Yes, if left untreated for many years, hard water stains can effectively become permanent because continuous mineral accumulation chemically etches, pits, and damages the underlying porous surface material. When hard water evaporates repeatedly on glass, porcelain, or natural stone, the deposited minerals bond permanently with microscopic pores in the material, destroying the smooth factory finish. While strong acids can dissolve the surface mineral crust, the physical etching or pitting left behind in the glass or porcelain often remains permanent. Verification: Run your fingernail across the stained area; if the surface is deeply pitted or gouged, the damage is permanent.
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