I Scratched My Stone Countertop — Can it be Fixed?

How to Repair Scratched Marble Countertops

Marble is a relatively soft and porous stone, so it can be scratched more easily. Deep scratches should always be repaired by a professional to preserve the integrity and natural beauty of the stone. If you notice light scratches, you may be able to repair them yourself.

Using fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool, buff the area as gently as you can. Try not to add more scratches to the one you’re trying to smooth out. Once the area looks even, use water to rinse away any minerals. Then, follow up with a marble sealant to cover the area once the scratch has been removed.

For deeper scratches, you may need to have the marble countertop refinished. A professional will remove a tiny amount of stone from the surface and then reseal the whole countertop. This process will restore the stone to its original pristine state.

How to Repair Scratched Quartz Countertops

Extremely durable manufactured quartz stone is difficult to scratch, but it does happen. Fortunately, it’s relatively easy to repair.

Quartz is fabricated using stone pieces and resin to bind them together. You can make a seamless quartz countertop repair for scratches, nicks, and pits using a special epoxy resin formulated for this purpose. Fill the crack with clear or colored epoxy resin and allow it to cure for at least 24 hours. If you see or feel any excess resin, use a razor blade to gently smooth out the area.

If you’ve found some damage you’re not sure how to repair, consult your local professional stone supplier. While you can likely fix scratched quartz countertops on your own, your local supplier will have the high-quality materials you need to make a seamless repair. 

How to Repair Scratched Granite Countertops

Granite is a tough material and not very susceptible to scratches, but scratches can happen. If you notice a small scratch, you should know how to repair granite countertops.

Similar to marble countertops, you can repair scratched granite countertops using a fine sanding block or steel wool very gently. Once you’ve buffed out small scratches, you’ll want to apply two coats of sealant, but be sure to let the first layer dry completely (about 48 hours) before applying the second. 

Because granite is a particularly hard stone, you should only attempt to repair granite countertops yourself if the scratch is hardly noticeable and superficial. If you aren’t sure you can safely DIY, or the scratch is deeper or in a visible spot, it’s best to have someone take over who has experience working with and repairing granite countertops. 

Tips to Avoid a Scratched Stone Countertop

If you’ve just learned how to repair your scratched quartz countertop or are looking for ways to avoid scratches in the future, here are some helpful tips:

• Always use a cutting board to prevent scratches and spilling juices or oils that may damage the stone (particularly with marble).
• Have an abundant supply of coasters and use them under everything.
• Place heavy pans on trivets or towels and never slide them across the countertop.
• Use cleaning agents that are safe for stone and avoid abrasive cleaning materials. When in doubt, go with a gentle soap and water rinse.
• Keep up with regular maintenance, including cleaning and sealing to protect your countertop from stains and scratches.
• Consult your local stone supplier with any specific care questions.

Whether you need to repair granite countertops or fix scratches in another type of countertop, whenever you’re in doubt it’s best to call a professional. Particularly for deep scratches or highly visible ones, it’s better to get the job done right the first time than risk making the problem worse.

A scratched stone countertop might seem like a nightmare, but here at Kowalski Granite & Quartz, we’re always available to help. If your stone counters have seen a bit of wear and tear, just give us a call. We’re happy to help you get your counters back in top condition.