Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. Made from ground quartz stone mixed with resins and pigments, quartz countertops are praised for their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, like any surface, quartz countertops can become damaged over time. Fortunately, there are ways to repair and restore quartz countertops to keep them looking like new.
Assessing the Damage
The first step is to assess the type and extent of damage to determine the best repair method. Here are some of the most common types of damage on quartz countertops:
Scratches and Scrapes
Over time, quartz can develop light scratches and scrapes from day-to-day use. Cutting directly on the countertop or dragging heavy, abrasive objects can cause scratches. Thankfully, light scratches are often repairable.
Chips and Cracks
Dropping a heavy object on a quartz countertop can chip or crack the surface. The severity depends on the force – a small chip may be superficial but a significant impact can crack through the entire slab.
Stains
Quartz is less porous than natural stone so it resists stains quite well. However, prolonged exposure to staining agents like wine, oil, and grease can cause stubborn discoloration.
Burns
Excessive heat can scorch quartz and leave burn marks. Setting a hot pan, especially cast iron, directly on the surface can damage it.
Once you’ve assessed the type and extent of damage, you can determine the best repair method.
Cleaning and Polishing for Light Damage
For light surface scratches and scrapes, sometimes a thorough cleaning and polishing is all that’s needed to reduce their appearance.
Supplies Needed
- Mild nonabrasive cleaner or dish soap
- Soft cleaning cloth or sponge
- Quartz polish or automotive polish
- Soft polishing pad
Steps
- Clean the damaged area with a mild cleaner and soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly.
- Apply a small amount of quartz polish or automotive polish to the damaged spot.
- Rub the polish in using small circular motions with a soft polishing pad. Apply light pressure.
- Wipe away any excess polish and buff the area to a shine.
- Repeat as needed until the scratches blend into the surrounding quartz.
This simple polishing method can drastically reduce the look of light surface scratches.
Repairing Chips and Cracks
For minor chips, gouges, and cracks, specialized quartz repair kits allow you to fill in the damage.
Supplies Needed
- Epoxy adhesive or repair resin
- Color matched filler putty
- Putty knife
- Sandpaper
Steps
- Clean and dry the damaged area thoroughly.
- Mix the epoxy resin or repair putty according to package directions.
- Fill in the damaged spot just past the surface, letting it cure completely.
- Once hardened, sand the area smooth and flush with the surrounding quartz.
- Clean and polish the repaired section to blend it into the countertop.
For best results, use a filler putty color matched to your quartz. This DIY repair method works well for chips up to 1 inch wide. For larger cracks and damage, a pro may be needed.
Treating Stains on Quartz Countertops
Quartz resists stains quite well but prolonged exposure to spills can cause discoloration. Here’s how to tackle tough stains:
Supplies Needed
- Mild nonabrasive cleaner or dish soap
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Soft cleaning cloth or sponge
Steps
- Try cleaning the stain with a mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly.
- If it persists, make a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Apply to the stain and let sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Scrub gently with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly.
- Dry completely and check if the stain has lightened or lifted. Repeat as needed.
- For stubborn stains, seek help from a pro. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the quartz.
Catching spills quickly and cleaning as soon as possible is key to preventing stains. But even set-in stains can often be removed with some persistence.
Fixing Heat Damage on Quartz
Exposing quartz countertops to excessive heat can scorch and discolor the surface. Here are some tips for repairing heat damage:
Supplies Needed
- Soft nylon brush
- Mineral spirits or paint thinner
- Fine steel wool
- Re-polishing kit
Steps
- Gently scrub the damaged spot with a soft brush and mineral spirits to remove any charred residue.
- Use fine steel wool to lightly buff and blend the scorched area. Take care not to scratch the surrounding quartz.
- Clean and dry the area thoroughly after buffing.
- Use a quartz polish and buffing pad to re-polish the countertop. Blend and smooth the transition.
- Avoid placing hot pots, pans, or bakeware directly on quartz in the future to prevent more damage. Always use trivets and hot pads.
For severe burns, replacing the damaged section of the countertop may be necessary. But light heat damage can often be minimized with some polishing.
Knowing When to Call a Professional
While DIY methods can fix minor quartz countertop damage, it’s best to call in a pro for certain issues:
- Large cracks or chips more than 1 inch wide
- Extensive impact damage or quartz seams coming apart
- Deep gouges unable to be filled flush with putty
- Severely burned or warped areas
- Stains that don’t respond to cleaning methods
Hiring a professional quartz fabricator is advisable for significant damage. They have specialized tools, materials, and expertise to seamlessly repair quartz.
Preventing Future Damage
Taking steps to prevent damage in the first place will keep your quartz countertops looking pristine for years:
- Use cutting boards instead of cutting directly on the quartz
- Don’t drag pots, appliances, etc across the surface
- Always set hot pans on trivets – never directly on quartz
- Wipe up spills as soon as they occur
- Clean with mild soap and water – avoid abrasive cleaners
- Have the countertop re-sealed every 1-2 years for added stain protection
With proper care and regular maintenance, quartz countertops will stay looking like new and avoid the need for repairs. But even if some damage does occur over time, know there are great options to have them looking flawless again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the easiest DIY method to fix light scratches on quartz?
Using a quartz polish or automotive polish to gently buff out light scratches can reduce their appearance. Clean the area thoroughly first, apply a small amount of polish, and rub in circular motions with a soft pad.
How well do quartz repair kits work for chips and cracks?
For minor chips and cracks up to 1 inch, quartz repair kits with color-matched filler putty do a decent DIY fix. Just thoroughly clean and dry the damaged spot first. Fill with putty just past the surface, let cure, then sand smooth.
Can stains be fully removed from quartz countertops?
Many stains can be removed by cleaning promptly with dish soap and water, or using baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. For tough stains it’s best to contact a pro – avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage quartz.
Is it possible to fix quartz countertops scorched by hot pans?
Light heat damage can often be repaired by gently buffing with steel wool then re-polishing the area. But deep scorching may require replacing that section of the countertop. Always use hot pads!
If my quartz countertop damage is extensive, how do I find a good repair pro?
Contact a reputable local quartz fabricator. Look for one that specializes in quartz repair and restoration, checks past work, and offers a warranty on their service. Get a few quotes to compare.
Conclusion
While durable, quartz countertops can become scratched, stained, chipped, or burned over years of use. Thankfully, many DIY methods can successfully fix minor damage. For more significant damage, calling in a professional quartz repair expert is advised. With proper care and maintenance, beautiful quartz countertops can stay looking like new for many years.