Marble Vanity Stain Around Faucet
by Michael
QUESTION:I have a marble vanity-top with a china sink bowl. It's basically white with grey marbling. The faucet is mounted on the marble top. It's about 2 years old. And it's in a bathroom that is no longer used regularly since my kids are away at school.I just noticed a grey discoloration around the two faucet handles and spout area on the countertop. It looks like water laying on the counter top, although it is dry and there is no evidence of any water leakage from around the faucet parts. It actually looks like a water-puddle, which at first I thought it was. We have softened-water in our house. Do you know a) what might cause this and b)how to get rid of it? ANSWER:Well a "grey discoloration" indicates more of a stain, while "looks like a water-puddle" suggests etching.Both staining and etching will leave marks on marble. Stains occur when a substance is absorbed into the marble creating a spot that is darker than the marble. "Plumber's putty" that is often used to seal around faucets can stain marble. (That's why you should only use 100% silicone) Etching causes lighter colored spots caused by corrosion of the marble from contact with an acid or too alkaline product. And it's possible that a caulk could etch. Etching will also make polished marble dull and non-reflective in the etched area, so that may help you diagnose it further. We have two Marble Maintenance Manuals that address etching and staining, including how to fix, preventing, etc. Based on your description though, it's hard to rule out either. Stains from Plumber's putty is more common, but your description sounds more like a classic etch mark than a stain. Instead you may choose to get the comprehensive Cleaning Marble Secrets Guide which includes all info about etching and staining along with a ton more info you should know about cleaning marble and marble maintenance. The good news is that either way... whichever problem it is... it can be removed. Good Luck, Ryan P.S. Get all the facts, answers, explanations and simple solutions with step-by-step instructions for any issue, problem or question with our Granite & Marble Maintenance Manuals. |
