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Granite counter repair questions

14 years ago

Hello,

We've had granite counters for about 3.5 years. There are two cracks near the undermount sink (one occurred shortly after installation, one occurred in the last 6 months). Also, the sink has recently become stinky! I think that it's coming from the caulked area. We have never replaced the caulking, and it looks black/grey (previously clear).

So I believe some repairs are in order, and I'm wondering what they will entail (we are not handy!! don't have first clue!). Can the cracks near the sink be repaired permanently? (The installers filled the early crack initially - the "filling" didn't last long). As for the stinkiness - is it as simple as replacing the caulking, or is there more to it - should an expert be involved?

How much would you expect such repairs to cost (we're in Northern CA).

Thank you for your insight!

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Comments (2)

azstoneconsulting
14 years ago
The area that is "es-stinky" is mold and bacteria that has built up over time.
The caulking can be removed and replaced with new caulk. It'll take some work to
get ALL of the old "es-stinky" stuff outta there - but if you have patience and
a good nose plug ( or a good sinus infection that prevents you from tasting and
smelling anything else) you should have no problems.

The cracks on the other hand - can be repaired, but if there is any movement
in your cabinets or countertops from any reason (Northern Cali - DOES have it's
share of earth quake activity now does it not?

presuming you can isolate and and arrest the source of movement - you could have
a Pro come out and do the fix - the price will depend on the extent of
the work that will be involved, if there's top polishing involved, etc.

this is a technique that I teach Fabricators how to do at AZ School of Rock.

Members of the SFA could also help you - many SFA members also know how
to do crack repairs and surface polsihing - here is a map that you can find at the
SFA web site - Maybe one of these guys is close to you???

I would recommend contacting an SFA member company to follow up on the crack repair
issues - there are some really good guys that are "allied" in the Alliance...

hth

kevin

Here is a link that might be useful: SFA Web SIte - members map page
kitter
Original Author
14 years ago
Fantastic! Thanks so much for the info. We'll attempt the recaulking ourselves (with nose plugs), and research SFA members in our area to deal with the cracks.
I really appreciate you taking the time!
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