Granite is known for its incredible durability—but like any hard surface, it’s not completely immune to damage. Over time, heavy pots, dropped tools, or sharp objects can leave chips, scratches, or dull spots in your beautiful stone.
The good news? Most granite damage can be repaired, either as a DIY fix for minor issues or with professional help for deeper damage.
At Crowley’s Granite & Quartz, we’ve restored hundreds of stone surfaces across Portland. This guide walks you through the right way to fix granite chips and scratches—without making the damage worse.
Custom Countertop Installation
Locally Owned & Operated For Over 20 years- No Charge Digital or In-Home Estimates
- Countertops Installed only 10 Days After Templating
What Causes Chips and Scratches in Granite?
Despite granite’s strength, a few things can still cause surface damage:
- Dropped heavy cookware (especially near edges or sinks)
- Dragging appliances or utensils across the surface
- Improper cleaning tools (abrasive pads, sandpaper)
- Hard impact to unsupported overhangs or corners
Granite can chip more easily on exposed edges or areas near cutouts like sinks and cooktops.
Step-by-Step: How to Repair Minor Chips in Granite
Small chips (less than the size of a dime) can usually be repaired at home with a granite repair kit.
You’ll Need:- Clear or color-matched epoxy resin (included in most kits)
- Razor blade or putty knife
- Masking tape
- Polishing compound (optional)
- Clean the area thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol and let dry.
- Tape off the surrounding area to protect the stone.
- Mix the epoxy according to instructions.
- Apply epoxy to the chipped area using a putty knife or toothpick.
- Let it cure for the recommended time (usually 24 hours).
- Shave off excess epoxy with a razor blade once fully hardened.
- Optional: Polish the area with a granite polishing compound for a smooth finish.
How to Fix Minor Surface Scratches
Light scratches are usually cosmetic and don’t penetrate deep into the stone. These can often be buffed out with granite polishing paste or fine polishing pads.
Materials Needed:- Granite polishing compound or paste
- Soft cloth or variable-speed buffer
- Optional: fine-grit sandpaper (800–1200 grit) for deeper scratches
- Clean the area to remove debris or grime.
- Apply polishing compound using a soft cloth or polishing pad.
- Buff the area in circular motions until the scratch blends in.
- For deeper scratches, lightly wet-sand the surface, then re-polish.
When to Call a Professional
DIY fixes are fine for surface-level scratches and minor chips, but some issues need expert repair:
Professional repair is best for:
- Deep cracks or large chips
- Damage near sink cutouts or seams
- Broken corners or unsupported overhangs
- Uneven seams or failed epoxy joints
- Restoring shine to a dull, worn surface
At Crowley’s, we use industrial-grade resins and polishing tools to restore your granite to like-new condition—and we match the color and pattern so the repair blends seamlessly.
How to Prevent Future Damage
Granite may be tough, but a little care goes a long way. Here’s how to avoid chips and scratches moving forward:
- Use cutting boards—don’t cut directly on the stone
- Lift heavy items instead of sliding them
- Add edge support for overhangs over 10″
- Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners
- Use trivets or mats under cookware and appliances
Routine maintenance and sealing can also help keep your surface resilient.
Final Thoughts: A Little Damage Doesn’t Mean a Full Replacement
Chips and scratches in granite are common—but they’re rarely the end of the road. Whether you go the DIY route or call in the pros, your countertops can be restored to their original elegance.
Want expert help assessing your damage? Crowley’s offers inspection and repair services for granite countertops across the Portland area.
Crowley
Written by Crowley’s Granite & Quartz
With over two decades of experience in fabrication and repair, Crowley’s provides expert solutions for every stage of your countertop’s life. From new installs to repairs and restorations, we help Portland homeowners get the most out of their stone surfaces.