Granite is a stunning, durable material that adds timeless elegance to any space—whether it’s in your kitchen, bathroom, or living area. But, like any surface, it’s not immune to the occasional scratch. Whether caused by a stray knife, a heavy pot, or even a misplaced object, a scratch on your granite can be frustrating. But don’t worry—before you decide to buy granite in Australia to replace your countertops, there are several simple ways to remove those scratches and restore your granite’s flawless shine. In this post, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to remove scratches from granite and keep it looking as beautiful as the day it was installed!
Removing scratches from granite surfaces
To remove scratches from granite surfaces effectively, you’ll need to follow the right process to restore the stone’s beauty without causing further damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you out:
- Assess the Scratch
First, determine the depth of the scratch. Light surface scratches can often be buffed out, while deeper ones might require more effort or professional help. - Clean the Surface
Before you start, clean the granite surface with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth. This ensures you don’t accidentally grind dirt into the scratch. - Use a Granite Repair Kit
For minor scratches, you can use a granite repair kit. These kits usually come with a polishing compound and a buffing pad that can help blend the scratch with the surrounding area. Follow the instructions on the kit carefully for best results. - Buffing with Fine Steel Wool or Sandpaper
If the scratch is a bit deeper, you can try using fine steel wool (around 0000 grade) or very fine sandpaper (600-800 grit). Lightly buff the scratched area in a circular motion, but be sure not to apply too much pressure. This method works well for shallow scratches. - Polish the Area
After buffing, you’ll need to polish the area. Use a granite polishing powder or a polishing compound to restore the glossy finish. Apply it with a soft cloth and rub it in a circular motion. Afterward, wipe away any excess with a clean, dry cloth. - Seal the Granite
If the scratch is still visible or you’ve done some extensive work on the surface, it might be a good idea to reseal your granite. Sealing helps protect the stone from future scratches and stains. - For Deeper Scratches—Professional Help
If you’ve tried the methods above and the scratch remains visible, it may be time to call in a professional. Deep scratches might require specialized equipment and techniques to polish the stone back to its original condition.
With these steps, you can remove most minor scratches from granite and keep your surfaces looking sleek.
Best granite polishing paste
When it comes to polishing granite, the right paste can make all the difference in restoring its shine and preserving its beauty. Let me break down some of the best options available on the market, as well as a simple method to create your own polishing paste at home.
Tenax Granite Polishing Paste
Best for: Deep shine and high-quality finish.
Why it’s great: Tenax is a well-known name in stone care, and their granite polishing paste is highly effective at restoring the glossy finish of your countertops. It’s easy to apply and provides a long-lasting shine.
Granite Gold Polish
Best for: Daily maintenance.
Why it’s great: This product is a favorite for routine care. It helps maintain granite’s natural luster without damaging the stone. It’s also non-toxic and safe to use on all granite surfaces.
MB Stone Care Granite Polishing Paste
Best for: High-gloss finish and professional results.
Why it’s great: This paste is designed to give granite surfaces a high-gloss finish without leaving residue. It’s perfect for restoring shine on surfaces that have dulled over time.
Stone Care International Granite Polishing Paste
Best for: Quick results and ease of use.
Why it’s great: This is an excellent all-in-one solution for polishing and protecting granite. It enhances color and provides a protective coating to help prevent future scratches and stains.
Swenson Granite Works Granite Polish
Best for: Extending granite’s lifespan.
Why it’s great: This paste is ideal for people who want to maintain their granite over the long term. It protects the stone from wear and tear while keeping it glossy and vibrant.
How to Make Granite Polishing Paste at Home
If you’re looking for a more DIY solution, you can make your own polishing paste using items you likely already have at home. Here’s a simple recipe:
DIY Granite Polishing Paste Recipe:
Ingredients:
- Baking soda
- Water
- A few drops of dish soap (optional)
- Soft cloth for application
Instructions:
- Mix Baking Soda and Water: Start by mixing 3 parts baking soda with 1 part water to create a thick paste. The paste should be spreadable but not too runny.
- Add Dish Soap (Optional): If you want a bit of extra cleaning power, you can add a few drops of mild dish soap to the mixture. This helps cut through any grease or grime that may be present on the surface.
- Apply the Paste: Use a soft cloth to apply the paste to the granite surface. Gently rub in circular motions to avoid causing any damage to the surface.
- Buff and Polish: After applying the paste, use a clean microfiber cloth to buff the granite. Continue polishing until the stone starts to shine and the paste is no longer visible.
- Final Wipe Down: Wipe off any excess paste with a dry, clean cloth.
