One of the things that are frequently encountered on quartz surfaces is water. Of course, we do everything with water; we cook, clean, and often get spills. So, the question becomes, can water stain quartz?
The short answer to this question is that water that contains rust, mold, magnesium, or calcium can eventually cause quartz to stain. This is because when water evaporates, it leaves these deposits behind, and with time they will build up and cause discolorations and stains on the surface.
It is essential to know that quartz can resist stains long enough for you to clean it up. Quartz is not stain-proof. So if you allow any water with calcium, rust, or mold to sit on your quartz long enough, it will stain.
For more details on how water can stain quartz surfaces like countertops, vanities, worktops, or floors and how to fix and prevent it, continue reading this article.
Details On How Quartz Stain With Water
There are a few different ways that water can cause quartz to stain. Here are some of the more common ways:
1. Quartz Stain With Water That Contains Rust
One of the most common ways quartz surfaces become stained is from water that contains rust. This can happen if you have rusty pipes or if you live in an area with high iron content in the water.
Water containing rust is one of the most common ways quartz surfaces become stained. When water containing rust evaporates, it leaves behind red or orange deposits on the quartz surface. These stains are difficult to remove and will require professional help.
This is common in old buildings, and not only is this harmful for your quartz and other natural stone surfaces, but it can also be dangerous for your health.
If you think your water is causing quartz to stain, have it tested by a professional, and if necessary, install a water filtration system like these portable ones you can buy and install on your faucets.
Another way to test for rust in your water is to fill a glass and let it sit overnight. If the water is rusty, you will see rust sediment on the bottom of the glass in the morning.
If your quartz countertop has rust stains, I wrote a detailed guide on how to remove rust stains from quartz countertops without damaging them.
2. Quartz Stain With Water That Contains Mold
Mold is another common culprit for quartz stains. Water containing mold spores can cause quartz to stain if the mold is not removed quickly.
Mold spores are difficult to see with the naked eye and can be found in both indoor and outdoor air. They can also be found in water, especially stagnant water.
When mold spores come into contact with a quartz surface, they will begin to grow and multiply. As the mold grows, it will release stains that can mar the look of your quartz countertops.
There are a lot of benefits to the non-porous nature of quartz; however, if you allow water to sit on the surface long enough, it could have mold spores that can cause quartz to stain.
If you think your quartz might be stained with mold, there are a few things you can do to clean it. You can use mild dish soap or white vinegar to remove mold from the quartz countertop or surface.
3. Quartz Stain With Water That Contains Calcium & Magnesium
Last but not least, quartz can also stain with hard water. This is water with high amounts of calcium and magnesium.
Hard water is not necessarily bad for quartz, but it can cause a build-up of these minerals on the surface of quartz countertops and other surfaces. This build-up can eventually lead to staining.
If you live in an area with hard water, you can prevent quartz stains by using a water filtration system. This will soften the water by removing the calcium and magnesium from the water before it comes into contact with your quartz surfaces.
You can also use distilled water for cleaning quartz countertops to prevent this type of staining on your quartz countertops.
4. Quartz Stain With Water That Contains Tannins
Tannins are another type of waterborne substance that can cause quartz to stain. Tannins are found in water that has been sitting in oak barrels or other containers made of tannin-rich wood.
When water containing tannins comes into contact with quartz, it can leave behind brown or yellow stains. These stains are difficult to remove and will require professional help.
If you think your quartz might be stained with tannins, there are a few things you can do to clean it. You can use mild dish soap or white vinegar to remove tannins from the quartz countertop or surface.
What Type Of Stains Does Water Leave On Quartz?
The type of stains that water leaves on quartz surfaces will depend on the kind of water used. For example, if you use hard water to clean your quartz countertop, then you may notice mineral deposits and streaks. So let’s get into the different types of stains that water can leave on quartz.
- Rust Stains:
As we mentioned earlier, water that contains rust can leave red or orange stains on quartz surfaces. While these stains do not occur immediately, they will become more evident over time.
These stains are difficult to remove and may require professional help. But I have a Free step-by-step guide you can follow to help you remove rust stains from quartz countertops.
- Mold Stains:
Water-containing mold spores can cause quartz to stain if the mold is not removed quickly. Quartz is a non-porous material, so it is resistant to most stains. However, if quartz becomes wet and moldy, the spores can cause discoloration.
These are usually white-ish or green-ish in color and can be removed with a strong bleach or disinfectant solution like rubbing alcohol or vinegar.
- Water Spots:
These occur when water droplets evaporate on the quartz surface. As they evaporate, they leave behind minerals like calcium and magnesium. These spots can usually be removed with a soft cloth and some distilled water. If the spots are difficult to remove, you can use a 50/50 vinegar and water solution.
- Tannin Stains:
Tannin stains are common on quartz countertops because they come from many common household items, such as coffee, tea, and red wine. So if the water contains any of these substances, it can leave a brown or yellowish-brown stain on quartz.
How To Remove Water Stains From Quartz?
Now that we’ve gone over the different types of stains that water can leave on quartz let’s talk about how to remove them.
Using Poultice
You can use poultice to remove all kinds of water stains from your quartz countertop. A poultice is a paste that you apply to the stained quartz surface and then cover with a plastic wrap.
You can make a poultice at home using flour, baking soda, or powdered laundry detergent mixed with water. Once you’ve applied the poultice to the quartz surface, you need to let it sit overnight for the best results.
You will need:
- Baking soda
- Water
- A cloth or sponge
- A bowl
Directions:
- Step 1: Mix together equal parts baking soda and water to form a paste.
- Step 2: Apply the paste to the rust stain using putty knife. Allow it to sit overnight.
- Step 3: Use a putty knife or sponge to remove the paste and rust stain from quartz. Voila!
Tips For Removing Water Stains From Quartz Surfaces
- Use a soft, clean cloth to avoid scratching the quartz surface.
- If the stain is still visible after using a poultice, you can try repeating the process.
- You can also use a 50/50 solution of vinegar and water to remove almost any type of water spots or stains from quartz surfaces.
- You can use a stronger mild dish soap solution or disinfectant solution for tannin stains, such as rubbing alcohol or vinegar.
- Use distilled water for cleaning quartz countertops to prevent staining.
- Be sure to dry the quartz surface completely after cleaning to prevent water spots.
- If the stain is still visible after trying all of these methods, you may need to call in a professional.
How To Prevent Quartz From Staining With Water
- The best way to prevent water stains on quartz countertops is to dry the surface immediately after it gets wet.
- You can also use coasters or trivets under pots and pans to avoid contact with water.
- You should install a water softener to prevent quartz from staining if you have hard water.
- Finally, be sure to clean up any spills immediately, and always use distilled water for cleaning quartz surfaces.
Final Thoughts
To wrap things up, quartz is a beautiful, durable material that can last a lifetime with proper care.
While quartz is resistant to most stains, it can still be stained with water if the water contains rust, mold spores, tannins, or minerals.
Fortunately, there are several ways to remove water stains from quartz surfaces. And with a little bit of prevention, you can keep your quartz countertop looking new for years to come.
