Simple Procedures to Remove Different Stains on Natural Stone Surfaces

Most people are having the biggest fear of maintaining the natural stone. Like any other type of counter tops made of materials like wood, natural stone also requires same level of maintenance and care.

Granite counter tops are comparatively strong and resilient to stains. As a preventive measure immediately wipe off the spills on the counter top. Do not leave the spills overnight. They are prone to stain by oil or acidic materials so blot these spills soon. The following tips can help you to remove different type of stains on the natural stone counter tops: 

• Spills and stains: Use a paper towel to blot the spill immediately. Wiping will spread the stain. Flush with mild soap and plain water several times. Dry the area using soft cloth. Repeat it till all traces of spilled liquid is removed. 
• Stain Removal: First of all identify the type of stain.  If you do not know the cause for the stain, play detective and identify. Is the stain near a plant, whether any cosmetics used, any food service area, what colour, shape and pattern? You may also take a snap shot of the stain and send it to The Marble Man who’ll advise you what action is needed. 
• Surface stains can be easily removed using appropriate cleaning product or chemicals. Deep seated stubborn stains require poultice or professional stone restoration service. We shall see how to deal with different stains using appropriate household chemicals or by preparing and applying a poultice.   

Types of Stain and cleaning procedures

• Oil based stain- It may be caused by grease, milk, cosmetics and cooking oil:. Use soft cleanser liquid with bleach OR mineral spirits OR ammonia OR acetone. 
• Organic stains- It may be caused by coffee, paper, food, urine, tobacco, fruit, bark, bird droppings. It may be pinkish brown. If happened outdoors, mostly it’ll get removed by sun and rain. If indoors, use 12% hydrogen peroxide and few drops of ammonia. 
• Metal: Metal stains can be removed with a poultice. Deep seated stains of rust are extremely difficult to remove and needs professional service. 
• Biological stain: Algae, moss, fungi, lichens and mildew cause this stain for which use diluted ammonia Or Hydrogen peroxide Or bleach. Do not mix ammonia with bleach as this creates a lethal and toxic gas emission. 
• Ink stain: It may be caused by ink, magic marker or any pen. Clean with acetone or lacquer thinner for dark coloured stones; use hydrogen peroxide or bleach for light coloured stone. 
• Paint: Small amount of stain with paints can be removed by carefully scrapping with razor blade or using lacquer thinner. Heavy paint stains can be removed with heavy liquid stripper available in paint / hardware stores. Follow the manufacturer directions; do the work in ventilated area with rubber gloves. Acrylic paints or latex will not cause any stains; only oil based paints, putty, linseed oil and sealants cause stains. 
• Water spots and rings: This is caused by accumulation of water on the surface and should be attempted by stone restoration experts like The Marble Man who service the QLD and NSW regions.  
• Etch Marks: They are caused by spilling acidic materials on the stone surface. Contact stone care specialists in the Gold Coast, Sydney, Newcastle etc such as The Marble Man for efficiently removing etch marks.  

The well experienced team of professionals at The Marble Man can do all types of stone repair, stone maintenance, stone countertop repair, natural stone restoration etc. Call them now on 1300 627 626.