Sustainability and innovation now are on all the minds of those who are training in the trades and construction industries. Especially those who work with granite, which is considered the hardest, most durable, and most sustainable stone, keeping the granite smooth, secure, and looking its best is taught and practiced by the most diligent of companies. Because of its strength and hardness, however, granite is not considered a sustainable product. It does not break down easily, and even the smallest particulates can be left in the earth and on surfaces for years if enough care is not given to the handling of polishing and buffing materials, such as Granite Gold Polish, and the disposal of those materials after use. BB Industries, LLC with decades of experience in granite enhancement and upkeep does provide the types of polishing pads and methodologies needed to keep granite sustainable yet functional.
When learning to use polishing pads, a company must have technicians and techniques that know the difference between diamond polishers and buffing pads, as the grit and surface can be different on all types of granite, as can the need for variation of sizes. Disposal of tools such as pads is taught, and water might be used as a spray to keep particulate matter in check whenever buffing is taking place, especially in larger spaces or outdoor spaces. The granite itself must be kept in pristine condition even when focusing on sustainability as damages can occur and this can be costly to property owners who use granite for the beautiful aesthetic and long-lasting value of this gorgeous material. Granite that is polished or buffed incorrectly can be marred, and show streaking and scratching. The areas to be polished and buffed must also be analyzed, as sustainable applications like force of nature are used, especially when enhancing granite in outdoor environments. Large spaces will use, of course, huge floor polishing pads, while small spaces can need just a hand-sized type of polisher and buffer bad. While other materials such as marble, quartz, and concrete can be buffed and polished, granite does not break down quickly, as it is very hard. Therefore, sustainability in particulates must be considered and any airborne particles should be eliminated whenever possible. Any technician is taught to use masks and gloves as breathing in the particulates is not healthy, and granite can embed itself under the skin easily. Property owners are wise to leave the areas where the buffing will take place to avoid adverse effects, and if polishing occurs after buffing it is wise to allow thorough drying time before the surfaces are even touched.
Granite contains silica which is a compound found in other hard rocks also. It can create a rather disabling lung disease when inhaled called silicosis which can be fatal at times. The buffing of granite and then using large or small pads should not really be done by a home or property owner themselves as there is too much risk. It is not a DIY (Do It Yourself) project unless you work in the field of granite and its installation and upkeep. In the outdoor environment, the particulates can seep into the ground after rain, or blow into the wind if they are small enough, and this is an environmental hazard and a health hazard.
Innovation in both tools and methods of using buffing tools must be taught to those handling granite especially if buffing to maintain the beauty of it. Buffing tools also vary significantly in quality and this is a major consideration. The beauty of granite is a given and it will always be a favorite amongst property owners and property management companies for its aesthetic and its longevity. A company like BB Industries understands that the earth must also matter, as well as the air, and of course, the health of the property owners, property management companies, and workers who will be around any buffed granite. Caution and love combined with knowledge of granite and the use of the pads and other buffing tools will lead to happy enjoyment for life without any risk whatsoever from the hard silica remnants contained in granite. Maintaining granite with consistent “mild” buffing and polishing is more sustainable and healthier than allowing the granite to become marred and scarred which takes more effort and can lead to health problems and an increase in precautions needed. Whether residential or commercial a well-kept building is a healthy building to keep up with the polishing and buffing of the granite and using the correct polishes and pads will make for a stable and yes, “sustainable” environment. Years of delight are enjoyed with granite, and even palatial palaces and commercial buildings with solid granite floors can still be kept sustainable with a regular maintenance plan by a company that is well-versed in this remarkable earthy material!