Basic Principles of Polishing Granite
- Before you grind your surface or add a finishing polish on your granite, make sure the area is clean and dry. Use a damp washcloth to clean the surface of your granite and allow it to dry.
- Rent or purchase various grits of diamond pads and a stone polisher or grinder. The grits should range from 50 to 3,000. Start on the lower grits to polish the surface and move up to the higher grits to give a nice, soft finish. Work with progressively finer grits so you can slowly hone the surface to bring out the beauty of the granite's coloring and light-refraction capabilities.
The lower grits are for grinding the surface to make it flat and uniform. The 120 to 220 grits close the pores of the stone. The 280 to 400 grits hone the surface. The 600 to 1,500 grits are considered pre-polishing, and anything above that is a polishing grit.
When you finish grinding, all surface irregularities should be smoothed out. If your granite has already been partially polished or ground, there is no need to use the lower grits. Work in small sections at a time and always wear safety gear (goggles, dust mask and ear protection) while polishing your granite. Use firm, even pressure but make sure to not hold the grinder in one place too long, otherwise you may get scratches or burn marks in the surface. Use sufficient water while grinding to make sure the grinding process goes smoothly. - Use a clean washcloth to apply granite polish. Work in small circles to apply the polish evenly across the entire surface. Use another clean washcloth to buff the surface after you have applied the polish. Always read your granite polish instructions and warning thoroughly before beginning.
- Use a granite sealant on your surface after you have used a stone grinder or polisher. Read instructions and warnings thoroughly before using. You will want to apply sealant annually to keep your surface looking shiny and new.
- Never use harsh, acidic or abrasive cleaners on granite. This includes citrus- and vinegar-based cleaners. These will remove the polish and sealant, leaving the granite surface looking dull. You want to use granite-safe cleaners. A mixture of baking soda and water is a safe, homemade cleaning option to help remove stains and dirt.
