"Hal is a bit of a character and drives an old truck, but he is very pleasant and takes great pride in his workmanship. One of the few times in our history of several home projects where a project has exceeded our expectations."
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.
You generally cannot change the color of the natural stone, such as making granite countertops darker or lighter. Some people claim that certain chemicals will lighten or darken granite, but those will damage the stone and not provide uniform, expected results, so it’s better not to try. Similarly, some people ask whether they can stain over granite. Granite is beloved for its stain-resistant finish, so you probably won’t get the best outcome if you try to stain over granite to make it darker.
Instead, consider honing, painting, or applying another material over the top of the granite to make it appear darker.
It is advisable to have stone countertops inspected every few years, especially if damage is noticed. Regular maintenance and inspection help catch and resolve issues early, extending the countertops' lifespan.
Yes, baking soda does shine marble. Sprinkle it directly on the marble and let it sit for about five minutes, then wipe it clean with a damp microfiber cloth. If you’d like to make a baking soda paste, then simply mix the baking soda with equal parts water and apply it. You can also add baking soda and dishwashing liquid to a bucket of warm water and mop a marble surface.
You can cut granite countertops after installing them, but you need to consider the mess it will make. Dust will be everywhere, and lots of protective gear will be required. On top of that, you will need to measure meticulously to make sure the cuts you make are perfect; otherwise, you’ll be stuck having to replace the entire slab of granite, which is a much bigger job.
The Wheaton, MN homeowners’ guide to granite restoration services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Granite countertops last 15 to 100 years based on usage and maintenance. Here’s how long your granite countertops will last and ways to increase their lifespan.