Can you scratch granite with a knife?
Granite is one of the hardest natural stones, so it’s highly resistant to scratches. However, it is not completely immune. While a regular kitchen knife is unlikely to scratch granite, using a knife with a very hard or rough edge, or accidentally dropping a heavy object, can cause some minor damage. To prevent scratches, it’s best to use cutting boards when preparing food. If you do notice a scratch, it’s typically shallow and can be buffed out with the right tools.
Why Granite Gets Scratched?
Granite can get scratched due to the interaction between its surface and harder or abrasive materials. While granite itself is composed of minerals like quartz, feldspar, and mica, which are hard (about 6-7 on the Mohs hardness scale), it’s still vulnerable to certain actions:
- Harder Materials: If materials harder than granite, such as metal objects or diamonds, come into contact with the surface, they can cause abrasions.
- Sharp Objects: Knives, when used directly on granite without a cutting board, can sometimes leave marks, especially if dropped or dragged with force.
- Improper Cleaning Tools: Harsh scrubbing pads or abrasive cleaners can wear down the surface, leading to micro scratches.
How to prevent granite from getting scratched?
To prevent granite from getting scratched, here are some effective steps you can take:
- Use Cutting Boards: Always cut on a wooden, bamboo, or plastic cutting board rather than directly on the granite. This helps protect the surface from knife marks.
- Place Trivets or Mats: Use trivets or heat-resistant mats under hot pots and pans to avoid direct contact with the granite surface, which could cause abrasions or heat damage.
- Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Never use harsh cleaning agents or abrasive pads that could scratch the surface. Stick to pH-balanced cleaners and microfiber cloths for regular cleaning.
- Wipe Spills Immediately: While granite is stain-resistant, wiping up spills promptly helps prevent damage to the surface from acidic liquids like wine or lemon juice.
- Protect with a Sealant: Applying a granite sealant creates a protective layer that can help prevent scratches and stains.
- Be Mindful of Heavy Objects: Avoid dragging or dropping heavy objects on the granite, as this could cause chips or deep scratches.
By following these simple precautions, you’ll keep your granite surfaces looking pristine for years.
Are granite scratches permanent?
Granite scratches are not necessarily permanent. Shallow scratches can often be buffed out or polished with the right tools and products, such as granite repair kits or polishing pastes. However, deeper scratches may require professional repair or resurfacing to fully restore the stone. It’s important to act quickly and assess the scratch’s depth to determine the best approach. Regular sealing and proper care can also help prevent future scratches.
How do you get marks off granite?
To remove marks from granite, try these alternative methods:
- Hydrogen Peroxide Paste: Mix hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of ammonia and apply it to stains. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then wipe clean. This works well for organic stains.
- Rubbing Alcohol Solution: Combine equal parts water and isopropyl alcohol with a few drops of dish soap. Spray and wipe to remove grease marks and restore shine.
- Poultice Method: For stubborn stains, mix baking soda and water into a thick paste, apply it to the mark, cover with plastic wrap, and let it sit overnight before wiping off.
How to get scratches out of a granite sink?
To remove scratches from a granite sink, try these alternative methods:
- Granite Refinishing Pads: Use a fine-grit diamond sanding pad (800–1500 grit) to gently buff out scratches. Work in circular motions and rinse frequently.
- Acrylic or Epoxy Resin Repair: For deeper scratches, apply a color-matched epoxy or acrylic resin, let it cure, then polish for a smooth finish.
- Automotive Rubbing Compound: Apply a small amount of rubbing compound with a microfiber cloth to buff out minor scratches and restore shine.
- Olive Oil Treatment: For superficial marks, rub a few drops of olive oil to temporarily reduce their appearance.
How do you touch up granite countertops?
Touching up granite countertops involves addressing both minor surface imperfections and restoring the overall appearance. Start by cleaning the countertop thoroughly to remove dust and debris, as a clean surface ensures the touch-up products adhere properly. For small chips or cracks, you can use a color-matched granite repair kit, which includes epoxy resin or glue designed to blend with the stone’s natural pattern. Apply the resin carefully to the damaged area and let it cure as directed. Once dry, lightly sand the area with fine sandpaper (around 400 grit) to smooth it out. Afterward, polish the entire surface using a granite polishing compound to restore its shine and enhance the color. For water spots or mineral deposits, you can use a mixture of vinegar and water to break them down before polishing. To finish, seal the countertop again with a granite sealer to protect the stone from future stains and scratches. These steps help you maintain a pristine, well-maintained granite surface.
