Granite is a very tough surface, but when something heavy and pointed falls on it, a chip or crack is possible.
The good news is that there are outstanding products on the market that offer DIY granite countertop repair with professional results.
Chips and Cracks in Granite Countertops
Chips are the result of objects hitting the granite. Cracks usually occur from stress on the countertop. In most cases, the countertop is fastened too tightly, and the stress leads to a crack. Another type of crack is a fissure, a naturally occurring separation in the granite. Stress cracks typically create an uneven surface; fissures have been there since the granite formed. They should be level as a result of the fabrication process, and that’s a good way to tell them apart from a crack.
Repairing Granite Countertop Cracks: Fixing the Cause
The first thing that must be done for a granite crack is to relieve the stress that produced it, so that the crack doesn’t worsen even after the repair has been made.
From beneath the countertop surface, locate the fasteners closest to the crack. Loosen them one or two turns to take the stress off without making the counter loose. The countertop fit should be snug but not tight.
Filling Granite Chips and Cracks
Choose one of the quality granite repair products from leading brands like Tenax, Stoneweld or LiquiGlass. Most of these epoxy products are clear. Tints are available too. Buy the tint color closest to your countertop color and also purchase tint slightly lighter and slightly darker too.
These granite repair kits have very clear and thorough instructions to follow. However, to help you decide whether to try DIY granite repair or to call a pro, here is an overview of the basics.
Step 1: Pour out a small amount of epoxy onto a ceramic tile or plate. Add tint and mix until you have something very close to the main color in your granite.
Step 2: Use the applicator sticks to fill the crack or chip with your epoxy mix and smooth it out.
Step 3: Some kits include a product that quickens the hardening of the epoxy. If your kit contains this catalyst, apply it now.
Step 4: Use a razor blade to remove excess epoxy from the granite surrounding the chip or crack, preferably before the epoxy fully hardens.
Repairing Broken Granite
It isn’t common, but occasionally a corner will be broken off a granite countertop. The same epoxy you use for chips and cracks might be suitable to glue the corner back into place. Read the instructions for details. If it’s not designed for the vertical surface repair, locate Allstone Instant Install 29 Minute epoxy, specifically designed for this type of work. Follow the simple instructions to reattach the broken granite piece.
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