Granite
Flawless granite countertops, restored to their original beauty by the experts at Pellegrino Stone Countertop Services.
Granite countertops are prized for their natural beauty, exceptional hardness, and durability. This igneous stone, forged deep in the earth, can withstand heat and resists scratches better than most countertop materials. Unlike softer stones like marble, granite typically won’t suffer dull acid etch marks from a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. Its dense, speckled surface adds a touch of luxury to any kitchen or bathroom, whether in a coastal San Diego home or a modern Los Angeles high-rise. However, even this resilient surface isn’t completely maintenance-free. Over time, regular use and exposure can lead to a variety of issues that diminish the look of your granite counters.
Common Granite Countertop Issues We Address:
Stains and Discoloration: Without proper sealing, substances like oil, wine, or juice can seep in and leave stains on granite.
Dull or Cloudy Appearance: Residue from incorrect cleaning products (like regular dish soap or glass cleaners) can build up, making granite look hazy or lifeless.
Chips and Cracks: Heavy impacts or stress (often around sink cutouts or edges) can cause chips or hairline cracks in the granite surface.
Old or Worn Sealer: Over the years, the protective sealant can wear off, leading to darker wet spots and higher risk of staining.
Fortunately, Pellegrino Stone Countertop Services specializes in granite countertop restoration to tackle all these problems. We blend professionalism and expertise with an accessible, customer-focused approach – equally at home rejuvenating a luxury granite kitchen island in Las Vegas or fixing up a practical countertop for a San Diego remodeler. Our skilled technicians will bring back the color, shine, and smooth finish of your granite, making it look and feel like new again. Below, we detail our comprehensive granite restoration and maintenance services.
Deep Cleaning
Even the toughest granite needs periodic deep cleaning to remove embedded grime and bacteria. Daily wiping keeps surface dirt at bay, but over time oils, soap films, and stuck-on gunk can settle into the microscopic pores of the stone. Our granite countertop deep cleaning service uses professional-grade, pH-neutral cleaners and steam-based techniques to extract this build-up safely and effectively. We target grease around cooking areas, soap or hard water residue around sinks, and any mildew in damp spots. By gently agitating and flushing out contaminants, we restore the granite’s original color and clarity.
Deep cleaning not only makes your counters look refreshed, it also creates a clean foundation for the next steps like polishing or sealing. A thorough cleanse ensures no staining agents remain trapped in the stone and that the surface is perfectly prepped to accept a new sealant. The result is a sanitized, hygienic countertop (a must for kitchen food-prep areas) and a return of the granite’s natural sparkle. Whether it’s a busy family kitchen in Los Angeles or a vacation home in San Diego, our team will leave your granite impeccably clean and ready to impress.
Polishing
Granite’s appeal is often in its glossy, light-reflecting polish that reveals the depth of its minerals. Over the years, however, that high-gloss finish can turn dull. Foot traffic isn’t an issue for countertops, but chopping, sliding pots and pans, and general wear can create micro-scratches that mar the shine. Additionally, using the wrong cleaners can leave a filmy layer that dulls the surface. Our granite polishing service revives and enhances your countertop’s appearance by grinding and buffing the surface with progressively finer abrasives. We use specialized polishing pads and powders formulated for granite’s hardness to achieve a lustrous result.
Polishing does more than make your countertop shiny – it restores the smooth texture, which helps highlight the rich colors and patterns in your stone. A polished granite surface also repels water and spills better and is easier to keep clean daily. Our technicians are trained in the nuances of polishing granite (a much harder stone than marble), so we can achieve a like-new mirror finish without damage. In fact, not every stone contractor is equipped to polish granite correctly, since its hardness requires specialized skills and equipment. Pellegrino’s experts have the experience to tackle granite polishing safely, whether it’s a small bathroom vanity or an expansive kitchen countertop. You’ll be amazed as we bring back the glossy sheen your granite had when it was first installed.
Sealing
One of the most important steps in granite maintenance is sealing. Granite may be dense and durable, but most varieties are still porous to some degree. This means that without a proper seal, spills can penetrate and cause stains or dark spots. We apply a premium impregnating sealer after cleaning (and polishing, if done) to soak into the stone and bond below the surface. This invisible protection dramatically reduces the granite’s absorbency, so liquids bead up instead of soaking in. When countertops are properly sealed, the chances of staining are greatly reduced.
How often does granite need to be sealed? It depends on usage and the type of granite. Many professionals recommend sealing granite countertops about once a year for a busy kitchen, and perhaps every 1–2 years for lower-traffic areas. In practice, lighter-colored or more porous granite may need annual sealing, whereas very dense dark granite could go longer between treatments. Our team will assess your particular countertops and recommend an optimal sealing schedule. We use high-quality, oliophobic sealants (resistant to water- and oil-based stains) that can last for years when properly applied. Regular sealing not only protects against stains but also makes day-to-day cleaning easier, as the seal prevents dirt and spills from gripping onto the stone. Pellegrino Stone Countertop Services even offers advanced sealing options for maximum longevity, giving you peace of mind that your granite surfaces in San Diego, Los Angeles, or Las Vegas are safeguarded against life’s messes.
