Repairing Guides

how to repair pits in granite countertop

by Velva Bahringer Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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How do you fix a pitted granite countertop? When the holes in your granite countertop are large enough, it is filled with an epoxy mixed to match the stone’s natural colour (as much as possible). Your natural stone professional will mix an epoxy specific to your stone and its colour where the pitting occurs.

A: There are several options for patching divots in granite and other natural stones, including two-part epoxy, polyester resin mixed with hardener, and acrylic resin cured with ultraviolet light.Feb 26, 2018

Full Answer

How do you repair a hole in a granite countertop?

How to reattach broken granite pieces

  • Select the epoxy material. ...
  • Collect granite dust. ...
  • Clean up and isolate the crack area. ...
  • Check whether the broken section will require increased supporting. ...
  • Prepare the epoxy mix. ...
  • Apply the first coat of epoxy. ...
  • Ensure proper leveling. ...
  • Wait for the first coat of epoxy to dry. ...
  • Apply the second coat of epoxy. ...
  • Wait for the second coat of epoxy to dry. ...

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How to resurface a countertop with thin granite?

Here are some tips:

  • Study real granite at any home improvement center. ...
  • Apply coats while the previous layer is still slightly damp. ...
  • Add grain with a feather lightly swiped across still-damp paint. ...
  • Add veins with a fine-tipped artist brush dipped in a contrasting color — pure white or black are good choices. ...

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Should you Repair, Refinish, or replace granite countertops?

Why do I have crack on my granite countertops?

  • Cracks are lines of physical separation that exist between two objects. ...
  • There is a sharp edge to cracks that you may feel or grasp with your fingernail
  • Cracks in granite are most usually referred to as ″hairline,″ however they may be much broader.
  • Cracks can be short or long, surface or whole thickness of the slab
  • they can also be short or lengthy.

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How do you repair a chip in a granite countertop?

How to Repair a Chip in a Granite Countertop

  • Order the Granite Chip Repair Kit. The granite chip repair kit can be easily ordered from Mr. ...
  • Remove all items near the chip. Clear the area of any dishware, utensils, decorations, or any other object that may interfere with your workspace.
  • Clean your granite countertop. ...
  • Fill the chip with epoxy. ...
  • Apply the hardener and clean the area. ...

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Can pitted granite be repaired?

Can they be fixed? The short answer is yes, most pitting can be filled with epoxy. However, very shallow pitting may not be able to be filled properly as there is not enough surface area for the epoxy to adhere.

How do you repair a granite pit?

You can do this granite countertop maintenance / repair yourself no problem. Fill small pits and chips with the Granite & Marble Repair Kit for chips and pits. Pros will use an epoxy or resin adhesive for granite repair of pits or a chip, but they can rarely get an exact color match. Thus, the repair is always visible.

Why is my granite pitting?

"Pitting" occurs because of the crystalline composition of granite. As granite was formed and cooled deep beneath the earth's surface small empty pockets developed between the various mineral crystals in the stone. Over time these voids were filled with softer minerals.

How do you fix a dent in a granite countertop?

What to Do If You Get a Chip in Your Granite Countertop — Repair...1.1 1. Clean the Area.1.2 2. Fill the Chip With a Color-Matched Gel Epoxy.1.3 3. Let the Epoxy Dry According to the Manufacturer's Instructions.1.4 4. Remove the Excess Epoxy and Polish the Area.

What is the best granite repair kit?

Top 10 Best Granite Top Repair Kit In 2022#ProductScore1Granite, Marble and Quartz Countertops…9.202Marble Repair Kit & Granite…8.603Marble Repair Kit & Granite…9.754ProCaliber Products Granite & Marble…7.906 more rows

Should new granite have pits?

They don't fill anything that you can see. Also, you should not have pits in the surface. True, some granites can develop a few pits as some crystals come loose with use, but new granite should be mirror smooth. You can fill chips and pits using the Marble & Granite Repair Kit for Chips/Pits.

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 does a fissure in granite look like?

Fissures are elongated but extremely narrow openings along the boundaries of crystalline structures in the stone. The visible separation usually remains within the depth of the stone, although it sometimes can go entirely through. Fissures often appear in more than one place on the slab and are rarely straight.

