Granite as you might know is known for its durable nature and long lasting finish in the building industry. But there are certain things that can potentially harm its glossy surface, making it dull or discoloured. While it does offer exceptional scratch and stain resistant properties, there are certain harsh acids and bases that might corrode and make ‘etch’ marks on the surface.
What exactly causes these marks?
These marks often described as ‘water marks’, or ‘ghost stains can be caused either by acidic food products like fruit juices, soda, coffee, wine and salad dressings or they might appear due to continuous use of caustic cleaning products like ammonia, vinegar and bleach over the years. Sealing the granite or quartz worktops can help prevent etching up to a certain degree, but it does not offer complete safety of the counter top.
Usually people confuse etch marks with stains and vice versa. However, this should be remembered: granite is stain resistant, but it etches easily by corrosive chemicals. Users need to keep in mind that an etch mark is not really a stain that can be cleaned later. The most effective way to prevent etching is to avoid the surface from being in contact with any harsh chemicals for longer periods of time. Longer the time of contact between the two, severe is the etching.
If you have an etched coloured or black granite worktop at your place, give us a call at 01274377600 and avail state of the art granite and quartz polishing solutions for harsh etch marks at reasonable rates.