Diamond Honing
While not always needed for granite, diamond honing is a technique we have at the ready for more severe cases of damage or when a different finish is desired. Honing involves using industrial-grade diamond abrasive pads to grind the stone’s surface, removing a very thin top layer. This process levels out scratches, etch marks, or worn areas by literally smoothing them away. Granite is extremely hard, so honing it requires expertise – but our specialists have the tools to hone granite when necessary. We typically perform diamond honing on granite countertops to eliminate deep scratches or surface imperfections that polishing alone can’t fix. It’s also the method used if a client prefers to change a polished granite surface to a honed (matte) finish for a softer, low-gloss look.
Most granite counters won’t need full resurfacing frequently, since granite resists wear so well. In fact, many popular granites never require extensive honing during their lifetime. However, if your countertop has significant damage (for example, an area that turned dull due to an abrasive chemical, or a section with slight uneven texture), targeted honing can work wonders. By running through multiple grit levels of diamond pads, we methodically smooth out the problem areas. After honing, the granite will have a satin-smooth, matte surface; if a glossy finish is desired, we follow up by polishing it to the appropriate shine. Diamond honing is a specialized service – but when it’s needed, it can save you from having to replace the countertop entirely by erasing years of damage. Trust our team to advise honestly on when honing is worthwhile for your granite, and to execute it with precision when called for.
Crack & Chip Repair
Granite is tough, but life happens – a heavy pot dropped on the counter or a hard object knocked against an edge can result in an unsightly chip. Likewise, stress around sink cut-outs or support rods can sometimes lead to hairline cracks (for instance, it’s common to see a crack extending from a weakened area by a sink or cooktop). The good news is that you don’t need to replace your granite countertops if they crack or chip. We offer expert granite repair services to fix these issues seamlessly. Using color-matched epoxy resins and fillers, our technicians can fill chips, repair cracks, and restore structural integrity to the stone.
Our repair process begins with cleaning out the chipped or cracked area and mixing a custom-tinted resin to blend with your granite’s pattern. We then fill the void and allow the epoxy to cure and harden. Once set, the repaired spot is carefully honed and polished flush with the surrounding surface, rendering the repair nearly invisible to the naked eye. Edges that were rough or broken become smooth again, and cracks are stabilized to prevent spreading. Common repair scenarios include fixing chipped corners on an island, filling pits or voids that opened up, and mending fissures near sinks. After our repairs, you can run your hand over the countertop and feel nothing but a continuous, even surface. The visual blemish will be dramatically reduced as well – often you’ll have to search hard to remember where the damage was. By addressing chips and cracks promptly, you also prevent moisture from infiltrating those areas and causing stains or further issues. Our crack and chip repairs are a cost-effective way to extend the life of your granite countertops, keeping them looking pristine in your Las Vegas outdoor BBQ area or your Los Angeles kitchen alike.
Stain & Etch Removal
One of granite’s advantages over marble is that it’s highly resistant to acids – so you won’t typically get the classic “etch” rings from citrus or vinegar that plague marble surfaces. True granites (composed mostly of quartz and feldspar) rarely etch or dull from ordinary household acids. However, there are a few cases where what homeowners call an “etch” or dull spot might appear on granite. In some instances, very acidic cleaners or chemicals left on the surface could affect certain minerals or the polish. Also, some dark stones sold as “granite” can have mixed mineral content that is slightly acid-sensitive. If you’ve noticed a light matte spot or a mark on your granite that doesn’t wipe away, our team can evaluate it. Usually, light honing and polishing will remove any etch-like spot and restore the shine, since the mark is typically superficial. Because etching on granite is so uncommon, we will ensure to verify the cause (often what appears to be etching may just be a soap film or hard water deposit, which our deep cleaning can fix). Rest assured, if your granite has lost its gloss in any area, we have the techniques to bring back a uniform finish.
Stains are a more frequent concern with granite. Even though granite is somewhat stain-resistant, certain spills can seep in if the stone is not sealed or if a spill is left sitting for a long time. Common granite stains include oil darkening the stone, wine or coffee leaving a colored spot, or rust from metal objects. Our stain removal process typically involves using a poultice treatment – a special absorbent paste that we apply to the stained area. This poultice draws out the deeply embedded oils or pigments over time. It may take an application or two for tough stains, but it is very effective at lifting out discoloration from the pores of the stone. After treating the stain, we will clean and refinish that spot as needed (polishing it up if the process dulls it slightly, and resealing afterward). In the end, your granite’s color and pattern will be restored evenly. We also address water spots or mineral deposits that can leave a shadowy mark – these are usually removed with targeted cleaners and a light polish. With professional attention, even a badly stained or mildly etched granite countertop can be rejuvenated. We’ll make sure your granite’s rich hues and shine come through uniformly, free of blotches or dull patches.
FAQ: Maintenance & Preventative Care
Q: How often should I seal my granite countertops?
