However, “low maintenance” doesn’t mean “no maintenance.”

Even granite gradually changes over time. Daily cooking, cleaning, sunlight, hard water, and years of use slowly affect the surface. While the changes often happen so gradually that homeowners don’t notice them at first, eventually the countertop may lose some of the deep clarity and rich reflection it once had.

One of the questions we frequently hear at Sureshine Care and Restoration Services is:

“How do I know when it’s time to have my granite professionally polished or sealed?”

The answer depends on the condition of the stone—not simply its age.

Granite Is Extremely Durable—but It Isn’t Maintenance-Free

Granite is one of the hardest natural stones used in residential construction. Its dense crystalline structure makes it highly resistant to scratching under normal household use, and most granites are far less reactive to common kitchen acids than calcium-based stones such as marble.

That durability is one reason granite continues to perform beautifully for decades.

However, granite still experiences everyday wear.

Over time homeowners may notice:

• The finish appears less reflective.
• Dark colors begin looking slightly hazy.
• Water no longer beads on the surface.
• Small scratches become visible under certain lighting.
• The countertop feels rougher than it once did.

These changes are usually gradual, which makes them easy to overlook until they become more noticeable.

Why Granite Can Lose Its Shine

Contrary to popular belief, granite doesn’t simply “wear out.”

Instead, its finish is slowly affected by years of microscopic abrasion.

Dust, sand, cookware, appliances, and even everyday cleaning all contribute to tiny surface scratches that gradually reduce clarity.

On darker granites—such as Absolute Black, Black Galaxy, or many Brazilian stones—these changes are often easier to see because polished dark surfaces reflect light so clearly.

Homeowners sometimes describe the countertop as looking “cloudy” even though it has been cleaned thoroughly.

How Do You Know If Granite Needs Professional Polishing?

Professional polishing may be appropriate if you notice any of the following:

• The surface has lost its mirror-like reflection.
• Fine scratches are visible in direct lighting.
• The countertop appears dull after cleaning.
• Different sections of the countertop have different levels of shine.
• The finish no longer complements the rest of the kitchen.

Professional polishing restores the surface by refining microscopic imperfections and bringing back the stone’s natural clarity and depth.

When Should Granite Be Sealed?

Not every granite requires sealing at the same interval.

Some dense granites absorb very little moisture, while others are considerably more porous.

A simple water test can often provide a good indication.

If water placed on the surface darkens the stone within several minutes, it’s likely time to consider resealing.

Professional-grade penetrating sealers help reduce liquid absorption, making the countertop easier to maintain and helping minimize staining from cooking oils, wine, coffee, and other common household products.

It’s important to understand that sealing primarily helps resist stains. It does not create a thick coating on the surface or significantly change the appearance of the granite.

Why DIY Products Don’t Always Produce Professional Results

Home improvement stores offer countless products marketed as granite polish or granite sealer.

Some perform reasonably well, while others simply leave behind temporary surface residue that creates the illusion of shine.

Professional stone restoration focuses on the stone itself—not temporary cosmetic enhancement.

Rather than masking wear, professional polishing restores the actual finish of the granite. Premium penetrating sealers are then applied according to the specific absorption characteristics of the stone.

Professional Granite Evaluation

Every granite countertop behaves differently.

Factors that influence maintenance include:

• The type of granite.
• The factory finish.
• Sun exposure.
• Kitchen usage.
• Previous maintenance.
• Age of the installation.

Because of these differences, professional evaluation is often the best way to determine exactly what services will provide the greatest benefit.

How Sureshine Restores Granite Countertops

Our process begins with carefully evaluating the condition of the stone and discussing the homeowner’s goals.

Depending on the countertop, services may include:

• Scratch removal
• Professional granite polishing
• Granite crack repair if necessary
• Seam repairs
• Professional sealing
• Final detailing

Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach, every countertop receives the level of restoration appropriate for its condition.

Protecting Your Granite Investment

Luxury granite countertops represent a significant investment in your home.

Routine professional maintenance not only helps preserve their appearance but also allows small issues to be identified before they become larger, more expensive repairs.

Whether your countertops simply need fresh sealing or require polishing to restore their original brilliance, proper maintenance can dramatically extend their beauty for years to come.

Schedule Granite Polishing and Sealing in Beverly Hills

If your granite countertops no longer have the rich shine they once did, professional restoration may be all that’s needed.

Sureshine Care and Restoration Services proudly provides granite polishing, sealing, repairs, and restoration throughout Beverly Hills and the greater Los Angeles area.

Call today: (714) 627-9001

Schedule your free estimate: Book Online