beneath the stone's surface, creating stress within the pores of the stone.

What causes granite to bubble?

When the water evaporates at the stone surface the minerals precipitate into a solid. Thus it expands causing the spalling or deterioration of the stone surface. It also leaves the precipitation on the stone surface which is called efflorescence which is normally white in color.

How do I stop my granite countertop from chipping?

Granite sealers provide a layer of protection for your granite countertops. Even though you probably aren't thinking about chips when you are sealing your granite countertops, it can help prevent chipping from occurring. It is also beneficial to keep your countertops clean.

Can granite be repaired?

Granite worktops naturally absorb liquid can be damaged if care is not taken during normal use. Granite worktops with a significant amount of quartz will be more durable than those with less quartz and are resist wear and tear better than other types.

How do you fill granite chips?

0:542:53Repair a Chip in Granite Counter Top Permanently and Quickly - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipApply a curing strip over the top of the paste this pushes away excess LCA and molds a nice flatMoreApply a curing strip over the top of the paste this pushes away excess LCA and molds a nice flat surface. Use one of the craft sticks to help spread out the paste.

Can granite be repolished?

Most granite surfaces require remedial polishing every five to 15 years, depending on the traffic or use they receive. Your newly polished granite must, of course, then be re-sealed to protect it from stains and other harmful issues. Doctor Granite discusses that process below.

How do you make granite smooth again?

Polishing your granite countertop is extremely similar to cleaning it. However, this time you will let a polishing solution sit for 3 to 4 minutes before wiping it up. Afterward, buff the countertop with a soft cotton cloth until there are no streaks remaining.

What are the shiny flakes in granite?

Mica In Granite Countertops Explained: Granite slabs used for countertops are made up of several different minerals… quartz, feldspar, and in some cases mica. Mica is usually what makes the granite slab look beautiful by giving off a reflective three dimensional appearance that sparkles.

What does spalling look like?

Spalling concrete can look like round or oval depressions along surfaces or joints. Spalling tends to be most common in cold climates when de-icing chemicals are applied or when seasonal freeze-thaw cycles damage the concrete.

What is the best product for spalling concrete?

Quikrete Re-Cap Concrete Resurfacer is a polymer-modified Portland cement product that's specially designed for making thin layer repairs and restoring the appearance of concrete. You can apply it on spalling concrete as thin as a sixteenth of an inch or as thick as one-half inch.

How do you resurface spalled concrete?

1:457:41Concrete Resurfacing - How To Fix Spalled Concrete - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd sometimes the easiest way to get that spalled concrete off is just to lightly grind it that'llMoreAnd sometimes the easiest way to get that spalled concrete off is just to lightly grind it that'll remove all that loose. Stuff you know get us back down to a good concrete base. Now this concrete

Can I seal spalling concrete?

To prevent spalling, you need a hi-grade seal and cure which can allow the concrete to breath and but yet protect it - especially during that first critical year. V-SEAL is a HI-TECH deep penetrating sealer and cure that easily passes the ASTM one hundred day freeze/thaw test.

Why Is My Granite Countertop Rough?

Did you take a look at your kitchen and reflect, “there are rough spots on my granite countertop?” This can be due to a multitude of factors. From...

How to Apply Granite Sealer?

When it comes to how to apply granite sealer, we have all the must-know tips and tricks. First, you’ll need to thoroughly clean your surface to ens...

How Do I Polish a Granite Countertop?

If you’re looking to restore the shine in your granite countertops, polishing them is the answer. To do this, you’ll need a polishing cream or powd...

Why do you seal granite?

Granite is a porous stone. It requires an annual seal to ensure its long-term durability. If you do not seal it at least once every year or two, bacteria seeps into the stone. That makes it unhealthy for you. Also, it could weaken the stone when water and other liquids get into the porous rock. #2.

How to get rid of etch marks on granite?

Larger ones might require a professional. However, homeowners can usually fix smaller marks left by a lemon or tomato. Start by cleaning the affected area. You can use a little stone soap, but the majority will be water. It should wipe away the dirt and scum.

How long does granite last?

How To Select Granite. Granite countertops usually last at least 10-20 years. However, from time to time things happen. It is part of life. That is why we created this nifty little guide to help you repair your granite countertop if something does go wrong.

Can granite countertops last a long time?