Can granite worktops be repolished?

Because granite is such a hard stone, though, it requires specialized equipment like a grinder or stone polisher, so it's usually best to hire professional stone restorer to handle the project. Contract your installer to see if he offers repolishing services or can recommend a stone restorer for the job.

What is the best epoxy for granite?

Superclear countertop epoxy is a high-quality product that can be used on virtually any surface and with numerous additives. Superclear countertop epoxy is a high-quality product that can be used on virtually any surface and with numerous additives.

How much does it cost to repair a chip in granite?

It costs anywhere from $200 to $500 to repair or resurface a countertop. Depending on the material of the countertop, prepare to pay anywhere from $100 to $1,200....Highlights.Minimum CostNational Average CostMaximum Cost$100$350$1,200Mar 3, 2022

Can you fix chipped granite?

Unfortunately, repairing granite and making it look the way it did before is nearly impossible. To fix a chip in granite countertops, a professional will come to your home and fill the spot in with Epoxy. While Epoxy makes the surface flat and even again, it doesn't look exactly like the granite it is replacing.

What do you use to glue granite together?

Epoxy glue is the most common type of glue used in granite installations, as it is one of the few types of adhesives that can provide a bond that is as strong as the stone itself.

Can granite be repaired?

A skilled technician can repair chips or cracks in granite, marble, quartz or corian. It does require specialist equipment and knowledge of how to match colour and re-create the depth of the granite appearance, but the end results when done well are excellent.

What type of epoxy is used for granite?

LamLock RocketGel - 25 Minute Epoxy for Granite, Quartz, Marble, Tile - Easily Fix Chips, Fill Cracks, Repair Defects and Restore Countertops and Tile.

Can granite be glued back together?

Can You Glue Granite to Granite? The short answer is yes! You can glue granite together.

What is a polish on granite?

The polish is not something that is applied to the granite countertop. The polish is an integral part of the granite slab itself. The polish is created by grinding and smoothing the granite slab surface on huge machines.

How long does granite finish last?

The shine may get duller over the years as the smooth shiny layer of the finish can get worn away, but we're talking like 20 years (if then) and not 5. Granite is so hard that wearing away the polished layer is rare.

How big is a pinhole pit?

The small pinhole pits are difficult to deal with. Not much can be done with these. But the "normal" pits that are 1/16 to 1/4 inch in diameter can be easily filled using the Pit Repair Kits.

What is granite made of?

Granite is composed of many "grains" of various minerals and crystals. Over time with normal use that involves some physical impact and water exposure some of these minerals can pop out.

Does granite have pits?

Most granite slabs won't have pits, although any slab of granite could develop a few pits over time. Typically not a big deal. You can do this granite countertop maintenance / repair and fill small pits yourself with the Granite & Marble Repair Kit for chips and pits.

Can you use epoxy to repair granite?

Pros will use an epoxy or resin adhesive for granite repair of pits, but they can rarely get an exact color match. Thus, the repair is always visible. The above product is much easier to use than an epoxy (don't need a pro to do it) and dries level and clear, so you can't even see the repair!

What happens when you cut granite?

When you start cutting large granite blocks into slabs, some of the minerals and crystals that were once surrounded are now exposed on a surface and may pop out.

Can you use both colors of wood slabs?

Now, both colors can be just fine and look great, but some slabs can be bad, so you must be careful picking out your slab.

Can you replace a slab if you picked a color?

However, if you simply picked a color and the designer or fabricator actually chose the slab to install, then have it replaced.

Is granite a natural product?

Well, granite (actually gneiss in this case) is a natural product and there can be significant variation or departure for the "norm" in the characteristics and qualities of certain stones/colors/varieties.

Do granite stones get shinier?

Some stones will take a polish and get "shinier" than other stones. While a couple of granite colors (santa cecilia, giallo veneziano) are the most common varieties to have a rough or gitty surface even after polishing.

Can you polish granite?

Well, the rough patches probably won't grow. Granite is very hard and the areas that are polished will likely stay that way so long as you use only products safe for cleaning granite countertops and marble.

