Light scratches on the surface
Before treating a mark as a scratch, wipe the area with a clean rag. What appears to be a scratch is very often soil sitting on the surface, and it will wipe away with no further treatment needed.
If a rag does not clear it, a light scratch can be buffed out using Aqua-Buff polishing compound or 3M polish compound #06064. Keep the buffing light — this works for surface marks, not for deeper damage.
After buffing, apply sealer over the area so the surface stays easy to clean.
This applies to both bases and wall panels. For chips, gouges, drilled holes, or anything deeper than a surface mark, see our product troubleshooting guidance instead.
Hard water and mineral buildup
Mineral deposits build up on the surface over time, particularly in hard water areas. This may appear as cloudiness, a film, or white spots.
Buildup also changes how water runs across the base toward the drain. If your base drained well for years and now seems to hold water, mineral buildup is a common cause — often more likely than a problem with the base itself.
To treat it:
1. Clean the base with a lime remover
2. Apply the recommended sealer afterward, so the surface is easier to keep clean going forward
3. If drainage still does not improve, check the drain line for a clog
Grout haze
For grout haze, use an acidic cement grout haze remover such as Custom Building Products Aqua Mix Cement Grout Haze Remover, 1 qt: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Custom-Building-Products-Aqua-Mix-1-Qt-Cement-Grout-Haze-Remover-050162-4/300176016
Guidance can differ between solid color and patterned surfaces, so if you have a patterned product, contact CASTICO Customer Care at 844-364-2502 to confirm the right approach before treating the area.
Gray or white discoloration after cleaning
If a base has developed light gray or white discoloration following cleaning, try rubbing alcohol first to see whether it lifts the residue.
If alcohol does not work, Bar Keepers Friend can be used on the base only — never on the wall panels — as an occasional treatment rather than a regular cleaner.
If the discoloration appeared after using vinegar or a steam cleaner, contact CASTICO Customer Care at 844-364-2502 rather than treating it, so we can review the specific case.
Purple discoloration
Purple discoloration on wall panels is caused by bleach exposure and is permanent. It cannot be cleaned, buffed, repaired, or refinished, and a touch-up or repair kit will not correct it.
See our cleaning guidance for more on which products to avoid.