Stone worktops are a fantastic investment in any home. Of course, they need to be properly maintained if you want to get the most out of them. Cloudy spots can ruin that beautiful finish. Knowing the causes of cloudiness will help you prevent them from occurring.
Incorrect cleaning solutions
Not all cleaning products can be used on natural stone. You need to make sure that you use a stone-safe cleaner. While you might read about using window cleaner or soapy water to clean stone surfaces, this is not ideal because it will build up over time and affect the look of your stone. Abrasive cleaners are also not recommended because they can leave scuff marks on your worktops.
Incorrect cleaning techniques
Just as you should avoid abrasive cleaning solutions, you should also avoid abrasive tools. Even if you use a stone-safe cleaner, an abrasive sponge will do serious damage to your stone worktops.
Oily spills
If you spill any kind of oily substance on your worktops, you need to clean it right away. The longer it sets, the more time it has to seep into the stone and leave a lasting stain. If you notice an oil stain on your worktops, you can use poultice powder to help remove it. You will need to allow the powder to stand on the affected area for up to 24 hours. After this, remove the powder and apply a degreaser with water. Keep the area wet, along with the degreaser, for 30 minutes. Vacuum the solution up and use a clean white cloth to blot the area. If this does not suffice, you will need to use a poultice with a solvent and poultice powder.
Incorrect application of a sealer
Stone worktops should be sealed immediately after installation and on a regular basis to prevent substances from seeping in. If, however, the sealer is not properly installed, it could be due to the fact that the wrong sealer was used or if it was not applied as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Hard water
Water spots and rings can form if you do not wipe up any water right away. If spotted early enough, these spots are easy to remove with a stone-safe cleaner. If the build up is more severe, you may need to call a professional.
For the most part, natural stone worktops are very forgiving. So, even if you notice some cloudiness or other stains, there is usually no need to worry. If you cannot resolve the problem yourself, you can always depend on your local stone cleaning expert to assist.