The Pros and Cons of Granite

Understanding Granite and how to care for it

Granite is a great choice for nearly any kitchen because the investment truly does add lasting value to your home. Granite, when installed and maintained properly, can last for virtually a lifetime. For anyone looking to sell a home, granite countertops are a definite perk for perspective homebuyers, often increasing the resale value of the home. And, of course, when you love your kitchen, and how you feel in it, you’ll spend more time in it throughout the day.

The Cons of granite

Granite has some disadvantages as well. granite is very porous surface. This means staining occurs much more easily on granite than countertops made of other materials. Granite also doesn’t take to granite cleaners well. Most granite cleaners are best left for granite countertops not used often, or granite countertops that are sealed, leaving no porous surface behind. Too much granite cleaner can wear away the granite finish that makes it shine and allows it to stand up to stains better. The fact of the matter is, even if granite is properly sealed granite countertops still aren’t granite cleaner friendly.


Granite countertops also require more maintenance than most other surfaces in the kitchen. When granite countertops are new, they will often need to be resealed periodically until that granite sealer becomes part of the granite and no longer needs to be added. That means granite countertops need to be resealed every few years. Granite sealers are not cheap, and granite can’t be resealed by just anyone with any granite cleaner or granite sealer they happen to have laying around the house.


The Pros of Granite

Granite continues to remain one of the most sought after countertop materials today because it is a luxurious, beautiful stone. Since granite has become more affordable in recent years and kitchens can now look as amazing on a modest budget with this versatile material, your kitchen will not be an identical replica like those found at cookie cutter homes around town--but rather have its own individual lines homeowners love.


Proper sealing makes all the difference when caring for these stones over time so that they maintain their stunning appearance even longer.  Granite still remains highly desired due largely from its richly elegant appeal.

How to take care of Granite

One of the easiest ways granite can be taken care of is by investing in granite cleaner rather than granite sealer. granite cleaner is easy to come by, but granite sealer needs to be bought from granite shops or other specialty stores. Granite countertops are usually cheaper than other options, so the extra cost of granite cleaner may not seem too bad when it comes time to reseal granite countertops every few years.


Contact us to take care of your natural stone

The bottom line with granite is that granite requires more upkeep and special cleaner than most other surfaces in the kitchen.  If you are interested in a professional cleaning, contact us today!  We are experts and know how to take care of your natural stone.

