Granite countertops can add elegance and sophistication to any kitchen or bathroom, and they’re not only beautiful but extremely durable and low-maintenance. But, since no material in the world is indestructible, its surface can look dull and seem to have lost its shine after a while.
Dullness on granite can happen for a lot of reasons, such as substances that can stain the surface or residue from grease and soap that build up on the surface. If you want to know how to fix dull granite, this is the guide for you.
Need some more tips on how to take care of your granite countertop? Then check our definitive guide on granite countertops!
How to fix dull granite?
Fortunately, this is one of the easiest problems involving granite to solve, and there are a few ways to fix dull granite countertops.
With polishing powder
If your granite dullness is light, a granite-polishing powder can be enough to fix it, since it can remove shallow scratches, stains, and other residues that can be the cause for granite to look faded and dull.
Using polish powder is very simple, you normally mix it with water to create a paste and you spread it over the dull spots.
With acetone
If your granite’s dullness is closer to your sink or stove, the cause might be remains of grease, oil, soap, or any other product that is stuck on the surface.
The first thing you can do is try to remove with water and detergent. If it doesn’t come off, you can use acetone, the product works as a solvent and is very good at dissolving tough greasy stains.
All you need to do is pour the acetone on a soft cloth and apply it over the dull areas, then scrub it and rinse with warm water.
Reseal
One of the main reasons that granite countertops start to dull is because the sealant is coming off. If the stone is in good condition, you can simply fix the problem by resealing it.
Before you seal, just make sure to clean the surface and use the right product for your type of granite. If you have no idea how to seal granite countertops, take a look at our how to seal granite guide.
Refinish
If you tried everything and your granite stills looks dull, the cause might be acidic substances, liquids, or foods that affected the surface deeply.
In this case, the affected areas must be refinished or repolished, since granite is a hard stone, you might not be able to do this alone. The best option is to hire a professional to take care of your countertop.
What causes dull granite?
Soap or cleaner coating
The most common cause for dullness is when soap or another type of cleaner isn’t washed properly, leaving a film on the surface that ends up dulling the stone. As mentioned earlier, acetone can solve the problem.
Abrasive cleaning products
Abrasive products like ammonia and bleach are not recommended for natural stone countertops. They can remove the coat of sealant (if there is any) and damage the slab.
Acidic foods or liquids
Even spilled acidic food and drinks can lead to a dull granite, especially citric fruits and vegetables, like lemons and tomatoes. The best way to prevent this is by always using a cutting board and, of course, sealing (if you have white granite, sealing is highly recommended).
Improper sealing
It’s not unusual for dullness to appear because of improper sealing, which happens when the sealer drys on the surface and ends up creating a mist. If you see the dull appearing a little bit after sealing your granite, this can be the cause.
Improper cleaning products
Would you use hand soap to clean the dishes? No, right? That same logic can be applied to stones and countertops. Granite is very durable, but that doesn’t mean you can clean it with everything. Using improper cleaning products can lead to a dull surface.
Unlike abrasive products, like ammonia or bleach, they don’t necessarily harm or ruin the granite, but they do leave a film. So, by far, the best choice is cleaning granite with products that are specially made for your variety or sticking with neutral detergent.
Count on professionals to help you out!
If you’re having trouble with your granite or other natural stone surfaces and you live around Sarasota in Florida, you can count on our help. Just reach out to us and our stone and granite experts will be happy to assist you!
