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In most cases, chipped or cracked granite can be salvaged, but it depends on the size and scope of the damage. For example, a pro can smooth out small chips on the edge with polish pads or an angle grinder, but a crack that runs through the stone's surface has little-to-no chance of being fixed easily.

It depends on the material. Sandstone, slate, and granite can be slippery in wet weather. Applying a sealant to the stone can often stop it from absorbing moisture and may reduce the likelihood of slipping. If you're concerned about losing footing, a safer option might be bluestone or concrete.

If you would rather use vinegar to clean the stone fireplace instead of dish soap, this mixture should work fine. Vinegar is slightly acidic, however, so it may etch some kinds of stone without quite a bit of diluting. For a stone fireplace, dilute it to about one cup of vinegar for every gallon of hot water. It’s a smart idea to test the diluted mixture in an inconspicuous area of the fireplace and watch for etching. You can use vinegar to clean quite a few different items around your home, and it’s especially good at removing stains.

The best cleaning method to use for your project will depend on the specifics of that project. However, sandblasting does come with the risk of damaging the surface you’re trying to clean. One safer alternative to sandblasting is laser cleaning, which can remove many of the same contaminants with a lower risk of damage and a lower overall cost.