Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom surfaces due to their durability, easy maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, like any surface, quartz can become scratched and damaged over time. Fortunately, there are methods to reduce and even remove light scratches from quartz.
What Causes Scratches on Quartz?
Quartz is remarkably scratch-resistant, but not scratch-proof. The main causes of scratches are:
- Dragging rough or sharp objects (pots, appliances, tools) across the surface
- Not using a cutting board and slicing food directly on quartz
- Harsh scrubbing with abrasive cleaners or scouring pads
- Spills of acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar that etch the surface
Can You Remove Scratches from Quartz Yourself?
Yes, you can polish out minor scratches yourself. However, deeper gouges will likely require professional refinishing. Here are DIY methods to reduce or remove light scratches from quartz:
Cleaning with Baking Soda
Make a paste of baking soda and water and gently rub it over scratches using a soft cloth. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help buff out subtle scratches. Rinse thoroughly after scrubbing.
Polishing with Soft Scrub
Gently rub a damp cloth soaked in Soft Scrub over scratches using small circular motions. The subtle abrasives in Soft Scrub can polish down light scratches. Avoid applying too much pressure.
Sanding with Fine-Grit Sandpaper
Wet 400-600 grit sandpaper and lightly sand the length of the scratch to reduce its appearance. This smoothes and blends the edges of shallow scratches. Be very gentle to avoid creating deeper grooves.
Applying Car Wax
Use a soft cloth to rub a non-abrasive car or furniture wax into light scratches. The wax fills in the scratches visually and provides a smooth glossy finish. Reapply wax regularly for upkeep.
Automotive Polishing Compound
Use a hand polisher or buffer fitted with a soft pad to apply a thin coat of automotive polishing compound. Work in circular motions to buff out fine scratches. Remove residue and reapply for deeper marks.
When to Call a Professional
For deeper scratches that catch your fingernail or have visible depth, professional refinishing is likely needed. Quartzfabricators have specialized tools and expertise to:
- Sand even deep scratches completely smooth
- Use fine diamond-abrasive pads for aggressive polishing
- Refinish the surface to blend repairs seamlessly
- Match your quartz pattern and design if replacing a section
How to Prevent Scratches on Quartz
To minimize scratches on your quartz surfaces:
- Use cutting boards, trivets and hot pads religiously
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrub pads
- Clean spills immediately to prevent etching
- Apply wax regularly to increase surface protection
- Don’t place rough objects directly on quartz
With proper care and prompt polishing, minor scratches on quartz can be minimized for a like-new appearance. But deep damage will require help from the pros. Protect and preserve your investment by handling your quartz with care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polishing Quartz Countertops
Can I polish quartz myself or do I need a professional?
Minor surface scratches can often be polished out yourself using homemade remedies like baking soda or Soft Scrub. But deep gouges, chips, or extensive damage will require hiring a professional quartz refinishing company.
What homemade solutions work to polish out quartz scratches?
Baking soda, Soft Scrub, car wax, furniture wax, automotive polish, and fine grit sandpaper can minimize the appearance of light surface scratches on quartz when used gently. Avoid harsh abrasives.
How do professionals refinish scratched quartz?
Pros have specialized tools to grind down deep scratches until smooth. Diamond abrasive pads polish out etching and damage. Technicians can blend seamless repairs and match the original quartz pattern/color.
Does polishing quartz decrease its shine and luster over time?
With light hand polishing and the proper techniques, you can safely remove superficial scratches without diminishing the glossy surface. But aggressive refinishing over many years could eventually dull the finish.
Can you feel scratches on quartz after polishing them out?
Light buffing and polishing should smooth shallow scratches so they become invisible and can’t be felt by hand. But deeper grooves often retain some faint visibility and texture even after polishing, especially under lighting.
What household items should be avoided on quartz surfaces?
Never place hot pans, abrasive cleaners, or harsh chemicals directly on quartz. Always use trivets, cutting boards, and mild soaps. Acids like lemon juice can etch the surface. Wipe spills quickly.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops develop scratches over time, but many light surface marks can be minimized with simple polishing techniques. Use baking soda, car wax, or soft scrub to gently buff out subtle scratches. However, deep damage will likely require calling in a professional quartz refinisher to blend repairs seamlessly. With some care and effort, your quartz countertops can maintain their like-new beauty and luster for many years.