Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels due to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, some homeowners wonder if they need to apply any protective treatments to maintain the beauty of their quartz surfaces. Here is a detailed look at whether quartz countertops need special care and treatment.

What is Quartz?

Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. This combination creates a hard, non-porous surface that is resistant to scratches, stains, heat, and cracks.

Unlike natural stone countertops made from granite or marble, quartz does not need to be sealed. The resins bind the quartz particles together to form a solid, impervious surface. This prevents moisture and stains from penetrating into the material.

Do You Need to Seal Quartz Countertops?

One of the biggest appeals of quartz counters is that they do not require sealing. Applying a sealant to the surface is unnecessary because quartz is non-porous. Liquids and stains cannot soak into the material.

Sealing is essential for porous natural stone like granite, marble, and soapstone to prevent staining. But quartz has no pores for sealants to fill. Any sealant applied would simply sit on the surface without absorbing in or offering added protection.

So you do not need to seal quartz counters since the material is already impervious to moisture and stains. This saves you the yearly hassle and expense of reapplying sealant.

Cleaning and Care for Quartz Surfaces

While sealing is not required, quartz countertops do need occasional cleaning to keep them looking pristine. Here are some tips for proper maintenance:

• For routine cleaning, use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads that could dull the surface.
• Thoroughly wipe the counters after spills, especially oils and acidic liquids like lemon juice or vinegar. Acids can etch quartz if left to sit.
• For stubborn stains and residue, use a non-abrasive cleaner designed for stone surfaces. Look for ones without acids or bleach.
• Disinfect quartz periodically with diluted white vinegar. The vinegar kills bacteria without harming the material.
• Avoid exposing quartz counters to extremely high heat. Use trivets for hot pans to prevent thermal shock.
• Reseal any caulking or sealant between the countertop and sink or backsplash. This prevents moisture seeping under the quartz.
• Check manufacturer care guidelines. Some brands have specific products to maintain the warranty.

With routine cleaning and care, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years without losing their shine and luster.

Applying Protective Treatments

Since quartz counters do not absorb stains or etch from exposure, applying a protective wax or polish offers no real benefit. The quartz surface cannot absorb these products either.

Applying a wax or polish will simply create a film on the surface that gathers dust and requires frequent removal. It can also make the counter appear streaky.

The manufactuers of quartz materials advise homeowners not to apply any wax, polish or topical treatments to the engineered stone surface. These products cannot penetrate or bond with the material, and build-up will lead to a cloudy, blotchy appearance.

Occasionally resealing around the edges is the only extra protection recommended. This keeps moisture from getting under the quartz at sink cutouts or where the counter meets tile backsplashes.

Will Quartz Stain or Etch?

One of the biggest concerns homeowners have is quartz counters getting stained or etched. However, quartz is impressively resilient against damage when properly cared for.

Quartz is not 100% stain-proof since no material is completely impervious. But stains that can damage porous natural stone rarely affect quartz:

• Oils, grease, food and drinks wipe away easily with soap and water.
• Acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegars may etch if left for prolonged time. Wipe up quickly to avoid dull spots.
• Indelible stains like ink, dye and colored cosmetics are very rare. The non-porous surface resists absorbing pigments.
• Hot pots and pans generally will not scorch or crack quartz surfaces. But using trivets is recommended to prevent thermal shock.
• Quartz resists scratching and scuffing much better than marble or granite. Only abrasive cleaners and sharp objects can damage the surface.

With responsible cleaning habits, quartz provides long-lasting good looks without losing its polish or requiring yearly sealing. Promptly wiping up spills prevents stains from setting.

Improving Grip on Quartz Counters

The sleek polished surface of quartz can occasionally feel a bit slippery. This is especially true when the counter gets wet or messy while prepping foods or doing kitchen work.

There are a few simple solutions to get better traction on quartz without altering the material:

• Use a rubber mat, towel or hot pads under bowls, cutting boards and appliances. The grip keeps items from sliding.
• Install a textured handle on the front edge of sinks and cooktops for added stability.
• Apply removable non-slip mesh strips to the counters in prep areas when needed. These can be removed when not cooking.
• Use a grout repair marker to add light textural detail between quartz slabs. This subtly breaks up the smooth surface.
• For permanent traction, have the installer apply a gently etched finish instead of high polish. This lightly clouds the quartz.

With creative solutions, you can enjoy the beauty of quartz counters while minimizing slippery surfaces when in use.

Can You Refinish Quartz Countertops?

Quartz counters do not require refinishing or resealing over time like natural stone. The resins that bind the quartz fillers together prevent absorption or etching.

However, quartz can become scratched or scuffed over many years of use. Light scratches can often be gently buffed out to restore the smooth surface:

• Use a soft cloth and a mild abrasive cleaner to lightly buff small scratches. Avoid scrubbing aggressively at one spot.
• For deeper scratches, use a hand pad designed for buffing quartz or granite. Carefully polish in circular motions.
• Apply a stone-safe polish to blend nearby areas so scratches are less visible.
• Ask the manufacturer if they recommend specific refinishing products. Improper cleaners can damage quartz.

For heavy damage like cracks or chips, professional refinishing or replacement may be needed. But with proper care, quartz countertops will retain their original beauty for decades before needing restoration. Their longevity and low maintenance are what make them such a highly valued surface.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Countertops

Should quartz counters be resealed over time?

No, resealing quartz provides no benefit since the material cannot absorb sealants. Quartz is non-porous so liquids cannot penetrate the surface.

How heat resistant is quartz?

Quartz has good thermal tolerance but can crack under extreme temperature changes. Use trivets for hot pans and avoid direct contact with very high heat.

Can you cut directly on quartz counters?

It’s best to avoid cutting foods directly on quartz. Use a cutting board to protect from deep scratches or nicks in the surface.

How often should quartz counters be cleaned?

Clean quartz weekly with mild soap and water to prevent buildup. Promptly wipe up spills, especially oils and acids that can stain if left to sit.

Can you use bleach or abrasives to clean quartz?

No, avoid harsh cleansers like bleach, ammonia, or abrasive pads. Always use a pH-neutral stone cleaner to prevent dulling the quartz surface.

What gives quartz its pattern and coloring?

Pigments are added to the natural quartz particles and resin mixture. Different aggregates and colors create the many patterns and visual styles.

Conclusion

Quartz counters require virtually no sealing, polishing, or protective treatments to stay looking pristine year after year. Their durable non-porous surface resists stains, etching, and heat damage with proper care. Simple routine cleaning and avoiding extreme abrasion or temperature changes will keep quartz counters in exquisite condition for decades. With their longevity and resistance to staining, it’s easy to see why quartz is quickly becoming the top choice over high-maintenance natural stone surfaces.