It is one of the most popular materials used in homes and business establishments in countertops, flooring, and many other uses because of its toughness. However, like all other natural stones, granite has its own weaknesses that make it vulnerable to harm. Crazing on granite floors may result from various factors such as impact, wear, mistakes made during installation among others. The good news is that most cracks in granite are repairable and herein is a brief guide that will assist you in getting a deeper understanding of this process.
Understanding Granite Cracks
It will be important to understand the various types of cracks that may be experienced on granite before going further to look at the repair methods. There are two main types:There are two main types:
Hairline Cracks
They are fine cracks that are usually very thin and may only be distinguished with the use of the naked eye. They are normally stress originated and they do not compromise the strength of the granite in any way.
Fissures
They are natural defects in the stone and may appear as cracks but they are actually part of the stone’s formation process. Most of the time, they do not affect the stonework’s hardness.
Full Cracks
These are far more detrimental and are capable of weakening the structure of the granite. These are generally the outcomes of a shock or pressure on the stone.
Repairing Granite Cracks
Hairline Cracks
Slightly cracked granite can be repaired with ease as it involves only hairline cracks. These small chips can be easily repaired by using a matching epoxy or resin to fill the cracks. The process typically involves:
Cleaning the Area
Cleaning the surface of the material that is cracked is an important step to undertake.
Applying the Epoxy
First apply a suitable epoxy or resin for the crack and do this carefully.
Smoothing the Surface
After applying the epoxy it should be leveled before the epoxy starts to set so that is merges with the rest of the granite.
Polishing
Once the epoxy is hardened, it is recommended that the surface be polished in order to return it to its previous glossy state.
Fissures
As fractures are normal and in most cases do not need addition or repair, the tendency is made towards beautification. You can enhance the appearance of fissures by:You can enhance the appearance of fissures by:
Cleaning and Sealing
To maintain the pristine state of your granite, clean it often and ensure it is sealed properly.
Polishing
The cracks can be less obvious if the granite is polished to give the material a smoother and more appealing texture.
Full Cracks
Fixing full-face cracks in granite is a bit cumbersome and may warrant the services of manufacturers like United Granite store. The process generally involves:
Assessing the Damage
Often, a professional will estimate the degree of the damage in order to find out the most effective way to repair it.
Epoxy Injection
When the cracks are bigger, a much more rigid epoxy or resin is used to glue the granite parts together.
Clamping
The granite pieces are then firmly placed together in a way that is tight to ensure that there is a tight hold while the epoxy is hardening.
Refinishing
After the granite has been broken, the area is sanded and polished to fit the other parts of the granite surface.
Preventing Future Cracks
While granite is incredibly durable, taking preventive measures can help avoid future cracks:While granite is incredibly durable, taking preventive measures can help avoid future cracks:
Proper Installation
Make sure that you get it well installed so that there are no stressing points that cause cracks on the granite.
Regular Maintenance
Always clean and seal your granite to keep its strength and durability as well as its shiny look intact.
Avoid Heavy Impacts
Do not put too much weight on the surface and never place objects on granite that may cause the surface to break or crack.
Conclusion
While there is nothing as beautiful as a granite floor, the appearance of cracks may be alarming, but in most instances, the cracks can be repaired. Whether you are dealing with a hairline crack or full crack or any kind of crack that may appear on your granite, knowing how to repair it is important in bringing back its appearance to normal. In case of professional repair services, and consultations, you can approach United Granite store which has personnel who will be willing to help you with any granite issue. So if you want to have that smooth, sleek look of the granite and stop those cracks from spreading, then you are on the right track to having that perfect granite surface for many more years.
