Dull Granite? Here’s How to Restore its Shine

You chose granite counters because they were highly unbreakable, but now you have a dull surface that is nothing like the lovely countertop you originally had. Where did it go wrong? Granite countertops can give a touch of elegant beauty to any kitchen and need little upkeep due to their high level of durability. However, with time, acidic substances can erode the surface of your counter, or grease and soap residue can build up on the surface, causing the dull granite.

Countertops cleaned with dish soap or other soap-based cleaners leave a layer that makes surfaces appear dull. To restore the gloss, purchase a good soap film remover. The majority of soap film removers will work. If you’ve done everything else, but your granite countertops are still dull, you may need to try the ultimate fix: refinishing. It will help if you remember that the stone’s finish gives your countertops their shine. Cleaning, buffing, and polishing won’t restore a finish that has been damaged. It will require a new surface.

Granite can become dull for various reasons, including compounds that discolor the surface or grease and soap residue that builds up on the surface. Learn how to restore dull granite in this post.

See Also: Brown Granite Countertops

Table of Contents

How To Make Dull Granite Shine

Your granite countertops may look dull after years of regular use. It is a result of the natural stone’s characteristic shine fading with time. There are several techniques to restore dull granite surfaces.

Get Soap Film Off The Countertop

You can buy a variety of soap film removers that are safe for granite and can help your dull granite countertop regain some of its luster. These treatments effectively cover small and big areas, but only for light dullness brought on by soap and hard water deposits. Make sure to pick a pH-neutral product that is suitable for granite.

Many use a razor blade to delicately scrape across the stone in smaller, more challenging locations. When you scrape, the residue should immediately come off the stone. Sand the area next using extremely fine steel wool. The area around sinks and cooktops, where residue buildup is more frequent, generally benefits from this technique.

See Also: Ceramic Vs Granite Cookware

Apply Polishing Powder

Granite-polishing powder can erase surface etching from your dull granite countertops if it is the cause of its dullness. The powder’s light abrasiveness helps to remove any superficial blemishes, stains, and other buildups that may be causing the dull granite.

You must typically combine the powder with water before making a paste that you can apply to the granite with burlap or a felt pad. However, the polishing powder might only be effective on some granite surfaces, so read the manufacturer’s directions to ensure you can use it on your counter.

Using Acetone

The cause of your dull granite may be residue from grease, oil, soaps, or other products attached to the surface if it is close to your sink or stove. You may attempt to wash away with water and detergent.

Acetone can be used as a solvent if the stain is stubborn or oily and fails to remove. The acetone only needs to be applied to a soft cloth, blotted over the worn-out areas, scrubbed, and then rinsed with warm water.

Reseal

If the sealer coating on your granite countertop is etched, your granite surface may seem dull. But you can fix the countertop by resealing the granite if the stone’s surface beneath it is still in good shape. Use a sealer approved by the company that made or installed your counter, and ensure the surface is completely clean before using the sealer.

To apply it, you may use a rag or a spray bottle; be sure to go carefully and evenly coat the granite. Apply up to three more coats after the sealer completely dries to give your countertop the best protection.

Buy: Granite Gold Daily Cleaner and Sealer

Refinish

Suppose you’ve done everything possible, but the dull spot on the granite countertop is still present. The problem may be caused by acidic foods, drinks, or chemicals that significantly negatively impact the surface.

Because granite is a hard stone, you might be unable to repair or polish the damaged portions in this situation. It is best to engage a professional to take care of your countertop.

How Are Granite Countertops Maintained In Good Condition?

Routine cleaning will help keep your granite countertop looking fantastic, along with the procedures mentioned above. Numerous granite cleaning products can aid in preserving the beauty of your stone. Never use typical home cleaners like Windex, bleach, or other agents on your granite countertops. These products can harm natural stones. Also, do not perform any work that can harm your countertop.

FAQs

How can vinegar repair damage to granite?

Mix a little bit of rubbing alcohol and water in the spray bottle. It would help if you sprayed a little mixture onto the surface. To make the region shine, rub it with a soft cloth.

What DIY cleaning works best if my granite is dull?

Fill the spray bottle with 1.5 cups warm water, 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol, and 1/2 teaspoon dish soap. Dish soap's ability to dissolve grease and alcohol's ability to disinfect will work together to rid the granite surface of dirt and bacteria.

How can you get granite's oxidation off?

Applying a thick paste made of baking soda and water to the corroded region and keeping it on for at least 24 hours are options. Use a nylon brush or a special granite cleaning pad that is safe for stones.

What causes my granite to appear fuzzy?

When they are not properly maintained, granite countertops can form a hazy coating. Although cloudiness from cleaning can eventually be caused by hard water, abrasive cleaning products are most frequently used regularly. Never clean natural stone with acidic products, especially granite.

Which DIY cleaning for granite is the best?

Along with 1.5 cups of warm water, 1.5 teaspoons of dish soap, and 1.5 cups of rubbing alcohol, fill the spray container. Dish soap's ability to remove grease and dirt from surfaces and alcohol's ability to disinfect will work together to rid the granite surface of bacteria.

Conclusion

Most likely, when you bought your granite countertops, you thought they would endure forever. The experts who install granite countertops will inform you that while granite is more aesthetically pleasing than durable, you should treat it carefully so that it lasts. Be careful how you use and what you put on your granite surfaces because prevention is always better than cure.

If your granite becomes dull, you can keep it dazzling by wiping it down daily with a damp towel and buffing away any extra moisture. It will also allow you to catch any spills before they become stains. If you maintain your granite counters properly and give them frequent attention, they will last for a lifetime and will be the easiest surfaces in your house to clean. Updating your cleaning routine is a terrific method to keep your granite appearing new and glossy. Even though washing the surface with mild dish detergent, warm water, and a paper towel might be helpful for a quick cleanup, a granite cleaner like this one is necessary to provide a deeper, more thorough clean.