Introduction
Granite and marble are two of the most popular choices for flooring, countertops, and other surfaces in residential and commercial settings. Their timeless beauty and robust durability make them favourites in Dubai’s luxury interior design scene. However, their long-lasting elegance relies on regular and careful maintenance.
Although both materials are incredibly strong, each has its unique requirements for polishing and upkeep to maintain its lustrous appearance. Whether your granite floor has lost its shine or your marble countertop needs a bit of extra care, knowing the right methods for restoring these surfaces is crucial.
In this guide, we’ll explore the key differences between granite and marble, offer professional advice on how to polish and maintain them and show you how to bring back their original sparkle. Whether you’re reviving the gleam of your granite floor or keeping your marble surfaces looking their best, this guide is the perfect resource to help you care for these beautiful natural stones in your Dubai home or office.
Granite vs. Marble: Key Differences
Choosing between granite and marble for your flooring, countertops, or other surfaces? It’s essential to understand the differences between these two beautiful natural stones. Both offer exceptional durability and aesthetics, but each has its own set of qualities that could influence your choice based on your specific needs.
Composition and Appearance
Granite: This igneous rock is formed from the cooling of molten lava beneath the Earth’s surface. Comprising quartz, feldspar, and mica, granite boasts a coarse-grained texture and a wide range of colours, from deep blacks and greys to speckled whites, vibrant reds, and greens. Its unique patterns ensure every slab is distinct.
Marble: A metamorphic rock, marble forms when limestone undergoes heat and pressure. It has a fine-grained texture, with elegant veining that runs through the stone. These veins can vary in colour, from light to dark, often creating a classic, luxurious look. Marble typically comes in shades of white, beige, and grey, with some featuring striking veins of green or gold.
Durability and Porosity
Granite: Known for its incredible strength, granite is one of the hardest natural stones, making it highly resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks. It’s also less porous than marble, meaning it’s less likely to stain from liquids such as oil, wine, or coffee. As a result, granite is an excellent option for high-traffic areas and kitchen countertops.
Marble: Although durable, marble is softer than granite and more vulnerable to scratching and chipping. Its higher porosity means it’s more susceptible to staining from acidic substances like citrus juice, vinegar, or wine. While its beauty is unmatched, marble requires more care to maintain its appearance and prevent damage.
Maintenance Requirements
Granite: Granite is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only regular cleaning with a pH-balanced cleaner and occasional sealing. Its resistance to stains and scratches makes it easy to care for, particularly in busy areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic spaces.
Marble: Marble demands more frequent attention. Due to its higher porosity, it needs regular sealing to protect against stains. Cleaning with a mild stone cleaner is essential, as harsh chemicals can damage its surface. Polishing is also necessary to maintain its shine and to fix any small scratches.
Cost Considerations
Granite: Generally more affordable than marble, granite’s price can vary based on its type and origin. Given its durability, granite offers long-term value, making it a great choice for those looking for a natural stone at a more budget-friendly price.
Marble: Due to its luxurious nature and the complex extraction process, marble tends to be more expensive than granite. Prices can fluctuate significantly depending on the colour, veining, and rarity of the stone. For those seeking a high-end, sophisticated look, marble is often worth the extra investment.
Suitability for Different Applications
Granite: A highly versatile stone, granite works well in a variety of settings, including kitchen countertops, flooring, bathroom vanities, and even outdoor areas. Its resilience makes it a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces.
Marble: With its refined appearance, marble is often used in luxury environments like high-end countertops, flooring, and decorative features such as sculptures or columns. It is ideal for spaces where visual impact is important, such as bathrooms, foyers, and prestigious areas. However, it may not be suitable for high-traffic zones or areas prone to spills.
Polishing Techniques for Granite and Marble Restoration
Whether you’re aiming to restore the glossy finish of your granite floors or enhance the timeless allure of your marble surfaces, proper polishing is key to maintaining their elegance and extending their life. Granite and marble each require specific techniques to achieve a smooth, shiny finish that highlights their natural beauty. Here, we’ll guide you through the polishing methods for each stone to ensure your surfaces remain flawless.
Granite Polish
Granite is a durable and resilient stone, but it still benefits from proper polishing to reveal its natural shine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to polishing granite effectively:
Clean the Surface: Start by thoroughly cleaning the granite. Use a pH-balanced stone cleaner to remove dust, dirt, and grime. Steer clear of acidic cleaners, as they can damage the surface. Wipe it down with a microfiber cloth to ensure no residue is left behind.
Inspect the Surface: Before polishing, check for any cracks, chips, or stains. If you find minor imperfections, use a granite repair kit to fill in any gaps. Stains can be treated with a granite-specific stain remover to ensure the stone absorbs the solution before wiping it off.
Choose the Right Polish: Select a polish designed for granite. It’s essential to use a product that enhances the stone’s shine without causing damage. Polishes can come in spray form or as liquid-based products that require buffing.
