Are you looking for how to remove stains from marble surfaces? If yes, then you are in the right place. Stains on marble is a big problem which needs proper treatment. In this article, we will discuss some best methods to remove stains from marble.
What Is Marble?
Marble is a hard crystalline metamorphic form of limestone. It is a white-colored stone with colored mottling, which is polished and is used for various architectural and aesthetic purposes. Marble is composed of recrystallized carbonate minerals such as calcite or dolomite.
Marble is one of the most beautiful and sophisticated building materials. This natural stone is viewed as a sign of elegance and beauty. From making a countertop or a kitchen platform to building huge statues and monuments, marble is the foremost choice for builders. It enhances the aesthetics of the structure or the elements.
Marble is costly compared to other building materials. So, it is necessary to keep marble free from stains from various sources. Stains or spills on marble should not be allowed to stay for a longer time.
If the stains are kept for a longer duration, then the stone starts getting damage and may even sustain permanent damages. Permanent damage may eventually result in damage of the structure and the stone physically and it may diminish the aesthetic beauty of the whole structure as well.
Types Of Stains On Marble
Before learning about the methods of removing the stains from marble from various sources, it is necessary to know different types of stains on marble.
Because different stains have different properties and their behavior is also different. A single method is not sufficient for all the different types of marble stains.
Typically, there are 8 different types of stains on marble. They are as follows:
- Rust stains
- Oil-based stains
- Organic stains
- Ink stains
- Water stains
- Mold stains
- Etch marks, and
- Paint stains
Let us look at each one of them in detail below.
1. Rust Stains
A rust stain comes when any metallic object is placed on marble for a longer time. Due to the rust formed in the metallic object, some rusty particles are deposited on the marble, which is known as a rust stain.
Stains from rust are generally in the shape of metallic objects. Rust stains come from various metallic objects like nails, metal cans, metal decorative items, metal rods, etc.
2. Oil-based Stains
Oil-based stains occur due to the spilling of various oily substances such as milk, butter, oils, lotions, etc. These stains are light brown to yellow.
3. Organic Stains
Organic stains are noticed once the item that makes the stain is removed from the stone. This typically darkens the marble from light pinkish brown to a dark brown color. Organic stains generally come from items like spilling of food and drinks like tea and coffee, leaves, plants, flowers, etc.
4. Ink Stains
Ink stains are common in places like offices, labs, schools, etc. These stains come from the ink from various writing instruments such as pens, markers, and highlighters. The ink of writing instruments is either water-based or alcohol-based.
Once the liquid, i.e., water or alcohol, evaporates from the ink, the pigment of ink on the marble remains as a stain on it. The ink stains are usually of the color of ink.
5. Water Stains
Water stains are commonly observed in either kitchens or bathrooms. When the water with impurities is stagnant on the stone for a long time, it leaves some stains behind when the liquid part of it is evaporated. The water stains are somewhat off whitish.
6. Mold Stains
Mold stains are usually seen in places like bathrooms and kitchens, where there are chances of water stagnation on marble.
7. Etch Marks
Etch marks are formed on marble due to their encounter with acidic substances like lemon juice, tiles, bathroom cleaners, etc. When these types of substances spill on the marble, they dissolve the top portion of the marble, resulting in physical damage to it.
8. Paint Stains
Paint stains are observed when the paint spills on the marble. After some time, the paint gets dried up, and some particles of paint remain on the marble as a stain.
How To Remove Stains From Marble
Following are some best methods to remove stains from marble. Depending on the type of stain, you can choose the method.
- Marble poultice
- Steel wool
- Mold remover
- Razor blade, and
- Paint striper
1. Marble Poultice
It is a 2-part mixture consisting of white absorbent material and a liquid solvent. The liquid is an active ingredient that enters the small pours of the marble and draws out the stains.
While the white absorbent helps draw out the stains from the pores, it also stores the stains. It acts as a solid part of the mixture.
A poultice is used to remove stains like rust stains, oil-based stains, organic stains, ink stains, and etch marks from marble.
2. Steel Wool
Steel wool is a bundle made out of very fine, flexible, and sharp-edged wires drawn from steel. It is also known as iron wool, wire wool, steel wire, and wire sponge.
Steel wool is used to clean household vessels, clean windows, and remove stains. Steel wool is useful for removing water stains from marble.
3. Mold Remover
Mold remover is used to remove mold stains from marble. It includes various products like bleach, borax, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, etc.
4. Razor Blade
Razor blades, which are primarily used for shaving beards and body hairs, are used to remove stains from marble. A razor blade is used as a scraper to scrape off the material on the marble. It is mostly used to remove paint stains.
5. Paint Striper
A paint stripper is a tool that is used to scrape the excess paint off the surface. A paint stripper is used to remove paint stains from marble. The function of a paint stripper is similar to that of a razor blade.
Also Read
Difference Between Tile Flooring & Marble Flooring
Types Of Stone Used In Construction
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