Polishing dull quartz countertops can restore their beautiful, glossy finish. With a bit of effort and the right supplies, you can make your quartz counters shine again. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to polish dull quartz countertops.
What You’ll Need
- Quartz polish/cleaner – Look for a product specifically formulated for quartz.
- Microfiber cloths – Soft cloths that won’t scratch.
- Rubbing compound – Use a fine grade polish made for quartz.
- Orbital polisher (optional) – Speeds up the polishing process.
- Protective gear – Gloves, goggles, mask.
Cleaning and Prepping the Surface
Before polishing, you need to thoroughly clean the countertops to remove any dirt, grime or residues that could hinder the polishing process.
- Clear all items off the countertops. Remove any appliances or accessories.
- Use a quartz cleaner to wash the counters and rinse well.
- Let the surface dry completely. Make sure there is no moisture left.
Inspect the counters closely. Mark any damaged or etched areas. These may need more attention during polishing.
Polishing by Hand
Polishing quartz countertops by hand takes more effort but can be effective.
Step 1 – Use a Rubbing Compound
- Pour a small amount of rubbing compound on the countertop.
- Using a damp microfiber cloth, rub the compound over the surface.
- Apply light pressure and work in circular motions.
- Concentrate on dull, etched spots.
- Let the compound sit for 2-3 minutes.
Step 2 – Buff the Surface
- Take a fresh dry microfiber cloth.
- Vigorously buff the countertops to remove residue and haze.
- Make sure to remove all traces of compound.
- Buff in broad, even strokes. Avoid swirls.
Step 3 – Inspect and Repeat
- Check to see if the finish has improved. Look at different angles.
- For really dull areas, repeat steps 1 and 2.
- Multiple rounds of polishing may be needed.
Using an Orbital Polisher
An orbital polisher speeds up the quartz countertop polishing process.
Step 1 – Attach Polishing Pad
- Choose a soft buffing or polishing pad designed for quartz.
- Fasten the pad securely to the polisher head.
Step 2 – Spread Compound
- Apply a line of rubbing compound to the surface.
- Switch on the polisher at low speed.
- Gently work the compound over the counters with overlapping movements.
Step 3 – Increase Speed
- Once compound is spread, increase the polisher speed.
- Keep the polisher moving constantly. Avoid lingering in one spot.
- Apply light pressure and polish until residue is minimal.
Step 4 – Remove Residue
- Take a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
- With the polisher off, buff the entire surface to a streak-free finish.
- Make sure all residue is removed before moving to the next step.
Applying a Quartz Countertop Sealer
For long-lasting protection, apply a quartz sealant after polishing.
- Clean counters thoroughly and let dry before sealing.
- Use a sealant formulated for quartz.
- Apply sealer as directed on the product label.
- Buff off any residue for a smooth, polished finish.
- Avoid water contact for at least 24 hours.
Tips for Maintaining the Shine
To keep your quartz counters gleaming:
- Use a quartz cleaner for daily wipe-downs.
- Avoid abrasive cleansers or scrubbing pads.
- Immediately wipe up spills, especially acidic substances.
- Reseal counters every 1-2 years for protection.
- Consider professional quartz polishing every 3-5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I polish my quartz countertops?
- For regular maintenance, polish once a year. High traffic areas may need polishing every 6-9 months.
Can I use car wax on my quartz counters?
- No, car wax should not be used as it can lead to a cloudy, hazy finish. Stick to quartz-specific polishing products.
Is it okay to polish just the problem spots?
- Spot polishing is fine for minor issues. But for evenly dull counters, do the entire surface for uniform results.
What causes quartz countertops to look dull?
- Etching from acids, hard water stains, weathering, normal wear and tear can all give quartz a lackluster look.
Should I hire a pro to polish my counters?
- For DIYers with some experience, polishing quartz yourself can definitely work. But for extensive polishing, pros may do it faster.
Conclusion
Dull quartz countertops can detract from your home’s aesthetic. By following these steps on how to polish dull quartz countertops, you can restore their shine and have them looking brand new again. Be sure to prep properly, work in sections, and take your time. With the right tools and techniques, this is a manageable DIY job. Just be cautious not to over-polish or damage the surface. Your sparkling quartz counters will be worth the effort.