One of the key benefits of having natural stone tiles or countertops is that they can be refurbished back to its original condition. Marble and Granite countertops are installed as rock-solid slabs that are either a one and a quarter inch thick or three-fourths an inch thick. Either of these thicknesses can be refurbished back to its original high polish sheen. Any chips, minor cracks or pits can be filled with custom-colored splash and then polished and buffed to mix together in with the stone throughout restoration.
Natural stone restoration is generally seen in older buildings and homes that have had marble or granite for more than twenty years and have been subjected to heavy use and wear and tear on regular basis. With the passage of time, granite countertops, particularly in the kitchen, start to dull under normal prepping and cooking of foods. Some acidic liquids such as vinegar, wine and citrus juice can etch the polished surface of marble and granite making it dull. Several household cleaners also have harsh chemicals in them that can slowly dull the surface with daily use. Only cleaners particularly made from diluted mild dish soap should be used on marble and granite countertop in order to prevent dulling. Many granite fabricators have the ability to restore natural stone.
With the popularity of marble and granite countertops over the last few decades, there are several restoration companies that perform the professional work exclusively. Many office buildings and hotels are finished-out with natural marble and granite tiles, normally twelve by twelve inches in size, from the earlier 1900′s to nowadays. Many of the natural stone walls and floors that were installed over fifty years ago need some sort of restoration as the surface gets dulled owing to normal years of cleaning and foot traffic. In historical premises, it is normal to replace grout, fill cracks and chips, and re-polish the surface. One instance of a recent leading historical renovation was performed at Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston just in time for their 100 years anniversary celebrations. These restorations were a larger portion of the approximately 20 millions in total renovations.
It is incredible to notice the difference in marble or granite after it has been freshly restored. An etched and dull countertop can be polished and buffed back to its original magnificence with the right tools. Not only does restoring a polished stone surface look newer and cleaner, but it also supports the stone to resist stains better and makes the surface more resilient. A sealed and well-polished marble or granite countertop wears better with the passage of time and make it much easier to keep maintained and clean.
Dull marble or granite is much more susceptible to staining and foods incline to stick more readily. Very well-maintained natural stone countertops and even flooring tiles can last the life of the premises, and under several circumstances even longer. Solid marble and granite countertops can be used again in new application with cautious removal, customized fabrication to fit the new cabinets, and some restoration.
