Introduction
Stone worktops, such as granite, quartz, and marble, are a popular choice for homeowners and businesses due to their durability, elegance, and timeless appeal. However, what happens when the finish of your stone worktop no longer suits your style or needs? Whether it’s the matte finish you initially loved or the polished shine that no longer fits the overall aesthetic of your kitchen or bathroom, you might wonder, “Can you change the finish of a stone worktop after installation?”
The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. While it’s possible to alter the finish of a stone worktop, the process requires careful consideration, the right techniques, and professional expertise to ensure the surface remains intact and functional. In this article, we’ll explore how stone worktops can be refinished, the methods available for changing the finish, and whether it’s a good idea to undertake this task.
Can You Change the Finish of a Stone Worktop After Installation?
The simple answer is yes, you can change the finish of a stone worktop after installation. However, it’s important to understand the limitations, costs, and the level of expertise required to achieve the desired result. Stone worktops are not a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to finishes. Whether it’s a granite, quartz, marble, or other natural stone worktop, each type of stone has its characteristics that affect how it can be refinished.
Different Finishes for Stone Worktops
Before delving into the process of changing a stone worktop’s finish, let’s first examine the types of finishes typically used on stone surfaces:
Polished Finish:
This glossy, smooth finish is the most common for granite and marble worktops. It enhances the stone’s natural colour and gives it a reflective surface, but it can also highlight fingerprints, smudges, and scratches.
Honed Finish:
A honed finish provides a matte or satin-like surface, which is often preferred for a more contemporary, understated look. It’s less prone to showing fingerprints and is generally easier to maintain than a polished finish.
Leathered Finish:
This finish has a slightly textured surface, offering a unique, tactile quality. It provides a subtle sheen but retains a somewhat rustic feel.
Brushed Finish:
This finish involves brushing the stone with abrasives, creating a more textured surface. It gives a slightly worn, vintage look and can add character to the worktop.
Tumbled Finish:
Usually used for natural stones like marble and travertine, this finish creates a more rustic and aged look, which is ideal for traditional kitchens.
Changing the Finish: What’s Involved?
Changing the finish of a stone worktop is not as simple as applying a new coating or varnish. The process depends on the current finish, the type of stone, and the desired outcome.
- For Polished to Honed Finish
If you want to change from a polished finish to a honed one, the surface of the stone needs to be abraded. This can be done using a grinder or abrasive pads, which smooth out the shine and create a more matte appearance. The process involves sanding the surface down carefully, with multiple steps of progressively finer abrasives. - For Honed to Polished Finish
To achieve a polished finish, the stone must be ground down with diamond polishing pads or similar tools to bring back the shine. This method involves more precision to avoid damaging the stone or creating uneven spots. - Changing to a Leathered or Brushed Finish
Creating a leathered or brushed effect requires specialized tools such as wire brushes or diamond brushes. These tools are used to gently texture the stone’s surface. While both finishes provide a more rugged appearance, they still require a high level of skill to achieve the desired result. - Tumbled Finishes
Achieving a tumbled finish often requires a stone to be placed in a large drum, where the stone is tumbled against other rough materials. This process may not always be suitable for worktops already installed, as it requires considerable handling.
Things to Consider Before Changing the Finish
Before you decide to change the finish of your stone worktop, there are several important factors to keep in mind:
- Type of Stone: Some stones are easier to refinish than others. For example, marble and granite are more likely to withstand a change in finish compared to softer stones like limestone or sandstone.
- Cost: Refinishing a stone worktop can be a costly endeavour, especially if done professionally. Expect to pay for both the labour and the materials needed for the process.
- Damage Risk: Although it’s possible to refinish stone, there’s always a risk of damaging the surface, particularly with intricate or heavily textured stones. It’s important to consider whether a complete refinish is worth the risk.
- Maintenance Needs: After changing the finish, the maintenance of the worktop may change. Polished surfaces, for example, require regular cleaning to maintain their shine, while honed finishes might need resealing to prevent staining.
- Resale Value: A change in finish may affect the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen or bathroom, potentially influencing the resale value. A polished finish is often seen as more high-end, while a honed or leathered finish may suit different tastes.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Can I change the finish of my stone worktop myself?
While it’s technically possible, we strongly recommend consulting a professional to change the finish of your stone worktop. DIY refinishing can be risky and may lead to permanent damage or uneven finishes.
Q2: How long does it take to change the finish of a stone worktop?
The process can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the size of the worktop, the current finish, and the type of stone. Professionals usually take longer to ensure the work is done with precision.
Q3: Will changing the finish affect the stone’s durability?
Changing the finish should not significantly affect the durability of your stone worktop, as long as it is done correctly. However, it can make the surface more susceptible to stains or scratches if not properly sealed or maintained.
Q4: Can I change the finish from a polished granite worktop to a matte one?
Yes, you can change a polished granite worktop to a matte finish, but it requires sanding and grinding down the surface. It’s a delicate process that should ideally be carried out by professionals.
Q5: Is it possible to add a leathered or brushed finish to quartz?
Quartz worktops can be given a leathered or brushed finish, although the process is slightly different from that of natural stone. Quartz is less porous than natural stone, so achieving the desired finish requires the right technique.
Q6: How much does it cost to change the finish of a stone worktop?
The cost can vary widely, depending on the type of stone, the finish you want, and the company you hire. Expect to pay between £200 and £800 for professional refinishing services, with additional costs for repairs or maintenance.
Conclusion
Changing the finish of a stone worktop after installation is certainly possible, but it requires expertise, careful consideration, and the right tools. This might seem like a simple cosmetic update, the process can be complicated and costly, depending on the finish and type of stone. Whether you want a glossy, matte, or textured look, ensure that you consult a professional who can guide you through the refinishing process and help you achieve the perfect result without damaging your worktop.
If you’re unsure whether changing your stone worktop’s finish is the right choice, it’s best to seek expert advice before making any decisions. The right finish can enhance the beauty of your kitchen or bathroom, so it’s worth investing in quality work.
If you’re looking to transform your space with stunning natural stone worktops, composite worktops, or premium tiles, visit our website Granite Direct to explore our extensive range of products. Take the first step towards enhancing your space by contacting us online or calling +44 20 8366 7333.