White spots on black quartz countertops

5 years ago

last modified: 5 years ago

Can anyone tell me what these white spots might be? My countertops are black quartz from IKEA. These small white spots appeared recently right next to my stove. I only clean my countertops with Method and have never used a harsh cleaner. I tried cleaning the spots with Method and nothing happened. They are fuzzy/speckled looking but don't have texture when I run my finger over them. None of them are larger than a penny. I'm stumped. Could it just be hard water deposits? The only other spray that I use is a stainless steel cleaner for my hood and stovetop. If drops from the cleaner accidentally sat on the quartz could it have caused these spots? It's also in an area where we typically make mixed drinks. Could alcohol cause this?

Like I said, I haven't tried cleaning them with anything but Method. I thought I'd ask here to see if anyone has advice. Thanks!

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Comments (4)

ryansinon
Original Author
5 years ago
Thanks for the info -- do you know if anything can be done about the spots?
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Joseph Corlett, LLC
5 years ago
Unfortunately, I believe JuneKnow is correct. The fact that the spots aren't appearing anywhere else but where hot grease could splatter and the fact that the finish isn't altered support this theory. Hot pot damage on quartz always turns white which is what these are.

I doubt they're coming out, but that depends upon how deep the damage is. Were I called to fix this, you'd acknowledge in writing that the tops were ruined and that I could only make them better. Please don't fool with any topical abrasive products like Bar Keeper's Friend unless you'd like to trade fairly inconspicuous spots for fairly inconspicuous spots with an area around them that doesn't finish match. Not a DIY project.
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ryansinon
Original Author
5 years ago
Thanks Joseph. Too bad about the spots -- had I known grease could do this I would have put down a towel while cooking.

Question: you talked about fixing these. I'm in IL and you're in FL so I wouldn't be able to hire you, but I was wondering if this type of professional repair work is guaranteed. I don't think I would have it fixed right now. Like you said, the spots are fairly inconspicuous. But if more appeared in the future I might consider it. I guess what I'm asking is if there's any risk involved when attempting to repair damage like this. Could it make things worse?

Also: I got advice that Bar Keepers Friend was OK to use on quartz. I tried a little bit prior to reading your note. I completely diluted it in water before applying, and I used a q-tip to gently swirl. Fortunately, I don't see any change in the finish (and it probably goes without saying, there's no change to the spots). But thanks for the advice. I won't do it again.
millworkman
5 years ago
"Fortunately, I don't see any change in the finish "

Thats because you did not scrub with it as that is what does the bulk of the damage. Which is also what cleans the crap off the surface but the stone is too soft and that is what ruins it.