What Stains Solid Surface, Granite, or Quartz Countertops?

When it comes to the quartz, granite and other solid surface countertops Denver residents have in their homes, there is often this misinformed notion that they’re impervious to stains. Unfortunately, this isn’t true, and while all of these surfaces—and quartz in particular—are certainly highly stain-resistant, they aren’t stain-proof. With that in mind, lets consider the substances that can stain these countertops.

Scorching

Scorching is a concern when it comes to the solid surface, granite and even quartz countertops Denver locals have in their homes. Note that if scorching does occur, it is possible to have the surface sanded and re-polished in order to remove the stains. Nevertheless, this can be an expensive process, and so, it’s better to avoid stains by using pot holders and other items that ward the surface from extreme heat. The scorching issue is most prevalent in a solid surface top. Luckily in most cases it is possible to have the surface sanded and buffed in order to remove the signs of damage. Nevertheless, this can be an expensive process, and so it is better to avoid this concern by using pot holders and trivets at all times to protect the surface from extreme heat. We find that a lot of Denver locals prefer to use Quartz or Granite in their kitchens due to this factor.

Sunlight

Sunlight—or more specifically, ultraviolet light—can lead to discoloration that looks a lot like a stain. This is more a concern for outdoor kitchens, but this should be a consideration even for indoor counters that will receive a lot of sunlight. Be mindful that darker colors fade faster and more noticeably. Granite is UV protected due to its natural properties and is a perfect fit in an outdoor kitchen or bay window with lots of light. Therefore, Granite is a superior choice for your outdoor kitchen.

Water

Water can stain the solid surface, quartz and granite countertops Denver homeowners choose for their indoor and outdoor kitchens. This kind of staining doesn’t happen fast, but you do want to react to spills in a timely manner, and you want to avoid using your countertops as a cutting board. Use cutting boards and other surfaces than can be cleaned as well as disposed of and replaced as needed.

Wine

Does wine stain countertops? This is a common question that many homeowners ask, and the answer is a resounding yes! Of course, it must be qualified to some degree. Like with water, wine is going to take some time to cause resistant or even “permanent” stains. You definitely want to use coasters to avoid rings. In addition, if a spill does occur, then you want to clean it up immediately using warm water and typical dish soap. Granite should be sealed every two years to help resist staining and keep the surface from absorbing contaminants or colored stains. Quartz is non-porous and Denver residents with an active and busy lifestyle love that there is so little upkeep or worries about stains or germs.We're always happy to discuss any ongoing maintenance issues with any material you choose so you can make the right choices for you and your family.

Coffee and Juices

The same goes for coffee and juices as well as anything that may be acidic or have similar characteristics. Protect your surfaces. As mentioned, use cutting surfaces, coasters and so forth, and as with wine, if a mess does happen, clean it immediately and clean it well.

Anything with Chemicals

Anything with chemicals, including household cleaners and certainly industrial-strength cleaners, can stain and otherwise damage these surfaces. Never use cleaners unless they are explicitly approved for your surfaces, and know that warm water and dish soap does the job just fine in most cases. Do not use any ammonia, vinegar, or lemon cleaners on granite. Although granite is an extremely tough surface, it is susceptible to acidic formulas, which eat away at its surface. Vinegar, and lemon all contain more acid than is safe for granite.