Apply the Polish: Spray or apply a small amount of polish to the granite. Work in small sections, starting from one corner and moving across the surface. Use a microfiber cloth or a soft, non-abrasive pad to spread the polish evenly. A thin layer is usually enough to achieve a high-gloss finish.
Buff the Surface: After applying the polish, buff the granite with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Use circular motions, working in sections. This helps bring out the glossy finish while removing any excess polish.
Seal the Surface: To maintain the shine and protect the granite, consider applying a granite sealer after polishing. Sealing creates a protective layer that helps prevent stains from liquids and oils.

Marble Polish
Marble is softer and more porous than granite, so it requires a gentler approach to polishing. Follow these steps to polish marble effectively:
Clean the Surface: Begin by cleaning the marble with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid acidic substances like vinegar or lemon, as they can dull the marble’s surface. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently remove dust, dirt, and residue.
Inspect for Damage: Check the marble for any scratches, chips, or stains. Minor scratches can usually be buffed out during the polishing process, but deeper scratches may need professional attention. Stains should be treated with a marble-specific stain remover.
Use a Marble Polish: Choose a marble-specific polish for the best results. Marble polishes are usually cream-based and designed to preserve the stone’s lustre. Apply the polish with a soft cloth or sponge.
Apply the Polish: Work in small sections, applying a thin layer of polish. You may also use a polishing compound designed for marble restoration. Be careful not to over-apply, as excess polish can leave a residue.
Buff the Surface: Buff the polished marble using a microfiber cloth or a soft, non-abrasive pad. Use gentle circular motions to work the polish into the stone. Avoid applying too much pressure, as marble is more prone to scratching than granite.
Final Touches: Once the polish is fully buffed in, wipe off any excess with a clean, dry cloth. If desired, you can apply a marble sealer to protect the surface and enhance its shine. Sealing is particularly important for marble, as it helps guard against staining and damage.
Maintenance Best Practices for Granite and Marble
Maintaining the beauty and durability of your granite and marble surfaces in Dubai requires consistent care. These natural stones can last for decades with proper maintenance, but neglecting them can lead to stains, scratches, and a loss of their original shine. Here’s a guide to help you maintain your granite and marble surfaces with the best practices.
Granite Maintenance
Granite is a durable and low-maintenance material, but regular care is still necessary to preserve its appearance.
Clean Regularly
- Daily/Weekly: Clean your granite surfaces regularly to prevent dust, dirt, and grime from building up. Use a pH-balanced stone cleaner and a soft microfiber cloth to wipe the surface. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the stone.
- Spills: Wipe up spills immediately, particularly from acidic substances like vinegar, wine, or citrus juice, which can damage the surface over time. Blot spills (don’t rub) with a soft cloth to avoid staining.
Seal the Granite
- Frequency: Although granite is less porous than marble, it still benefits from sealing to protect it from stains and moisture. Apply a granite sealer every 1-2 years, or whenever the surface appears to absorb liquid.
- How to Seal: Clean the surface thoroughly before applying the sealer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the stone to absorb the product fully. Wipe away any excess sealer with a clean, dry cloth.
Prevent Scratches
- Use Cutting Boards: Always use cutting boards to prevent scratches from knives and sharp objects.
- Coasters: Place coasters under glasses and bottles to avoid rings and scratches on the surface.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
- Cleaners: Never use harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or acidic cleaners (e.g., vinegar or lemon) on granite, as these can dull the finish or break down the protective seal.
- Polishing Products: Only use polishes specifically designed for granite to avoid surface damage.
Routine Polishing
- Buffing: While granite doesn’t require frequent polishing, you can buff it occasionally with a granite polish or granite floor polish kit to restore its shine and remove minor scratches.
Marble Maintenance
Marble is a more delicate material than granite and requires extra care to maintain its natural beauty and prevent damage.
Clean Regularly
- Daily/Weekly: Clean your marble surfaces with a soft cloth or sponge and a pH-neutral cleaner formulated for marble. Avoid abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals that can scratch or dull the surface.
- Spills: Immediately clean up spills, particularly from acidic liquids like wine, vinegar, or citrus, as they can cause staining or etching. Blot the spill with a soft cloth and use a marble-safe cleaner to clean the surface.
Seal the Marble
- Frequency: Marble is highly porous and should be sealed regularly to prevent stains. Apply a marble sealer every 6-12 months, depending on use and exposure to liquids.
- How to Seal: Thoroughly clean the surface before sealing. Apply the sealer evenly, allow it to sit for the recommended time, and then wipe off any excess. A properly sealed marble surface will resist stains and moisture.
Prevent Scratches and Etching
- Avoid Acidic Foods: Avoid placing items like lemon, vinegar, or tomato-based sauces directly on marble, as they can cause etching. Always use cutting boards and trivets to protect the marble from scratches and heat damage.
- Use Soft Cloths: When cleaning or wiping marble, use soft microfiber cloths to avoid scratches.
