What Causes Scratches on Quartz?
There are a few common causes of scratches on quartz surfaces:
- Cutting or chopping on the countertop – Using a countertop as a cutting board can easily scratch the surface, even though quartz is very hardy. Always use a separate cutting board.
- Dragging heavy or sharp objects across the surface – Appliances, pots and pans, tools, etc can all leave scratches if dragged across the quartz. Lift objects to move them instead.
- Diamonds and other hard minerals – Believe it or not, materials like diamonds used in jewelry can scratch quartz. Keep abrasive jewelry and accessories in a drawer instead.
- Sand and grit – Tiny particles of sand, salt, dirt and grit act like sandpaper on quartz surfaces, slowly causing fine scratches over time. Clean spills quickly to minimize damage.
- Improper cleaning – Using abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or applying too much pressure while cleaning can also mar and scratch quartz. Use only soft cloths and mild cleaners.
Repairing Light Surface Scratches on Quartz
If your quartz countertop has minor scratches but has not lost any actual stone material, the scratches can likely be minimized or removed. Here are some DIY methods to repair light surface scratches:
Sanding and Polishing
Using fine grit sandpaper and polish can help reduce the appearance of light scratches. Start with a 400 grit sandpaper and gently sand the area in circular motions. Move up through finer grits, like 800 and then 1500 grit, sanding until the scratches are less noticeable. Finish by buffing the sanded areas with a quartz polish to restore the surface shine.
Buffing Pads
Special buffing pads designed for stone can also help polish away light scratches. Use a buffing pad together with a stone polish and buff the scratched areas until the scratches fade. Take care not to over-buff, which can create uneven spots.
Baking Soda Paste
For very fine hairline scratches, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the scratches with a soft cloth and rub in a circular motion. Rinse thoroughly afterwards and dry. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can remove minor blemishes.
Mr. Clean Magic Eraser
Magic Erasers utilize melamine foam to safely lift away marks on stone surfaces. Lightly dampen a Magic Eraser and gently rub stained or scratched areas. It will gently abrade the surface without damaging the stone. Rinse after use.
Repairing Deeper Scratches and Gouges
If a quartz countertop is scratched deeply enough that material has been removed, repairs become more complex. Deep scratches may require:
- Filling in with a specialty quartz filler product
- Grinding down the surface to remove deeper scratches
- Full spot replacement of the damaged quartz areas
For best results with deeper repairs, consider hiring a professional quartz fabricator or technician. Improper repairs can result in further damage or very obvious patch marks.
Protecting Quartz from Future Scratches
To minimize future scratches on your quartz surfaces:
- Use cutting boards and hot pads whenever prepping food or placing hot items on quartz.
- Clean up spills quickly, especially gritty substances like sugar or salt that can cause abrasion.
- Avoid using knives or sharp objects directly on the quartz.
- Use placemats and coasters under dishes and glasses.
- Apply a granite and quartz sealer annually to protect from stains and etching.
With proper care and regular sealing, quartz countertops should remain resilient for many years before needing repairs. But when scratches eventually occur, know that there are options to refresh the surface again. Pay attention to prevent deep damage, and address light scratches promptly by sanding, polishing or using other DIY remedies. For major repairs, consult a professional fabricator. With some care and effort, your quartz countertops can look like new again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Repairing Scratched Quartz Countertops
Can I use a buffing pad and polish to repair a scratched quartz countertop myself?
Yes, for minor surface scratches, using a buffing pad and a polish made for quartz countertops can often reduce and remove the scratches. Buff in a circular motion and take care not to over-buff. This works best for light surface scratches.
What are some household products I can use to polish scratches out of quartz?
Baking soda, Magic Erasers and soft cloths can help gently buff out and polish very fine scratches. You can also find quartz polish kits with buffing pads and polish formulas designed for quartz at home improvement stores. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
Is there a scratch repair kit for quartz countertops?
Yes, you can find DIY quartz scratch repair kits online or at hardware and home improvement stores. They contain specialty fillers and buffing pads. Read directions carefully to effectively fill deeper scratches while blending with the surface.
Can I sand down quartz countertops myself to remove deep scratches?
For deep scratches where the stone surface is gouged, it’s best to have a professional do the repairs. Improperly sanding quartz can damage the surface. For light scratches, you can gently sand with fine 400+ grit sandpaper and polish.
How do I know if my quartz countertop scratch needs a full replacement?
If you have cracks, chips or divots in the material, gouges over 1/16″ deep, or extensive damage exceeding 10 inches, a full quartz countertop replacement may be required. Consult a professional for an assessment.
Conclusion
Minor scratched on quartz countertops are fairly easy to remedy with simple buffing and polishing methods. But be careful using excessive force or abrasives, which can worsen scratches. For deep repairs, it is advisable to contact a professional to properly fill, sand and resurface the damaged areas. With some care and technique, most light scratches and blemishes on quartz can be reduced or removed to restore the countertop’s original beauty. Following best practices for protecting the surface can also prevent extensive scratches from occurring in the first place.