Even for experienced contractors, granite edge polishing often brings up recurring questions. Using the wrong technique or tool can mean the difference between a successful job and a costly callback.
We've compiled the five most common questions with answers straight from the pros to help you work smarter and more efficiently.
FAQ 1: Do I really need a wet polisher? Can't I dry polish?
The short answer: It's highly discouraged.
While dry polishing is technically possible, it's a compromise with significant risks:
Health Hazard: It creates harmful crystalline silica dust, a serious threat to your and your clients' health.
Tool Damage: The heat can "burn" your diamond polishing pads, causing them to glaze over and lose cutting ability.
Stone Damage: High temperatures can cause micro-fractures or discoloration on the granite surface.
Wet polishing is the professional standard. It controls dust, cools the stone and tools, and yields a higher-quality, swirl-free gloss. It's an investment worth making.
FAQ 2: Can I skip some polishing pad grits to save time?
Absolutely not. Each grit has a specific job: to remove the scratches left by the previous one. Skipping from 200 grit straight to 800 grit means the coarser 200-grit scratches are too deep for the 800-grit pad to remove. You'll end up with those scratches visible under a shiny surface, forcing you to go back and start over—wasting more time. Patience and progression are the only way to achieve a perfect mirror polish.
FAQ 3: What's the best tool for shaping a bullnose edge?
For professional applications, the diamond profile wheel (bullnose wheel) is the undisputed champion. It's specifically designed to grind a perfect, consistent radius in one operation. Vacuum-brazed versions offer particularly aggressive cutting and long life. While a stone router can be an alternative, an angle grinder/polisher with a profile wheel is the most efficient tool for full-sized countertops.
FAQ 4: What's the best RPM for my polisher?
Start low and adjust. A good baseline is:
Shaping & Coarse Polishing: 1,500 - 2,500 RPM
Mid-Range to Fine Polishing: 2,000 - 3,000 RPM
The key is to listen to the tool and watch its performance. If the pad is chattering, lower the speed; if it feels sluggish, increase it slightly. Always keep the tool moving to prevent spot heating.
FAQ 5: Do I have to seal the granite edge after polishing?
Yes, it is mandatory. Polishing opens the microscopic pores in the granite. Without sealing, oils, water, and other liquids will seep in, leading to unsightly stains and dark spots. Applying a penetrating stone sealer is the critical final step to protect your work, maintain its beauty, and ensure long-term client satisfaction.
Equip Yourself with the Right Tools for the Job
Having the right tools answers most polishing questions before they're even asked. From durable profile wheels to complete polishing pad sets, investing in high-quality diamond tools from a reliable manufacturer can fundamentally change your craft.
Explore the curated selection at Johnson Tools, designed to deliver the performance and consistency professional contractors rely on.
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