How to Restore and Paint a Granite Kitchen Worktop: Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
Granite kitchen worktops are elegant and hard-wearing. Yet heavy use can leave the surface looking dull or scratched. The specialists at MyKitchenWorkTop explain how to restore a kitchen worktop made of granite— including how to paint your kitchen worktop with food-safe coatings—while meeting current UK regulations.
Why restore rather than replace?
Restoring a granite worktop offers four clear benefits:
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Cost savings – up to 70 % cheaper than buying and fitting a new slab.
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Sustainability – less waste goes to landfill.
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Design freedom – choose fresh colours* or add subtle metallic veining.
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Legal compliance – finishes that satisfy the Food Safety Act 1990 and the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013 keep food contact areas safe.
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Assessing the granite
A short inspection prevents surprises later.
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Fine cracks need filling with a clear epoxy resin such as StoneLux.
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Deep stains may need a pH-neutral poultice designed for natural stone.
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Absorption test – place a drop of water on the worktop; if the mark darkens in under a minute, the original seal has failed.
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Cabinet support – ensure units are level; an uneven base causes micro-fractures over time.
Preparation checklist
| Step | Action | London DIY tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Clear the surface | Shield sink and hob with low-tack masking tape. |
| 2 | Deep clean | Use HG Stone Cleaner and a white non-scratch pad. |
| 3 | Light sanding | Orbital sander, 220–320-grit discs, FFP2 mask. |
| 4 | Repair chips | Apply StoneLux clear epoxy with a plastic spatula. |
| 5 | Dust removal | Microfibre cloth plus a HEPA vacuum nozzle. |
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Choosing paint, sealants, and trusted brands
| Use-case | Recommended product | Advantage | Legal note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change colour and seal | Stone Coat Countertops Epoxy (2 L kit) | High-gloss, food-safe when cured | Meets EU FCM Regulation 1935/2004 |
| Refresh seal only | Lithofin MN Fleckstop | Enhances veining, repels oil | Re-apply every two years |
| Faux-granite effect on laminate | Rust-Oleum Home Countertop Coating | Easy roll-on finish | Not food-contact safe |
Step-by-step application
1. Optional primer
Granite is dense, yet some kits supply a silica primer. Roll on one thin coat and let it dry for two hours.
2. Mix the epoxy
Room temperature should sit between 18 °C and 22 °C. Combine parts A and B in a 1:1 ratio. Stir slowly for three minutes to avoid bubbles.
3. First flood coat
Pour the mixture directly on to the worktop. Spread with a 3 mm notched trowel. After twenty minutes sweep a heat gun 10 cm above the surface to pop any trapped air.
4. Light sand
After twelve hours, scuff-sand with 600-grit foam. Wipe down with isopropyl alcohol.
5. Final seal coat
Apply a thin covering to achieve an even gloss. Touch-dry in twenty-four hours; fully cured in seven days. Do not place hot pans (>100 °C) on the top for the first week.
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Protective finishing touches
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Fit an anodised aluminium upstand to block steam.
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Round exposed edges to a 3 mm radius and run a bead of food-grade silicone.
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Repeat the water-drop test biennially; reseal if absorption is quicker than sixty seconds.
How to Restore and Paint a Granite Kitchen Worktop: Step-by-Step Guide
After-care routine
Daily cleaning calls for pH-neutral spray. Avoid strong citrus cleaners. Use chopping boards, as high-carbon knives can score even cured epoxy. Place cork trivets beneath anything hotter than 150 °C. Inspect silicone joints round the sink every six months.
Real-life inspiration
Marylebone Project – a Kashmir White granite worktop revived with amber-tinted epoxy.
Camden Town Project – U-shaped Nero Assoluto resealed with Lithofin, paired with metro-tile splashback.
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Frequently asked questions
How long will the new finish last?
A Stone Coat treatment can exceed ten years when cared for correctly.
Is it safe to prepare food on the worktop?
Yes—once the epoxy is fully cured and certified food-contact safe.
Can I complete the job without power tools?
Manual sanding is possible, yet a hired orbital sander from B&Q makes the work faster and more consistent.
Will the surface yellow over time?
Top-tier epoxies contain UV blockers. Keep strong sunlight off the work surface where practical.
Does the council need to be informed?
No. The project is cosmetic, so no building notice is required.
Conclusion and call to action
Restoring or painting a granite kitchen worktop in London is a manageable DIY task. Follow the steps above and select food-safe products. Visit MyKitchenWorkTop’s online store for Stone Coat kits, Lithofin sealants, and lightweight tools, or drop into the Battersea showroom for tailored advice.
