When should stone be dry ground?

1. The stone is not protected

One of the most important steps in protecting stone surfaces is making sure they are clean and dry before applying any protectants. This is especially important for stones that have not been protected in the past because these stones are more likely to absorb water. To prepare such gemstones for conservation, the surface must first be opened by grinding away any crystallized, glazed, or aged layers. This will help the protectant penetrate the stone surface, creating a strong protective barrier. Dry grinding is the recommended method of opening the stone surface, rather than using water, which causes longer water absorption and delays the construction process. With dry grinding, the stone surface remains clean and dry, which is essential for the proper incorporation of protectants. It is important to note that not all gemstones require dry grinding prior to conservation. Gems that have been previously protected or polished may not need to be treated in this way.

2. Grinding and polishing

In most cases, the smoothing and refining process of the stone requires the use of water. However, dry grinding is required in some cases. Stone dry grinding is a technique often used to speed up the polishing process. During the grinding and polishing process, the stone is often polished with water. However, this causes the stone surface to become wet and absorb moisture. This is where dry grinding comes into play. The specific method is to use the stone polishing pads to grind the stone to 1000 mesh. The stone can be semi-dry or completely dry, with a small amount of water or even no water. In practice, dry sanding with stone has proven to be a practical skill that can significantly help a stone shine. After the stone is dry ground to 1000 mesh, remove the excess water absorbed by the low-grade water mill. This allows the stone to dry ahead of time, saving time in crystallization and glaze sealing.

3. Walls, corners, countertops

One situation where dry sanding is preferred is when sanding stone walls. Wet sanding can allow water to seep into the walls, causing serious problems like mold and water spots. Dry grinding removes this risk and allows for a cleaner, safer grinding process. In addition, dry grinding is particularly suitable for finishing edges and corners that cannot be reached by large grinding machines. In addition, it is more convenient for minor repairs such as lines and small area defects on the countertop. Dry sanding is convenient and safe when sanding stone walls and small repairs.

It is important to recognize when dry grinding is appropriate and when water grinding is more appropriate. By knowing the best techniques for each gemstone, you can maximize its lifespan and beauty for years to come.

Some suggestions on whether to use stone dry grinding or stone water grinding:

During dry grinding, dark gemstones such as granite and basalt often become whitish or cloudy from grinding dust. This affects the overall appearance of the stone and reduces the effectiveness of the grinding process. By adding a small amount of water, stone sanding professionals can prevent this white haze from forming and ensure smoother, more efficient results. While some may think that adding water to the dry milling process will only negate the benefits of the dry milling process, studies show that's not the case. Adding water increases the efficiency of the grinding process while still providing the benefits of dry grinding such as reduced water usage and a cleaner overall process. Stone grinding experts recommend using a small amount of water during the grinding process, always being careful not to add too much water, and prioritizing safety procedures. It is important to consider the type of stone being processed and the specific needs of the project to determine the best grinding technique.