Regular Polishing
- Polish When Necessary: Marble surfaces may need more frequent polishing than granite to restore their natural shine and remove light scratches. Use a marble-specific polish or a polishing powder designed for stone surfaces.
- Buffing: After applying the polish, buff the surface gently with a soft cloth in circular motions to enhance the shine.
Prevent Staining
- Apply Stone-Approved Cleaners: Use marble-safe cleaners and avoid cleaners containing acid. Regularly check for stains and treat them with a marble stain remover as soon as they occur.
By following these maintenance best practices for both granite and marble, you’ll ensure that your surfaces remain beautiful and durable for years to come. Regular cleaning, sealing, and proper care will preserve the natural elegance of these luxurious stones.

Professional Granite and Marble Restoration Services in Dubai
Over time, even the most well-maintained granite and marble surfaces can experience wear and tear. From scratches and chips to stains and dullness, these beautiful materials may require professional restoration to restore their original lustre and shine. Whether you’re dealing with granite countertops, marble floors, or intricate stone tiles, professional restoration services in Dubai can help bring back the beauty and durability of your surfaces.
Why Choose Professional Restoration Services?
Professional restoration services offer numerous benefits over DIY methods, especially when dealing with valuable and delicate materials like granite and marble. Here’s why hiring experts is the right choice:
Expertise and Experience: Restoration requires specialised knowledge of the materials and techniques needed to repair and renew their surfaces. Professional restorers in Dubai have the skills and experience to handle complex tasks such as deep cleaning, polishing, sealing, and repairing. Their expertise ensures that the job is done safely and efficiently.
Advanced Equipment and Tools: Professionals use advanced equipment and tools specifically designed for granite and marble restoration. These tools allow them to achieve a flawless finish that would be difficult to replicate with consumer-grade products. From diamond abrasive pads to high-speed polishing machines, restoration specialists have access to the right resources for superior results.
Long-lasting Results: When professionally restored, granite and marble surfaces are more likely to maintain their beauty for a longer period. Experts not only restore the shine but also provide sealing services that protect the surfaces from future damage, staining, and dullness. This helps preserve the natural beauty of the stone and ensures longevity.
Safe and Effective Solutions: Restoration specialists use stone-safe cleaning and polishing products, ensuring that the surface is not damaged by harsh chemicals or abrasive tools. This level of care is critical, as improper methods can lead to permanent damage.
Conclusion
Granite and marble are timeless materials that add elegance and sophistication to any space. However, to keep them looking their best, regular maintenance and professional restoration are essential. Whether it’s polishing, repairing scratches, removing stains, or sealing, investing in expert restoration services ensures that your stone surfaces retain their natural beauty and durability for years to come.
In Dubai, where the climate and lifestyle can take a toll on your surfaces, professional care becomes even more crucial. By choosing a trusted service provider, you can enjoy the stunning shine and longevity of your granite and marble floors, countertops, and tiles without the worry of damage or deterioration.
Don’t let wear and tear diminish the beauty of your home or business—opt for expert restoration services and maintain the allure of your stone surfaces with minimal effort. Contact DubaiClean today to learn more about our comprehensive granite and marble restoration services, and let us help you bring back the shine!
FAQs
1. Can granite flooring be polished?
Yes, granite flooring can be polished. Over time, granite can lose its shine due to wear and tear. Professional polishing services can restore its smooth, glossy finish. The process typically involves using specialized polishing pads or compounds to buff the surface and enhance its natural shine.
2. How do I make my granite floor shine again?
To make your granite floor shine again, you can either use a granite floor polish kit or hire a professional for a full restoration. Regular cleaning with a stone-safe cleaner, followed by polishing with a specialized product, can help restore its shine. For deeper issues like scratches or dullness, professional restoration services, including buffing and resealing, can bring back the floor’s original gleam.
3. What makes granite floors shine?
Granite floors shine due to their smooth, polished surface. When properly polished, the surface reflects light, giving it a glossy, mirror-like appearance. The shine comes from the smoothness of the stone’s surface, which is achieved through a combination of natural polishing and buffing techniques. Regular maintenance and occasional professional polishing help maintain that shine.
4. How do you maintain granite floors?
Maintaining granite floors involves regular cleaning with a mild, pH-neutral cleaner, avoiding harsh chemicals, and promptly cleaning up spills to prevent staining. It’s also important to reseal granite surfaces periodically to maintain protection from moisture and stains. For a long-lasting shine, use a granite floor polish kit and avoid abrasive scrubbers that can damage the surface.
5. How to maintain a marble floor?
Maintaining a marble floor requires gentle cleaning with a pH-neutral stone cleaner to avoid damaging the surface. Marble is more sensitive than granite, so always use soft cloths or sponges when cleaning. It’s important to promptly clean spills, particularly acidic substances, as they can etch the surface. Regular sealing is essential to protect the marble from stains and moisture. Occasional professional polishing and restoration will keep the marble floor shiny and well-maintained.