Do you want to know how to remove water build up from granite?
Then you’ve come to the right place because that’s exactly what I’ll be going over in this post. I like to keep the intro short, so let’s get into this!
How to Remove Limescale from Granite Countertops
Regular cleaning is the best way to both prevent and tackle limescale build-up. Jumping on any noticeable limescale before mass build-up will make life much easier for you and your countertops.
Going one step further by implementing a routine and maintenance schedule to stay on top of the upkeep may seem like work at the time but this small ritual will simplify any future problems with limescale growth.
But, not everybody has the time! So we have a few small suggestions to help you along the way to rid your granite of hard water build-up and remove the limescale, calcium and other minerals that form these unsightly stains.
Natural Stone Cleaners
Natural stone cleaners, specifically Granite cleaners are the number one go-to. These professional-grade granite cleaners penetrate the stone and are designed specifically for this particular type of natural stone top counter.
As well as tackling the spills and stains pulling out the dirt and grime from underneath the surface, it cleans your countertop without leaving those unwanted streak marks leaving it clean and shiny after drying. Limescale, be gone!… Until next time.
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Washing up Liquid
Using washing up liquid in warm water is a quick and easy solution. Especially if it’s a new formation. Jump on it quickly with a microfiber cloth or sponge. Even a soft bristle brush will do but make sure you don’t press too hard and leave any unwanted scratch marks.
Avoid hard-bristled brushes and brillo pads for this very reason. You don’t want to damage the area you’re trying to clean.
Baking Soda Paste
Preferably avoidable due to its abrasive nature, but baking soda pastes can work wonders on many things and this homemade potion can also help in the removal of limescale. You can do this by mixing a spoonful of baking soda and enough water to form a thick paste.
Ensure this is mixed well together. Apply the paste to the limescale and let sit for around 15 minutes. After the paste has worked its magic, gently scrub the stained area in a consistent circular motion using a damp soft cloth or soft-bristled brush.
You may need to repeat this process until the limescale is fully gone. Ensure to clean up any debris and mess after use with a clean cloth and warm water.
Always rinse and dry the area after cleaning. Drying is importance personified.
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The Grey Area!
The number one rule here is never to scrape or chip off any limescale as this could cause immediate and costly damage to your countertop. These luxurious stones are an investment to your home and you have to treat them well and take care while performing maintenance. However, rules are meant to be broken…sometimes.
This is a last resort. Scraping limescale or any other build-up and stain off the top of your granite countertop can break through the sealed top. You want to avoid this at all costs, but using a razor blade can be effective when used carefully by stripping the limescale’s hold from the stone.
Only use a razor blade if careful and confident. Otherwise, contact a professional if these resilient scales don’t go away.
Prevent, Prevent…Polish
Polishing Granite countertops on a regular basis can be a great preventative measure in the build-up of limescale. This will also keep your stone looking new and luxurious. Polishing granite is a simple process and begins with making sure the stone is clean and dry.
Most over-the-counter granite-specific polishes come in at a very affordable price and are well worth storing at home if you plan on doing this procedure often. Within minutes this will enhance the stone once more, bringing it back to life and offering extra protection.
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Seal
Not the animal…
Or the singer!
Even one of the strongest materials on the planet needs to be protected with a sealant. Granite countertops can last anywhere between 10-20 years when well looked after.
Retail sealants can push this lifespan to the higher end while making your aging granite look young and fresh.
Always read the supplier’s instructions and make sure to protect yourself by wearing the appropriate gloves and any other necessary PPE.
How to remove calcium from granite countertops
All of the methods above apply when trying to remove calcium build-up but a calcium-specific remover should be near the top of your list when looking for a quick and easy solution.
Over-the-counter cleaners such as the CLR Calcium Lime Rust Remover are highly recommended for this issue.
Within moments of spraying or applying a calcium remover, you will notice the white hard water build-up start to break apart and dissolve, making it easier to wipe up with a warm soft cloth or sponge.
These household products are designed for just that and take no time in getting to work. However, it is worth cleaning the granite further with a stone cleaner to ensure all remnants of the calcium cleaner and water are removed from the stone.
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How to remove mineral deposits from granite countertops
Other mineral deposits include magnesium. All good for consumption but again these countertops require constant maintenance to prevent staining, erosion and discolouration and build-up. Especially if you live in a hard water area with no water softener installed.
Poultice
This old-school term and method of mixing up a herbal paste was often used for healing skin injuries. However, the previously mentioned Baking Soda Paste can be used as a modern poultice method to help draw moisture and minerals from the granite.
This is to be left on the scaled areas and covered by a plastic wrap or similar for between 24 and 48 hours. Once hardened and the time is up, remove the poultice carefully with a soft scraper. Even an old credit card or window scraper would do.
Drying
After any cleaning solution or process, always dry! Dry! Dry! This is the last step in maintaining that any build-up is kept at bay and drying your surfaces is so integral to this.
These methods are great for removing hard water buildup from granite countertops but when possible, speak to an expert.
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