Can a stone surface as hard as granite or marble be repaired once it is damaged? Over the past decade in particular, the use of granite and other stone for countertops in kitchens and bathrooms has grown tremendously. Many people admire granite countertops because of the durability and resistance to damage, but the fact is that even granite can fall into disrepair, acquire stains, or become dull over time. However, it is possible to repair and restore granite, marble, and many other stones using the right techniques. Here are the basics on what can be accomplished with a professional stone repair.

Stain Removal: While granite is extremely hard and durable, it is also porous and can be stained if it has not been properly sealed. You may see granite with rings from where a glass was placed down, or stains from coffee, wine, mustard, or other substances that sat for too long and seeped into the stone. A stone repair contractor uses a chemical treatment which actually extracts the stain from the stone, a process which may take overnight, but which can leave the stone like new.

Repair: If a stone has chips, scratches, or other textural damage, a restoration can include repair of these problems. Obviously the extent of the repair would depend on the degree of damage, but many small chips and scratches can actually be easily fixed by working and smoothing the stone.

Sealing: Granite and other stones should be sealed to provide protection against stains, wear and tear, and heat damage. Typically a silicone-based substance is heated up and applied to the surface, drawing the sealer into the stone to form a layer of protection. This process also leaves the stone with a high gloss finish, and can make old stone look new again.

Waxing: Usually one of the final steps of stone restoration involves applying a high-quality wax to the surface of the granite and buffing it with steel wool pads. This leaves a very high-gloss shine on marble and granite, and prevents dulling, glass rings, and smudges from fingerprints. It also leaves a countertop much easier to clean, as water will bead on the surface of the stone.