Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom renovation projects. Made from engineered stone, quartz counters are praised for their durability, ease of maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, many homeowners wonder if they need to apply a sealant to quartz counters to protect them. Here is a detailed look at whether sealing quartz countertops is necessary.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground quartz crystals combined with polymer resins and pigments. The resins bind the quartz particles together to form a hard, nonporous surface.
Some key advantages of quartz counters:
- Extremely durable and scratch-resistant
- Stain-resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
- Does not require regular sealing
Quartz has surpassed natural stone like granite and marble in popularity for countertops due to its superior performance and minimal maintenance needs.
Do Quartz Counters Need to Be Sealed?
The short answer is no. Unlike natural stone, quartz countertops do not require regular sealing.
Here’s why:
- Quartz is nonporous – It does not absorb liquids and resists staining. Natural stone is porous and can stain without a protective sealant.
- Sealants cannot penetrate quartz – Since quartz is engineered and nonporous, sealants only form a coating on the surface that eventually wears away.
- Manufacturers advise against sealing – Major quartz brands like Caesarstone and Silestone recommend not sealing their products. It provides no real benefit and can void the warranty.
- Quartz resists damage without sealing – Unsealed quartz counters retain their stain, scratch and scorch resistance for years. Sealing provides no added protection.
So sealing quartz counters is considered unnecessary by manufacturers. The material’s nonporous property and tightly bound resins keep the surface damage-resistant without any seal coating.
Quartz Countertop Maintenance
Even though sealing is not required, simple maintenance keeps quartz counters looking like new:
- For everyday cleaning, wipe with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Disinfect surfaces with diluted bleach – 1 part bleach to 10 parts water.
- For dried spills, use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad.
- Reapply caulk if gaps appear around edges.
- Avoid exposing counters to strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners, etc.
- Use cutting boards and trivets to protect from knives and hot pans.
With routine care, quartz countertops will stay beautiful and functional for decades without sealing. Proper cleaning and avoiding damage are the keys to longevity.
Signs Your Quartz Countertops Need Sealing
Since sealing is not recommended, how do you know if your quartz counters actually need a sealant applied? Here are a few telltale signs:
- Noticeable staining – Liquids are absorbing into the surface and leaving discoloration.
- Chalky dull spots – Areas have lost their polish and shine.
- Difficult to clean – Spills and dried residue do not wipe off easily.
- Visible scratches accumulating – Surface seems prone to scratches and marks.
- Used cleaner too harsh – Signs of damage after using abrasive scrubbers or chemicals.
If quartz counters display these problems, a sealant could help restore stain and scratch resistance. Consult a countertop pro before applying anything to verify that sealing is advisable.
How to Seal Quartz Countertops
If sealing quartz counters becomes necessary, follow these steps:
1. Clean and dry the surface – Remove all debris, residue, oils etc. for sealant to properly bond.
2. Read product instructions – Follow manufacturer’s directions for application and drying time.
3. Apply sealant evenly – Use overlapping strokes and spread evenly across the surface.
4. Let dry completely – Allow sealer to cure fully before using countertops. This prevents premature wear.
5. Test performance – Spot test sealed areas by dripping water to check repellency before exposing to spills and use.
6. Reapply as needed – Quartz may need resealing every 1-2 years depending on usage and sealant quality.
Be sure to use a sealant designed for quartz and granite countertops, not standard stone sealers. Choose a reputable brand and follow instructions precisely. With a high-grade sealer applied properly, quartz can regain its stain-resistant luster.
FAQs About Sealing Quartz Countertops
Should I seal new quartz counters?
No, brand new quartz comes pre-sealed from manufacturing and does not require additional sealing.
What is the best sealer for quartz?
Water-based polyurethane sealers formulated for stone work best.
How long does quartz sealer last?
Typically 1-2 years before reapplication is needed. Frequency depends on usage and sealer quality.
Can I seal just part of my quartz countertops?
It’s best to seal the entire surface evenly for uniform protection. But spot sealing problem areas is possible.
Does sealing quartz change the appearance?
Good sealers are designed to penetrate without altering the look. But an overly thick application can create a glossy film.
Can I seal over an existing quartz sealer?
Yes, you can apply a new coat of sealer over an older one after thoroughly cleaning the counters.
Conclusion
Although quartz countertops do not require sealing like natural stone, a sealant can replenish stain protection if needed. Sealers cannot penetrate engineered quartz, so application is only recommended if counters show signs of damage. Simple cleaning and care make sealing quartz counters unnecessary in most homes. But if problems develop, a professional quartz sealer application can often restore performance. With just occasional maintenance, quartz counters will stay beautiful and easy to clean for many years without regular sealing.