Our Stone Polishing Procedure in Gilbert, AZ Proved That Damaged Granite Can Be Restored

December 28, 2017

Granite is a very popular and attractive stone that can be used indoors and outdoors. It comes in a range of different hues, from pinks and grays to browns and greens, which makes it easy for homeowners to match the stone with their décor. Granite has been used for thousands of years in big and small projects alike. Granite is very priced due to its beauty and its ability to resist harsh conditions. However, this stone is not completely immune to damage. When proper care measures are not taken, it can deteriorate over time.


This client knew that the granite counter in his garden could not be restored with any domestic cleaners because the damage was well beyond what he could remedy. He sometimes used heavy tools on the counter for DIY projects, and he also used it for barbecues. Moving around, cutting, and placing hot objects— not to mention the external environment —progressively deteriorated this counter to the point where it had big holes and deep scratches. The homeowner thought it was unsalvageable, but a friend of his recommended getting an assessment from hard surface restoration experts. They searched online and came across our website, where they found descriptions of our stone polishing in Gilbert, AZ, in addition to excellent reviews from satisfied clients. Our client filled out the online form, and we set a date for a free, in-home consultation.

When they saw the counter, our technicians noticed that the top layer of the stone was completely worn out, and in some parts, the damage had reached deeper layers of the stone. When the client explained how he used the counter, it was clear that the way he used it was responsible for most of the deterioration. The technicians determined that the counter had experienced weathering and had deep scratches. Weathering is when rocks are gradually reduced into fragments due to exposure to wind, water, and heat. Wind and water remove the stone's particles and dull the surface in the process, while heat expands and contracts the stone's components, which breaks down the stone.

This counter had endured the hot and arid climate of Phoenix. The heavy scratching was mostly the result of using very heavy tools on the counter, but as expected, weather conditions had only deepened the scratches over time. The owner acknowledged that he had never used any specialized chemicals on the counter until he realized that it was too late. Our technicians, however, were prepared to give this counter a new appearance and a second chance. The only way to recover granite is to use fillers for the holes in the stone, and then polish them to even out the surface and obtain the glossy finish it originally had.



After the assessment, our technicians got down to work. The process started with a gentle cleaning. A soft cleaner was applied to the surface, and a scrubber was used to remove any deep-seated dirt. Once the surface was perfectly dry and clean, the technicians placed an epoxy filler in the holes. Granite fillers are usually epoxy-based, because epoxy has a similar consistency to granite, which is a rather hard stone. Epoxy compounds also have optimum adhesion. They fill any pits and cracks in the stone and penetrate deeply. Epoxy compounds also are resistant to temperature changes like granite, and epoxy glue is so strong that it can correct structural damages to the stone. Epoxy fillers are useful for not only restoring the stone, but also for producing brand new slabs of high-quality granite at lower costs.

Once the epoxy was completely dry and hardened, our technicians polished the surface with a diamond pad. This procedure achieved a soft, even surface that shined. Then the top layer of granite and the epoxy filler were evened out and sealed with a high-end stone sealant, to bring out even more the natural gleam of the stone, and protect it for a long time.

The client was amazed by the results of the restoration! It was really impressive to see that the filler did not show, and the counter was gleaming and smooth. The granite looked so new that you could hardly tell that it had needed to be worked on at all. This counter will be protected from weathering because the polishing compounds we use create a barrier against the external environment. However, we strongly advised the client to change the way he used this counter. Heavy tools should be used elsewhere, and the counter should be wiped after it rains. Protecting the surface when it is not going to be used for a long time is also strongly advisable. Some cleaners might damage the stone too, so soapless ones are the best choice, as they won't etch the surface since they don't contain highly acidic ingredients. With this advice, the counter will remain in good condition for a long time.

If you think your hard surfaces are unsalvageable, think again. Sir Grout has the best experts in the hard surface restoration industry. Regardless of how deteriorated your hard surfaces are, we have a solution. Our professionals will help you choose the procedures you need to recover countertops, floors, backsplashes, and more. To get in touch with us, call (480) 588-0731 or fill out the free, in-home consultation form on this website. Stay up to date with our latest news by subscribing to our newsletter.

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