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McLendons.com, as a division of McLendon Hardware, Inc., recognizes that some do-it-yourself projects are more complex and difficult than others and may require greater knowledge and more experience than the reader of this material possesses.

With this is in mind, all information presented is intended to serve as a first step to assist with a project. We do not and will not take any responsibility for the particular results of the above referenced project, nor will we assume any liability for personal injury or damage that may result from the information presented.

We strongly suggest that professional help be consulted if the above project is beyond the comfort or experience level of the reader. As with any project, please also make sure all local building codes are followed and permits are obtained.

Countertops can be one of the most expensive features of a kitchen. However, due to the regular wear of everyday use, many counters eventually suffer minor damage or discoloration. Minor repairs are often possible and relatively easy to perform, sparing the cost of a new countertop.

Stains

Over time, countertops, especially those that are porous can discolor due to stains, burns or other factors. Removing these discolorations in themselves is not particularly difficult. The difficulty comes in trying to match the color of the restored area with that of the surrounding counter.

Even well cared for countertops change color over time as the components age or oxidize. In taking up a stain it is possible, even likely, that the material removed from the counter will leave an obvious mismatched area where the natural color change has also been removed. For this reason, when it comes to countertop stain removal, less is more.

The goal is to be as gentle as possible while still getting all of the undesired discoloration out of the counter. Sometimes this is a matter of using a detergent or rubbing alcohol to dissolve or suspend the stain. More often, however, this requires the use of an abrasive.

Abrasives can take many forms, such as a scouring pad or steel wool. However, it is advisable to start with the mildest abrasive available and only increase the strength if the stain is not coming up. For example, toothpaste is a mild abrasive that would be a good option for many simple stains. However, if that were to fail, other abrasives such as polishing compound, rubbing compound or baking soda paste could be tried.

In addition to removing as little material as necessary, it is important to blend the area in with the surrounding countertop material by working in a circular motion in a spiral out away from the center of the stain. Decrease the amount of pressure used as the diameter of the circular motion increases to help eliminate a clear barrier between the scoured and untouched areas.

Broken Tiles

If your countertop or backsplash is tiled, but tiles are broken, they can be replaced without much hassle. Working from a stack of leftover original tiles is ideal for this, though there is no reason new tiles could not be matched to the existing color if no leftover tiles are available.

Remove the broken tiles by using a masonry chisel and hammer to bring up all of the old tile and mortar material. Also remove any old grout that may be damaged or in the way of new tile placement. Prep work is crucial here, as the cleaner the foundation of the tile, the more securely it will sit. This will make it less likely to crack or come loose over time. For specific instructions about laying tile, please read our tiling a floor article.

Feel free to send us any comments or questions on this Do It Yourself article.

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