While quartz and granite countertops are famous for being among the most stain resistant options out there, nothing is truly impervious to stains. And it can be tricky identifying stains in material like quartz and granite when you’re not used to dealing with them. Luckily, there are ways to figure out stain makeup and origin and by doing so have a way to tackle the stain with ease.
No one likes stains, especially in their beautiful granite and quartz countertops.
Luckily, they’re fairly easy to deal with once you know the cause of the stain, when it happened, and the best method for removal. With quartz and granite countertops, it can be tricky if you’re not accustomed to seeing stains on the surface. But we’ve got a guide below to help you out with all your questions regarding your countertop stains.
Below are some key questions and tips to have ready for when you spot a stain on your granite or quartz countertop.
Where is the stain?
One of the best methods for stain identification is looking at where the stain is and what it’s in proximity to as a result. Is it near a plant that’s watered regularly? Is it near the stove top or a food or liquid preparing appliance? Figuring this out can be key in deciding what caused the stain and thereby figuring out what to do about it. Stains from bacon grease are going to require a different approach than stains from standing water.
Identifying the Stain
Take a good look at the shape and color of the stain. It can be a huge clue as to the substance behind it. Oil-based stains, such as milk, oil, and cosmetics will darken the stone’s color. Organic stains like fruit, food, or liquids usually result in a pink-ish brown stain. A stain from something metal such as a cast iron pan or other cooking implement leaves behind traces of rust. Take a good look at the stains you see.
Things That Look Like Stains but Aren’t
Sometimes it’s not a stain but it’s still some sort of discoloration or disfiguration of your countertop. Damage from fire and smoke, for example, is more serious than a stain and may require professional restoration. Acids can leave behind abrasions and etch marks in the stone’s surface. Sometimes water or other liquids carry minerals that get left behind as efflorescence when the liquid evaporates.
Related Questions
How do I clean a stain in my countertop?
This depends on the type. Once you’ve identified the stain you can look up the best method. Some stains will come away as soon as you wipe away the cause of the stain (such as standing water) but some may require more work. In most cases, a countertop stain is an easy fix and easily removed.
Are there stains that are impossible to remove?
Rust stains from metal, if left untreated, can become permanent. It’s important to tackle those as soon as you spot them to prevent them from becoming deep and impossible to remove.
It is rare that your countertops will stain, however its important to be able to identify them as quickly as possible incase it happens. If you have questions talk to a countertop professional about your concerns and what you can do to quickly remove and restore your granite or quartz countertops.
Wisconsin Granite Design in Oak Creek installs the highest quality granite, marble and quartz countertops in homes and businesses throughout Wisconsin. Our main goal is customer satisfaction providing the highest quality work by fabricating and installing top of the line countertop solutions at the best price available.
We are a one stop shop carrying hundreds of granite, quartz and marble slabs on site so that you can visit us as, speak with a designer and plan your kitchen or bath remodel at the same place. Call us to schedule a Free Design consultation and see why we are the best choice for stone countertops in the Milwaukee area!