How to repair a crack in granite countertop?

Often you can repair a separated crack in the granite countertop by filling in the gaps with an epoxy glue that matches the color of the stone.

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.

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.

What holds the weight of a broken piece?

Then you need to do one more item. Support the broken piece with a metal L-shaped bracket that holds the broken pieces’ weight during and after the repair.

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.

How to repair a chipped kitchen counter?

1. Clean and Clear . Clean the area around the chip with the cleaner and allow it to thoroughly dry. This is very important, as you don’t want to accidentally get any dirt or dust in your repair. It’s best to clean the entire counter and completely clear it of any dishes, small appliances and other obstructions. 2.

How long does it take for glue to dry on granite?

Now, be patient. You must allow the glue to thoroughly dry for at least 24 hours. This is crucial, as the glue’s surface may be damaged if you touch it before it’s dry; also, glue could spread outside the chipped area. Once the glue is dry, you can remove the masking tape. (You may choose to use a hardener spray designed specifically for granite countertops that can help set the glue and strengthen the area around the chip repair, but be sure to follow manufacturer’s instructions.)

How to remove glue from a countertop?

Take the razor blade and hold it at a slight angle to the countertop. Use the counter’s surface to guide you. Gently and carefully scrape away any excess glue from the area. If you can, and if needed, delicately scrape away any glue above the chip. 6.

What is included in a countertop kit?

The kits usually include a clear epoxy, sometimes in an applicator, and the tools needed to fill in the boo-boo. There might also be some colored epoxies you can use to match your countertop. If you go this route, closely follow the instructions that come with the kit.

Can a chip in granite ruin a countertop?

But one unfortunate slip causes you to drop something heavy and, just like that, a small chip somehow ruins the entirety of your beautiful, expensive, meticulously selected countertop. But there’s no need to have a breakdown over a chip. Even if you typically prefer to call in home repair professionals to handle the finer details, if your chip is small, you can take on this project yourself.

Do you have to have a breakdown over a chip?

But there’s no need to have a breakdown over a chip. Even if you typically prefer to call in home repair professionals to handle the finer details, if your chip is small, you can take on this project yourself.

Can you repair a crack in granite?

If you have a very large chip or crack, it might be better to consult with a granite marble repair expert. Professional assistance might also be a good idea if your granite is an unusual color or has a speckled design. Pros have access to a wider range of colors and shades of epoxy, and they’re experts at mixing and properly filling in a larger chip. It’ll be worth it to have your gorgeous granite countertop returned to its dazzling glory.

How to repair a chip in granite countertop?

After the epoxy has filled in the chipped area of your granite, use the hardener spray to complete the chip repair. The hardener will help the epoxy to set and ensure the strength of the chip repair. After it is sprayed, wipe down the excess. Once the hardener has dried then carefully use a razor blade, or a similar tool, to smooth out the chipped area to match the rest of your granite countertop. For the finishing touch of your granite repair, take a piece of steel wool and buff out the area until it looks smooth and beautiful. Applying granite polishers, such as AGM Cleaner afterward will give the area a nice shimmer.

What is the epoxy used for granite?

A similar epoxy to the one that comes with the Granite Chip Repair Kit is used to prepare granite slabs for use as kitchen and bathroom countertops.

What is in the chip repair kit?

Inside of the Granite Chip Repair Kit there is a gel epoxy, which will be used to fill the indentation on your countertop. Because of the natural variations in granite, it is impossible to tell that the area ever had an imperfection, since the epoxy is translucent. The same process is used during the production of granite slabs in quarries around the world. Because granite is carved from the mountains, it requires some preparation to become the slabs that you see in granite stockyards. A similar epoxy to the one that comes with the Granite Chip Repair Kit is used to prepare granite slabs for use as kitchen and bathroom countertops.

Is granite the toughest material?

Last updated on July 05, 2021. Granite is one of the most durable natural stones in the world, therefore making it one of the toughest materials in the world, period. However, despite the rugged nature of granite, it can still chip if a cast iron pan plummets into your countertop’s edge.

