What Causes Scratches in Quartz?
Quartz is an extremely hard material, but not completely scratch-proof. Scratches generally occur from:
- Dragging heavy, rough objects like pots and pans across the surface
- Not using a cutting board and slicing foods directly on the countertop
- Applying too much pressure when scrubbing with abrasive cleaners or scouring pads
- Forcing objects into the surface, like knives or tools
Quartz is more scratch-resistant than materials like granite or marble, but no countertop is impervious to damage. The good news is that minor superficial scratches can often be removed from quartz through buffing and polishing.
Buffing Out Light Surface Scratches
If your quartz countertop has minor scratches, including hairline marks or small abrasions that catch your fingernail, buffing and polishing can effectively remove them. This should be done by a professional stone restoration company.
The process involves using progressively finer grits of diamond abrasive pads, starting with around 800 grit and increasing to 3000 or more. The pads smooth and level the scratched area, blending it into the surrounding quartz. This removes the scratch and restores the quartz’s original polished finish.
It’s essential to work through the complete range of grits – jumping from a coarse 800 grit to a fine 3000 grit will not properly remove the scratches. Done properly, light buffing and polishing can make your quartz counters look brand new again.
Deep Scratches May Require Spot Repairs
If your quartz has deeper grooves that penetrate the surface, simple buffing likely won’t be enough. In these cases, the damaged section may need a spot repair:
- The area is carefully sanded down to remove the scratches.
- Color-matched quartz filler is used to build up and fill the sanded section.
- The filler is shaped flush with the surrounding counter.
- The repaired spot is then polished to blend with the original finish.
Spot repairs minimize the look of damage and restore the structural integrity of your countertop. However, the repaired area may not match perfectly, depending on the quartz finish and pattern.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY kits are marketed for polishing quartz, getting professional help is recommended. Improper buffing and polishing can worsen scratches and damage instead of fixing them. Professionals have the tools, materials, and expertise to properly evaluate the damage and restore your counters.
Preventing Future Scratches
To keep your quartz pristine:
- Use cutting boards, trivets and hot pads. Never cut or place hot items directly on the quartz.
- Don’t drag rough objects across the surface. Lift items to move them.
- Clean with a gentle soap and soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners and pads.
- Immediately wipe up spills, especially acids like lemon juice.
- Consider applying a quartz sealer every 1-2 years for added protection.
While no countertop is completely scratch-proof, quartz can maintain its good looks with proper care. And if scratches happen over time, professional buffing and polishing can often remove light marks, restoring your counters’ smooth finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buff out scratches myself at home?
It’s not recommended. Buffing and polishing quartz requires specialized tools and experience to get the proper results. DIY kits can often worsen scratching instead of fixing it.
How much does it cost to buff out quartz scratches?
Costs vary based on the service provider and extent of damage, but expect to pay $200-$500 or more for professional buffing and minor repairs.
Will buffing work on dull spots or etching?
No, dull spots and etching require a full resurfacing to remove the top damaged layer. Buffing only works on superficial surface scratches.
Can any scratches be fully removed from quartz?
It depends on the depth. Light surface scratches can be removed effectively through buffing. But deeper grooves usually require a spot repair for the best results.
Does buffing ruin the finish or pattern on quartz?
Done properly by a professional, it will not affect the appearance. The quartz is smoothed out to blend with the surrounding material and original polish.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops are engineered to be durable, but no surface is scratch-proof forever. The good news is that light surface scratches and marks can often be effectively minimized through professional buffing and polishing. This cost-effective service can restore the original beauty of your quartz counters. Just be sure to hire an experienced provider to ensure the best results. With proper care and maintenance, your quartz countertops can maintain their good looks for years before needing a true resurfacing.