How Fix Chips in Marble or Granite Countertops
Granite is one of the most expensive yet sophisticated materials you can use as a countertop. That is why; I won’t be astonished when your heart dropped a bit when you see a chip on top of it. Being a highly durable material at home, granite countertops can also get into the damage when it is used for a longer time. If you think buying a new one in our current economy won’t fit your budget, then hiring a professional service is the best option once the damage is huge.
However, if you think you’re a DIY repair-savvy and want to overhaul a chip in your granite countertop for small issues, here are the tips you may want to consider.
Step 1: Clean the Area near the Damaged Chips
Use acetone or a nail polish remover in cleaning the area. If you don’t have this cleaning solution, you can mix the warm water with mild soap in a bucket to clean the area. Make sure that the area found around the chip is cleaned well, so it won’t cause any trouble for the following procedure.
Step 2: Darken the Stone
Darken the stone with the same colored Sharpie if you found out that the chip area is a bit lighter compared to the countertops. This should be permanent.
Step 3: Isolate the Chipped Area
Using masking tape, protect the areas that surround the countertop. Leave a visible space where the damage is to be fixed.
Step 4: Apply Glue or Epoxy to the Chipped Area
Apply an adequate amount of super glue or epoxy to the chipped area. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions you found on the product.
Step 5: Let the Solution Stay for Hours
Before you remove anything on the surface, allow the glue or epoxy solution to cure. Depending on the deepness of the chip, the size of the damage, or the humidity of your house, the time may vary. Let it stay for a few hours to make sure its best result.
Step 6: Remove the Tape and the Excess
When the glue sticks for a few hours and when it is ready for the final touch, remove the tape you applied all over the surface surrounding the chip. Then carefully use a razor to remove the excess glue. Use your countertop as your guide, and then shave it off using the back and forth motion. This would only take a few minutes and it can barely become noticeable when you are done on it.
Step 7: Apply Sealer on the Surface
Coat the repaired area of the damage in the sealer once the mixture of glue or epoxy is completely dried out. Some are recommending applying it usually 24 hours right after the glue or epoxy is placed. The sealer will help in restoring the beauty of the chipped countertop and it gives added protection to the area.
To ensure that you are having a safe repair, consider some safety measures, like being vigilant to the elements that easily catch fire, elements that can be poisonous, and other factors. Like I said, if repairing your granite countertop is hard to handle, consider the help that professionals can provide.
Thank you MarblePolishingServices.com for letting us use your photos.
