Granite countertops have become increasingly popular in modern kitchen design due to their beauty, durability, and unique natural texture.
However, over time granite countertops can start to discolor and turn yellow or brownish in color.
This blog post will provide 6 possible reasons why granite countertops can turn yellow, as well as some easy ways to fix them.
6 Ways Granite Countertops Turn Yellow
1. Natural Oxidation:
Granite is a natural stone that can oxidize over time and cause the surface to lose its shine, resulting in yellowing or brownish discoloration.
This oxidation process typically happens when exposed to sunlight, water, or other environmental elements.
The way this happens is that certain minerals in the granite can oxidize and cause yellowing or brownish discoloration.
Minerals like iron and manganese can react with oxygen in the air when exposed to sunlight, water, or other environmental elements and cause discoloration.
2. Use of Acidic Cleaners:
The use of acidic cleaners can also damage the surface of granite countertops, causing them to lose their shine and become discolored over time.
Common household cleaners such as bleach, vinegar, and other acidic solutions can cause discoloration if left on the granite for too long or used in excess.
These acid cleaners can also react with certain minerals in the granite, causing them to oxidize and discolor.
So it is important to use non-acidic, pH-neutral cleaners when cleaning your granite countertop.
3. Exposure to High Temperatures:
Exposure to high temperatures can also affect the color and texture of granite countertops.
The heat from hot pots and pans can cause the granite to turn yellow or brownish in color, especially if the heat is not removed quickly.
This happens because the heat can cause the minerals and veins within the granite to heat up and expand, resulting in changes to the color and texture of the countertop.
To prevent this from happening, it is important to utilize trivets or hot pads when placing hot items on a granite countertop.
This way, any heat will be contained within the pads rather than transferred to the countertop.
It is also important to remember not to place any hot items directly on a granite countertop, as this can cause irreversible damage.
Doing so could potentially void your warranty, depending on the type of granite you have installed.
4. Improper Sealing:
Granite countertops also need to be properly sealed to prevent staining and discoloration.
Granite is a porous material, so it can absorb liquids over time and cause the surface to discolor if not properly sealed.
It is important to apply a sealant to your granite countertop on a yearly basis in order to protect against staining and discoloration.
Also, if inferior quality sealers are used on the countertop, it can cause discoloration or yellowing over time.
This is because some of them may contain chemicals that can react with the minerals within the granite and cause discoloration.
5. Water Damage:
Another common cause is water damage. If the sealant on your granite countertop has worn away over time and is no longer protecting the surface, then water can seep into the pores of the granite and cause discoloration.
This can happen if you leave wet items on the countertop for too long or if you have a leaky sink that is constantly spilling water onto the countertop.
To prevent this from happening, it is important to regularly check and maintain your sealant, as well as keep an eye out for any leaking pipes or faucets.
6. Natural Variations in the Stone:
It is also important to note that some variations in color and texture of granite countertops are natural.
Granite is a natural stone, and each slab will have unique variances in color, texture, and pattern due to the mineral deposits within the rock.
These small variations can resemble yellowish or brownish discoloration, but they are not actually caused by any external factors and should be expected when installing granite countertops.
If you are worried that your granite countertop may be discoloring due to any of these factors, it is important to contact a professional to inspect the stone for signs of damage or wear.
This way, you can get the proper repairs or replacements done before any permanent damage is caused.
By understanding and following these tips, you can ensure that your granite countertop stays in perfect condition for many years to come!
7. Improper Maintenance:
Lastly, improper maintenance can also cause yellowing or discoloration of granite countertops.
If you do not clean your countertop regularly and use abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads, it can damage the sealant on the surface and leave it vulnerable to staining and discoloring.
It is important to only use non-abrasive cleaning products and soft cloths when cleaning your granite countertop to ensure that the sealant is not compromised.
Also, it is important to use a mild detergent or soap with warm water for regular weekly cleanings, as harsh chemicals can damage both the granite surface and the sealant.
5 Ways To Fix Yellowing Granite Countertops
If your granite countertop is yellow, there are a few things you can do to make it look better. Here are some ideas:
1. Dish Soap and Warm Water
- Mix a solution of warm water and a few drops of gentle dish soap.
- Dip a soft cloth into the solution and wipe down the affected area of the countertop.
- Rinse the cloth with clean water and wipe the countertop again to remove any soap residue.
- Dry the surface with a clean, dry cloth.
2. Baking Soda
- Create a paste by combining baking soda and water, then apply it to the affected area overnight.
- Follow up with a gentle scrub using a soft-bristled brush, like an old toothbrush.
- Finally, rinse off the area with clean water and dry it with a fresh cloth for the best results!
3. Commercial-Grade Cleaner
- To restore the natural beauty of your granite, use a commercial-grade cleaner made specifically for that purpose.
- Follow all instructions exactly as prescribed by the manufacturer, and you’ll be amazed at how it can help erase stains and discoloration from view!
4. Hydrogen Peroxide
If your granite countertop has been stained from coffee or red wine, you can attempt to brighten it by using a poultice.
- Simply mix together hydrogen peroxide with flour until it forms a thick paste that you can spread over the discolored area and cover with plastic wrap.
- Leave on for 24 hours, then remove the wrap and wipe away any residue with a damp cloth – there’s no better way to get rid of stubborn stains!
5. Professional Help
If you’re faced with persistent discoloration or blemishes, it may be best to consult a professional restoration company for your stone countertop.
With their specialized equipment and techniques, they can restore your granite back to its original beauty effortlessly.
Be sure to always test any cleaning method on a small area first before using it over the entire surface – this will ensure that no further damage is caused and the result looks as good as new!