Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom renovations due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and low maintenance requirements. However, some routine care and maintenance is still required to keep quartz countertops looking like new. Here is a detailed look at do quartz countertops need maintenance.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz particles combined with resins and pigments. The quartz provides strength and hardness, while the resins bind the material together. The end result is a countertop surface that is non-porous, stain resistant, and durable.
Do Quartz Countertops Need Any Maintenance?
While quartz countertops are low maintenance compared to other natural stone surfaces like granite or marble, they do require some periodic maintenance. Here are some of the key maintenance requirements for quartz countertops:
Cleaning
- Quartz should be cleaned regularly with a mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads that can damage the surface.
- For stubborn stains, a non-abrasive cleaner formulated for stone surfaces can be used.
- Disinfect quartz periodically with a stone-safe disinfectant.
- Keep quartz clear of spills as soon as possible to prevent stains from setting.
Sealing
- Quartz does not need to be sealed as frequently as natural stone.
- Manufacturers typically recommend sealing quartz every 1-2 years.
- Sealing fills in microscopic pores and prevents staining.
- Use a sealant specifically designed for quartz.
Polishing
- Periodic polishing helps restore the original glossy finish.
- Use a quartz polish product to buff out etch marks and minor scratches.
- Avoid wax or treatments containing oils that can lead to buildup.
Inspections
- Visually inspect quartz regularly for any cracks or damage.
- Check caulked seams and backsplashes for any gaps or deterioration.
- Have a professional inspect adhesive if you notice any areas of bonding failure.
What Kind of Routine Maintenance Does Quartz Need?
For regular care and upkeep, quartz needs very little day-to-day maintenance. Follow these basic guidelines:
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining.
- Clean with a mild soap and warm water using a soft cloth.
- Avoid exposing the surface to strong chemicals.
- Use cutting boards and hot pads to protect from scratches and burns.
- Never use cleaners containing acids, alkalines, or bleach.
- Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and buff dry with a cloth.
- Re-seal every 1-2 years with a quartz sealant.
Does Quartz Need Special Cleaning Products?
- Quartz does not require special or expensive cleaners.
- Warm water and mild dish soap works well for most routine cleaning.
- For occasional deep cleaning, use a gentle stone cleaner.
- Make sure any cleaning products are specifically designed as quartz-safe.
- Avoid abrasive pads and cleaners that can damage the finish.
How to Remove Stains from Quartz Countertops
Quartz resists stains better than marble or granite. However, some spills can still stain if left too long. Here are some tips for removing stains:
For oil-based stains:
- Immediately blot with a paper towel. Avoid aggressive scrubbing.
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water.
- Use a soft cloth to gently clean the stain. Rinse well.
- For stubborn oil stains, apply a small amount of ammonia. Rinse thoroughly.
For water-based stains:
- Blot up liquid spills right away.
- Mix warm water and a few drops of hydrogen peroxide.
- Dip a cloth into the mixture and place over the stain for 2-3 hours.
- Reapply more mixture as needed until stain fades.
For permanent stains:
- Use a poultice formulated for quartz to draw out deep stains.
- Make a paste with the poultice powder and water and apply to the stain.
- Cover with plastic wrap and allow to sit overnight before rinsing clean.
Does Quartz Need to be Resealed?
- Quartz does not require sealing as often as granite or marble.
- The resins make quartz less porous than natural stone.
- However, sealing is still recommended every 1-2 years.
- This prevents stains from penetrating the surface over time.
- Use a sealant specifically designed for quartz.
- Apply the sealer evenly across the entire countertop.
Can Quartz Countertops Crack or Chip?
Quartz is very durable, but it can be prone to damage if subjected to significant impact or force. Here are some tips to prevent cracks and chips:
- Use cutting boards when chopping to prevent knife damage.
- Immediately wipe up spills of acidic substances like wine or juice.
- Avoid dropping heavy objects on the countertop.
- Inspect quartz regularly and re-apply caulk if gaps appear.
- Lift objects rather than dragging across the surface to avoid scratches.
- Heat protection is vital to prevent thermal shock cracking.
Does Heat Damage Quartz?
- While very durable overall, quartz can be vulnerable to damage from extreme heat.
- Prolonged direct heat exposure can cause the resins in quartz to break down.
- Using trivets and hot pads is highly recommended to prevent damage.
- Cracking or discoloration can occur if hot pans are directly placed on quartz.
- Thermal shock also becomes a risk when exposing quartz to sudden and rapid temperature changes.
- Take care to prevent burning or scorching the surface with super-heated cookware or appliances.
How Long Does Quartz Countertop Maintenance Take?
The good news about quartz countertops is that maintenance does not require a major time investment:
- Daily cleaning only takes a few minutes with some warm water and dish soap.
- More thorough deep cleaning a couple times per month may take 15-20 minutes.
- Sealing the entire countertop once every year or two takes about one hour.
- Periodic polishing to remove etch marks can be done in 30 minutes.
- Inspecting for damage and re-applying caulk can be done as needed in just a few minutes.
Conclusion
While quartz requires less maintenance than natural stone surfaces, proper care is still needed to keep quartz looking pristine over many years. With routine cleaning, sealing every 1-2 years, heat protection, and prompt repairs from any cracks or chips, quartz countertops will stay looking like new with minimal maintenance required. Be sure to use quartz-safe cleaners and sealers, and wipe spills quickly to prevent stains. With some simple care, quartz countertops are sure to provide long-lasting durability and beauty in kitchens and bathrooms.