Is Marble.com a quick turnaround company?

When it comes time to get the job done, our fabrication and installation teams have the equipment and expertise it takes to get your project cut and delivered the right way, every time. We at Marble.com are known for our incredibly quick turnaround, as we understand having countertops and other mainstays installed quickly and properly is important to our customers. We value your time, and our goal is to create the best work possible and have you enjoying it as possible.

Does AGM cleaner work on granite?

The advantage of the AGM Cleaner is that it also has a small amount of sealer in it, which will help preserve your granite counters. DO NOT use abrasive cleaners containing bleach.

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.

What do you need to polish granite countertops?

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 powder specially equip ped to polish your granite countertops. Here are the basic steps:

Why is my granite countertop rough?

Wondering, “why is my granite countertop 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 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 replace countertops?

It’s important to fix those rough areas or replace your countertops completely if they are beyond repair .

Why use smooth granite slabs?

With this in mind, both designers and homeowners opt for smooth granite slabs to make the sealing and maintenance process easier for a clean, sanitary space.

Why does granite pit?

While pitting is typically due to changes in the stone’s composite during polishing , it can also be caused by improper care and maintenance of the stone over time. Ensure that your granite countertop is always properly cleaned, and any spills are quickly cleaned from the surface. We recommend using a PH-neutral cleaner for daily cleaning, or warm water with a mild soap will do too.

How to fix pitted stone?

Then, the epoxy tint will be mixed with a hardener. The hardener will harden quickly, so there’s a limited amount of time between mixing and applying to the stone. Before it dries, any excess epoxy will be scraped off to create a flush surface. Depending on the product, the epoxy will take a few minutes or longer to set. Once set, the professional will clean the area with steel wool to remove any epoxy surrounding the pitting. This is what gives it a smooth finish.

What is pitting in granite?

First, what’s pitting? Holes in your granite countertop are called pitting. Pitting is a small crack, indentation or fissure in the natural stone’s surface. It can be caused by the polishing process or an inherent, unique mark of the stone. All natural stones have pitting to some extent, though most are barely visible.

What to do if you notice pitting in stone?

If you notice pitting, contact a professional right away to get it filled to protect against further or deeper issues. Be prepared to clean, seal, and fill any pitting in your stone with your professional natural stone care team to guarantee a long life with your stone surface.

How long does it take for epoxy to set?

Depending on the product, the epoxy will take a few minutes or longer to set. Once set, the professional will clean the area with steel wool to remove any epoxy surrounding the pitting. This is what gives it a smooth finish.

Can you use epoxy to fill holes in granite?

The short answer is yes, most pitting can be filled with epoxy. However, very shallow pitting may not be able to be filled properly as there is not enough surface area for the epoxy to adhere. When the holes in your granite countertop are large enough, it is filled with an epoxy mixed to match the stone’s natural colour (as much as possible).

Is pitting a sign of a malfunction?

Rest assured, pitting is NOT a sign of malfunction in the installation process nor an error made by the polisher; it’s simply a natural element of owning and caring for natural stone.

Why Granite Chips

If granite is so strong and durable, why does it chip just because it takes a hit? Well, granite has a property called fissures, which are narrow separations near the surface of a slab between crystal clusters within the stone.

How to Repair Chipped Granite

You can repair small, minor chips in your granite with a few materials readily available at your home improvement store. The basic steps of filling the chip with glue or epoxy and blending it seamlessly are included below.

Granite Repair Kits

If you don’t have many of the above materials for repairing chipped granite already on hand, there are also several granite repair kits that have all the tools and materials you need in one handy kit. Here are two kits recommended by Granite ASAP:

When to Call a Professional

If a large chunk or edge of granite has broken off of your countertop, calling in a stone restoration professional to fix it will be worthwhile. The countertop may have been installed incorrectly and become damaged for a number of reasons resulting in the granite’s failure, including:

How to Test Granite Sealing

But, the number one most important tip to protect granite from chips is to diligently keep it sealed every two to four years, says the Rock Doctor .

More Granite Care Tips

Never sit on the edge of a granite countertop or the weight could stress the material.

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