Why Do Granite Countertops Stain

Dark water stains may appear close to the sink if the countertops are constantly wet.

Why do granite countertops stain.

In general granite resists stains better than many other countertop options. Even a completely sealed granite countertop can stain if a spill is left to sit for long enough. Even oil stains can usually be removed using a poultice or paste that will draw out the oil from the stone. One of the reasons for this is that it is not as porous as other countertop materials such as marble.

However because it is porous like most natural stones granite can stain. In order to remove a stain you need to ensure that it is indeed a stain and not damage to the stone. 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. And of course more lightly colored granite is more likely to show stains than darker colors so if you have a white or other pale colored granite countertop it s important to be extra vigilant.

Unsealed stones may change color temporarily when wet but permanent stains can occur if substance like wine juice acidic foods or oils are allowed to sit on the stone. Start by determining the source of the stain. Make a paste mixture of hydrogen peroxide and diatomaceous earth and place it over the stain. In some cases dark quartz counters exposed to direct heat or sunlight will show discolored spots that look like stains which can be prevented by using pot holders instead of placing hot cookware on top of quartz surfaces.

Hence a granite countertop does not soak up as much spills or oils as other countertops do. Etching is when a substance actually begins to eat away at the stone causing a dullness or discoloration. Hair dyes colored toiletries paint and stain pigments the colorants contained in chemicals when spilled on granite will seep into the granite s pores and discolor the surface. Removing stains from granite countertops can be both a challenge and a puzzle at the same time.

Next you need to determine what caused the stain so that you can apply the correct materials to remove it. If you re not certain what caused the stain consider its size shape and location to give you clues. Granite is one of the most durable and beautiful natural stones that you will find. More commonly granite countertops suffer from etching not staining.

Stains in granite countertops are permanent. But one thing about granite countertops is that if they are not sealed with a quality granite countertop sealer they become prone to staining. Jim says that a poultice is a common way to remove stains. Most stains can be removed from granite counters.

Stains could come from anything like rust water chemicals oil paint or even ink. Liquids that do not evaporate such as oils will cause stains if left to soak into the stone.