Final Thoughts. With the proper care and maintenance, your granite countertops can last a long time. In some cases, we recommend opting for a new granite countertop installation versus fixing a counter with a significant number of chips. Plus, opting for a new countertop gives you a chance to modernize your space and refresh your kitchen.

Can you polish granite countertops?

Often if you do not clean your granite countertops correctly, over time the stone dulls. You might need to polish the granite using a countertop polish or even refinish the countertop.

Who owns Granite Selection?

Paul Batashev is the owner and CEO of Granite Selection. The company began in 2011 Pay Less for Granite and has been transforming homes since 2011 with its expertise as a kitchen countertop company and manufacturer of fine custom granite countertops. read full bio.

Can you use a granite cleaner on a granite counter?

Daily cleanings of your granite counter require just hot water. You can then use special granite cleaner when you do weekly and monthly cleanings of your granite countertop.

How to clean a rough spot on granite?

For this reason, it’s important to start by cleaning the area with an ammonia-based cleaner and then ensure it’s dry before moving onto the next step.

Why is my granite slab rough?

Granite slabs can become rough for several reasons, ranging from a low-quality stone selection to improper sealing or a lot of wear and tear. But that roughness doesn’t have to stick around. With the right tools and steps, you can fix your rough countertops for a smooth finish, and our experts at Granite Selection are here to tell you how.

How long does it take for granite to show age?

Granite is a highly popular countertop choice as it is incredibly strong – withstanding heat and everyday use for long-term durability. But after years of wear and tear, it can start to show its age. Between the 10 and 15 year mark and after a few repairs, it’s likely time to simply replace your stone.

Why is my countertop rough?

This can be due to a multitude of factors. From years of wear to a lower-quality stone that was prone to or already had chips and cracks, there are a few things to consider when looking at a rough countertop. One of the main reasons may be that you need to improve maintenance methods and re-seal your surface.

Why is it important to keep countertops clean?

In the process of fixing and resealing your countertops, dirt and bacteria can build up, making it even more important that you keep your surface super clean. These high-traffic areas are sure to get dirty, especially after a night of cooking, but leaving them unwashed can cause even more damage in the long run.

Why do you need to clean granite countertops?

This means they frequently need to be wiped down to clean up any spills and dirt that can accumulate. If your surface is rough, uneven, or features chips and scratches, it can be harder to get really clean.

Is granite sealer irreparable?

A slab may be irreparable in some cases, and simply knowing how to apply granite sealer won’t be enough. A stone is considered “irreparable” when it’s covered in these rough spots, chips, or scratches that have significantly diminished the quality.

Granite sealer flaking off?

My installer sealed my Kashmir White after installation. Then my floors were finished. The fumes were quite intense (Waterlox Sealer/finisher). When I walked back into my kitchen, I noticed cellophane like flakes all over my island. Is it possible for fumes to cause a sealer to disintegrate?

Comments (14)

I sealed mine twice. But the sealer goes IN THE STONE, it doesn't make a coating that flakes off... this is weird!!!

Why is my stone flaking?

Why is my natural stone flaking? Flaking (also called spalling) in natural stone is generally an indicator of sub-florescence, a condition in which mineral salts are carried into the stone by moisture and accumulate beneath the stone’s surface, creating stress within the pores of the stone.

What is the white haze on a stone?

Be aware that efflorescence —a white haze or powdery residue on the surface of the stone —can be a precursor to sub-florescence, and an early warning sign. If you think your stone is showing signs of either condition, don’t hesitate to contact your stone restoration technician.

QUESTION

I work for a granite countertop fabrication facility, and recently we installed a kitchen for a customer, using Metallicus for the Island.

ANSWER

Yes, it's the nature of that stone, unfortunately Maureen. The problem with the metal in the granite is that it's softer so thin flakes and specks can be removed from the surface with mild friction.

Why is my stone flaking?

Why is my natural stone flaking? Flaking (also called spalling) in natural stone is generally an indicator of sub-florescence, a condition in which mineral salts are carried into the stone by moisture and accumulate beneath the stone’s surface, creating stress within the pores of the stone.

What is the white haze on a stone?

Be aware that efflorescence —a white haze or powdery residue on the surface of the stone —can be a precursor to sub-florescence, and an early warning sign. If you think your stone is showing signs of either condition, don’t hesitate to contact your stone restoration technician.

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