What Causes Granite Stains

Many cases of granite discolorations are simple stains that are easy to remove.

What causes granite stains.

Even a completely sealed granite countertop can stain if a spill is left to sit for long enough. The water causes rings of granite sealer to appear. However it can cause an artificial stain to appear. The best way to prevent this is by keeping the surface protected with granite gold sealer which reduces the absorption factor to protect against stains and etches which can lead to costly repair or replacement.

But one thing about granite countertops is that if they are not sealed with a quality granite countertop sealer they become prone to staining. A heavy paint spill will require commercial paint stripper. The best thing to do to protect your granite countertops from stains is to clean up spills as soon as they happen. Our granite poultice is highly effective at removing stains from granite.

Although granite is less porous than some other types of natural stone it can still absorb substances that cause a chemical reaction. These water rings can be removed by applying denatured alcohol to the countertop and wiping in a circular motion. Get out paint stains in granite. Typically latex or acrylic paints won t cause a stain.

To remove oil stains from granite mix baking soda and acetone into a thick paste enough to cover the entire oil stain and leave it for 24 hours. Whether they re caused by vegetable oil in the kitchen or synthetic oil in the bathroom these stains can turn into dark spots rather quickly. When removing water stains from your granite countertop there are some solutions and tools that you should stay away from due to the damages they will cause. Although they can be used in small amounts to help remove stains you should not apply just rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to your countertop in an attempt to remove stains.

In order to remove a stain you need to ensure that it is indeed a stain and not damage to the stone. Removing stains from granite countertops can be both a challenge and a puzzle at the same time. Water doesn t actually stain. The porous granite soaks colors and dyes often resulting in stains after lots of use or exposure to some fluids or objects such as oil based cosmetics food colored drinks and metal objects.

Follow these do it yourself instructions below. Start by determining the source of the stain. The product usually takes about 24 hours to fully remove stains from granite depending upon the age depth and severity of the granite s discoloration and staining. Next you need to determine what caused the stain so that you can apply the correct materials to remove it.

For small paint stains you can remove stains from granite with lacquer thinner or scrape off with a razor knife. Oil based paints caulk putty preservative oils and sealants may cause oil stains. You will need to apply the alcohol several times because it evaporates so quickly. Hence a granite countertop does not soak up as much spills or oils as other countertops do.