Stone, terrazzo, acrylic benchtops – stained, chipped, scratched
Cause
Food spills particularly acidic foods which can etch the surface
Repair
- clean away spills on a benchtop as soon as they happen to reduce the risk of staining and don’t leave used teabags lying on a surface for long periods
- dried spills and stains should generally be soaked with water before cleaning. Use warm water with mild dishwashing liquid and a clean, soft cloth (such as a microfibre cloth), rinse with clean water and gently dry. Stubborn food residues may be removed with a plastic scouring pad
- do not use metal scouring pads, very abrasive cleaning creams, acid-based cleaners (such as vinegar) or oven cleaners on your benchtop
- for staining that simple cleaning attempts cannot shift, contact the supplier/installer to see what they recommend. Many recommend specific proprietary cleaning products. Note that if you use products not recommended by the manufacturer/supplier or call in a third party, this may affect the benchtop warranty
- there are specialist repair companies that work on benchtops. If you choose this option, look for a well-established company
- natural stone tends to be more porous than created/engineered stone or acrylic and often requires sealing before installation
Cause
Using benchtop as cutting surface
Repair
- contact the supplier/installer to see what they recommend. Note that if you use products/processes not recommended by the manufacturer/supplier or call in a third party, this may affect the warranty
- there are specialist repair companies that work on benchtops. If you choose this option, look for a well-established company
Cause
Impact damage
Repair
- contact the supplier/installer to see what they recommend. For some products, repair kits are available
- there are specialist repair companies that work on benchtops. If you choose this option, look for a well-established company
Cause
Benchtop at the end of its serviceable life
Repair
- the only satisfactory long-term option will be to replace the benchtop