A: We recommend sealing your granite countertops about once every 1 to 2 years in most cases. If your kitchen sees heavy daily use (lots of cooking, spills, and cleaning), an annual seal is a good idea. For bathrooms or areas you don’t use as much, you might stretch it to every other year. Keep in mind that some types of granite, especially light-colored or more porous varieties, can benefit from yearly sealing, whereas very dense dark granite might not absorb much and can go longer between treatments. The safest approach is to observe how water behaves on your granite: if you notice water no longer beads up and instead starts to soak in and darken the stone, that’s a sign it’s time to reseal. Our team can set up a maintenance plan for San Diego, Los Angeles, or Las Vegas clients to re-seal on a proper schedule, ensuring your counters stay protected.
By knowing the facts behind these myths, you can take better care of your granite countertops. In short: granite is tough and long-lasting, but not invincible. A little mindful care goes a long way. With proper sealing, gentle cleaning, and the occasional professional touch-up from Pellegrino Stone Countertop Services, your granite surfaces will stay gorgeous and glossy for decades, whether enduring the humid salt air of San Diego, the hustle of a Los Angeles kitchen, or the dry heat of a Las Vegas summer.
Q: Can granite countertops get stained or damaged by spills?
A: Granite is quite stain-resistant, especially when properly sealed, but it isn’t 100% stain-proof. If spills are left to sit for too long on an unsealed area, they can sometimes seep in. For example, cooking oil, wine, coffee, or fruit juice can leave a dark or colored spot if not wiped up. The key is having a good seal in place and cleaning spills quickly. A sealed granite counter will usually repel liquids, buying you time to clean up. In the rare event a stain does occur, it’s usually removable with professional poulticing (as we discussed above in our Stain Removal section). As for other types of damage: what about acids or etching? Generally, you don’t have to worry about acidic foods or drinks etching granite – unlike marble, granite won’t typically get dull spots from lemons, vinegar, or cola because it’s not composed of calcite. Most granite is impervious to mild acids. However, extremely strong chemicals (like paint strippers or drain cleaners) could potentially etch or discolor even granite, so those should be kept off your counters. In summary, normal kitchen acids won’t harm true granite, and stains are uncommon if you maintain the sealant and clean up messes. Granite’s durability is one of the reasons it’s so popular in kitchens from Los Angeles to Las Vegas – it can handle a busy household’s spills with ease.
Q: What’s the best way to clean granite countertops on a daily basis?
A: For everyday cleaning, use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and a gentle pH-neutral cleaner. A few drops of a mild dish soap in warm water works well for quick wipe downs. Better yet, use a cleanser specifically formulated for natural stone – these cleaners clean effectively without stripping the sealant or leaving residues. Avoid harsh or acidic cleaners on granite. Stay away from vinegar, bleach, ammonia-based products (like typical glass cleaners), or abrasive powders. These can degrade the sealant and in some cases cause a dull film or even slight etching on certain stones. Also skip rough scrub pads that might scratch. Instead, use a soft microfiber cloth. For disinfecting, you can use a diluted isopropyl alcohol solution (50/50 with water) sprayed on the surface, then wiped clean – this will sanitize without harming the granite. By sticking to gentle cleaners, you’ll keep your granite countertop shiny and prevent any hazy buildup. And of course, wipe up spills promptly with a soft cloth, especially oils or acidic liquids, so they don’t have time to soak in.
Q: What if I want a more durable finish?
A: Ask us about our Anti-Etch coating, a revolutionary solution that helps protect marble against acids and staining. It’s especially popular for bar tops and high-traffic kitchen counters.
Q: What are some common myths about granite countertop maintenance?
A: There are a few misconceptions out there about granite. Let’s clear up the big ones:
“Granite is maintenance-free.” – Myth. While granite is certainly low maintenance compared to many other materials, it isn’t completely maintenance-free. It still benefits from periodic sealing and proper cleaning. Think of granite like your car: very durable, but you still change the oil. A little upkeep will keep it looking its best long-term.
“Granite doesn’t need sealing because it’s so hard.” – Myth. Hardness (resistance to scratching) is not the same as porosity. Granite’s hardness comes from its mineral composition (making it scratch-resistant and durable), but many granites do have tiny pores that can absorb liquids. That’s why even though your countertop is rock-hard, it still should be sealed to block stains. Some dense black granites might be almost non-porous, but most others will darken with water if unsealed, indicating they can take in moisture.
“Any cleaner is fine on granite.” – Myth. Many people assume since granite is a rock, you can use any cleaning product on it. In reality, acidic or abrasive cleaners can damage the stone’s finish or degrade the sealant. For example, using vinegar or bleach regularly can lead to a dull surface over time. It’s best to stick to pH-neutral cleaners as mentioned earlier.
“If my granite gets a chip or crack, it’s ruined.” – Myth. Chips and cracks in granite can almost always be repaired by professionals without needing to replace the whole countertop. As we described above, we can fill and fix chips so they virtually disappear. Granite is far from ruined just because of a small blemish – restoration techniques can make it like it never happened.
Ready to give your granite countertops the care they deserve?
Contact Pellegrino Stone Countertop Services today for expert granite restoration, polishing, and repair in San Diego, Los Angeles, or Las Vegas.
Let us help you preserve the natural luxury of your granite and keep your countertops looking their absolute best!
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