The Art of Polishing Natural Stone: Tips from the Pros

January 20, 2025
Natural stone surfaces, such as marble, granite, limestone, or travertine, bring elegance and sophistication to any space. However, due to wear, scratches, and exposure to moisture and dirt, these surfaces can lose their shine over time. Polishing natural stone is essential for restoring its glossy finish and enhancing its durability. Why Polishing Natural Stone is Important Polishing is not just about aesthetics—it also serves several practical benefits: Restores Shine – Natural stone can lose its luster over time due to foot traffic, spills, and regular use. Polishing rejuvenates the surface. Protects Against Stains – A polished surface makes it more resistant to stains and moisture absorption. Smooths Imperfections – Proper polishing techniques can diminish or remove Minor scratches and etching. Extends Longevity – Regular polishing helps maintain the integrity of the stone, ensuring it lasts for decades. Step-by-Step Guide to Polishing Natural Stone Like a Pro 1. Identify Your Stone Type Different types of natural stone require different polishing techniques: Marble & Limestone – Soft, porous stones require gentle polishing to avoid scratches. Granite & Quartzite – Hard, dense stones that require diamond polishing pads for effective results. Travertine – Porous and textured, requiring extra sealing after polishing. Slate – Naturally rough, often enhanced with a stone enhancer rather than polished.  Understanding your stone type ensures you use the right products and techniques. 2. Clean the Surface Thoroughly Before polishing, the stone surface must be free of dirt, debris, and stains. How to Clean Natural Stone Before Polishing: Remove loose dirt – Sweep or dust the surface. Use a pH-neutral cleaner – Mix warm water with a mild stone cleaner or a few drops of dish soap. Wipe with a soft cloth or mop – Avoid harsh brushes or scrubbing pads. Dry the surface completely – Let it air dry or use a microfiber cloth to remove excess moisture. Pro Tip: Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners, which can etch the surface and make polishing more difficult. 3. Select the Right Polishing Method Two main methods for polishing natural stone are DIY hand polishing and machine polishing . DIY Hand Polishing (For Small Areas) Hand polishing is a practical option if you have a small surface, such as a countertop or tabletop. What You Need: A stone polishing powder or compound (specific to your stone type) A soft cloth or buffing pad Water How to Hand Polish: Apply polishing powder – Sprinkle a small amount on the surface. Dampen a soft cloth – Use water to create a paste-like consistency. Buff in circular motions – Gently rub the surface until the shine starts to appear. Wipe clean – Use a damp cloth to remove any excess residue. Pro Tip: Use a high-quality stone polish spray after buffing for extra shine. Machine Polishing (For Floors and Large Areas) A machine polisher is the best option for larger surfaces, such as stone floors or walls. What You Need: A variable-speed stone polisher (also known as a buffer) Diamond polishing pads (grit levels ranging from coarse to fine) Water spray bottle A sealant (optional, but recommended) How to Machine Polish: Attach a low-grit diamond polishing pad (e.g., 50-100 grit) to the polisher. Lightly wet the surface – Use a spray bottle to prevent overheating. Begin polishing in sections – Move the machine in circular motions over the stone. Gradually switch to finer grits – Increase the grit level (200, 400, 800, 1500, and 3000) for a smoother finish. Wipe down the surface – Remove dust and excess polish residue with a clean cloth. Pro Tip: Always keep the surface slightly damp while polishing to avoid friction burns on the stone. 4. Seal the Stone After Polishing After polishing, sealing your natural stone is highly recommended, especially for porous stones like marble, limestone, and travertine. How to Apply a Sealer: Choose a high-quality stone sealer – Look for a penetrating sealer suitable for your stone type. Apply with a soft cloth or sponge – Work in even layers. Allow time to absorb – Let the sealer sit for 10-15 minutes. Buff away excess – Use a clean, dry cloth to remove any leftover sealer. Pro Tip: Sealing protects against stains, water damage, and daily wear. Depending on usage, it should be reapplied every 6-12 months. 5. Maintain the Shine with Regular Care Once your natural stone is polished, follow these maintenance tips to keep it looking flawless: ✔ Use pH-neutral stone cleaners – Avoid acidic substances like vinegar, lemon juice, or harsh chemicals. ✔ Wipe up spills immediately – Prevent stains from setting. ✔ Use coasters, mats, and rugs – Protect surfaces from scratches and heat. ✔ Re-polish as needed – Consider light re-polishing for high-traffic areas every 6-12 months. Common Mistakes to Avoid 🚫 Using acidic cleaners – These can etch and dull the surface. 🚫 Skipping sealing – Unsealed stone is more prone to stains and damage. 🚫 Using rough pads or steel wool – These can scratch and ruin the finish. 🚫 Applying too much polish – Overuse of polish can create residue buildup. Final Thoughts Polishing natural stone is an essential step in maintaining its beauty and durability. Whether refreshing a marble countertop, restoring a granite floor, or enhancing the look of travertine tiles, the right techniques and tools will ensure a flawless finish. With proper cleaning, polishing, and sealing, your natural stone surfaces will continue to shine for years. If your stone requires extensive restoration or you are unsure about the process, consider hiring Marble Stone Polish for expert results. A well-maintained natural stone surface is a valuable investment and a timeless feature in any home.

How to Clean Natural Stone Surfaces Properly

November 15, 2024
Daily Cleaning Routine: For most natural stones, wiping down surfaces daily with a soft cloth and a pH-neutral cleaner or water with a few drops of mild soap is sufficient. Avoid excessive water on surfaces, as standing water can penetrate stone pores and lead to discoloration. Weekly or Deep Cleaning Routine: Use a stone-specific cleaner that matches your stone type for weekly or deeper cleaning. Avoid all-purpose household cleaners, which may contain acids or abrasives that can damage the stone. Handling Spills and Stains: Immediate Action: Blot any spills immediately with a soft cloth. Do not rub, as this can spread the stain. For Stubborn Stains: If you encounter a tough stain, like oil or wine, create a poultice with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain, cover it with plastic wrap, and leave it overnight. Rinse and wipe clean the next day. Avoiding Common Mistakes: Never use acidic cleaners, such as vinegar, lemon, or bleach. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or brushes that could scratch the stone. Do not use wax or polish unless specifically recommended for your stone type, as this can create buildup and damage.
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