How do I Repair Granite?

The first step before doing any granite repair is to make sure that repair is actually needed. For example, what looks like cracks in granite may just be veins or fissures in the natural stone, so it's always a good idea for both the buyer and the seller to thoroughly examine granite tile flooring or granite purchased for a countertop. When cracks, chips and stains occur accidentally during use, it's often possible to repair. It's important to make granite repairs as soon as possible because cracks may spread.

Epoxy resin glue in colors to match granite countertops or tiles is available in home improvement and tile stores. This stone epoxy can usually repair a granite countertop or tile that has cracks or chips caused by dropping an object on the stone. It's best to get an experienced stone worker to do the repairs, but you may be able to repair granite yourself with step-by-step instructions. A window scraper may be used to carefully scrape off excess epoxy so that the repaired countertop or tile looks neat.

Polyester resin may be used instead of the epoxy to repair granite tile or a countertop. It may be easier to work with than epoxy, since the polyester dries faster. When using either the epoxy or the polyester resin, it's a good idea to test the product in an out of the way place on the granite. If a large section of granite is badly damaged or scratched, a granite sanding and polishing kit may work, but this should be done by a stone care professional for best results. Sanding and re-polishing is often an expensive way to fix granite and it may not even work — the only option then may be to replace the whole piece of stone.

If you have a granite countertop that includes an overhang section, such as a breakfast bar, the section should be well supported with brackets underneath. Otherwise, the pressure from people leaning on the overhang could cause the granite to crack. Another preventive measure to take against granite repair is to make sure that contractors installing granite countertops fit the seams together well. Large gaps between the seams may be difficult to repair, and countertop installation shouldn't result in any gaping at any seam.

Proper care of stone countertops and floors, following manufacturer's directions, can prevent the need for granite repair and avoid damaging the natural material. For instance, some countertops require a sealant, but sealants used on stone that shouldn't be sealed may cause discoloration that looks like a stain. Any staining item, such as cola, coffee, tea or mustard, that could stain a granite floor or countertop should be wiped up immediately. While bleach, rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide can be used sparingly to remove stains, ammonia-based products should not be used at all on granite.