Assessing the Scratch
First, take a close look at the scratch and try to determine how deep it is. Light surface scratches can often be buffed out, while deeper scratches may require professional help.
- Run your fingers over the scratch to feel how deep it is.
- Hold a light at an angle to see how visible the scratch is.
- Larger scratches that catch on your fingers will likely need more intensive repairs.
Buffing Out Light Scratches
If the scratch is minor, you may be able to buff it out yourself using a few simple techniques:
Use a Polish
- Apply a quartz countertop polish specifically made for this material. Rub it into the scratch using a soft cloth.
- Let the polish dry completely, then buff the area with a clean cloth until the scratch disappears.
- Repeat as needed until the scratch is no longer visible. This works best for very fine surface marks.
Try a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser
- Dampen a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser and gently rub it over the scratch in a circular motion.
- This can help remove superficial scratches by lightly abrading the surface.
- Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can create more damage.
Use Baking Soda
- Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the scratch, rubbing gently with a soft sponge or cloth.
- The fine abrasive properties of baking soda can help take down the depth of minor scratches.
- Rinse the area and dry thoroughly when finished buffing.
Repairing Deeper Scratches
If simple buffing doesn’t make the scratch disappear, you’ll need a more aggressive approach:
Sand the Scratch
- Start by gently sanding the scratched area with a 600 grit sandpaper to flatten it out.
- Work your way up through finer grits like 800, 1000, and 2000.
- Be sure to keep the sanding localized to the immediate scratch.
- Finish by polishing the sanded area with a quartz polish or buffing compound.
Use a Countertop Repair Kit
- Various kits are made to fill deeper scratches and gouges in quartz.
- Apply filler material to the scratch, allowing it to dry completely.
- Sand and polish the dried filler using the included sandpaper and buffing pad.
- This fills in and levels out the scratch for a smooth finish.
Call a Professional
- For very deep gouges or extensive damage, it’s best to call in a countertop repair technician.
- They have specialized tools and materials to inject adhesive filler deep into scratches.
- The area is then sanded flush and buffed out to look as good as new.
Preventing Future Scratches
To keep your quartz countertops looking pristine:
- Always use a cutting board and protect the surface when prepping food.
- Don’t place hot pans or appliances directly on the quartz.
- Clean with a soft sponge and non-abrasive cleaner.
- Avoid dragging heavy, rough objects across the surface.
- Apply a sealant regularly to protect the finish.
With proper care and these repair tips, you can keep scratches on your quartz countertops to a minimum. But when they inevitably occur, address them right away before they worsen. With a little time and effort, you can restore the beautiful, flawless look of your quartz surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sand out scratches myself?
Yes, you can sand out minor scratches yourself using fine grit sandpaper and polish. Be very gentle and focus only on the immediate area of the scratch to avoid damaging the surrounding surface. Deeper gouges will likely require professional help.
How do I know if a scratch needs professional repair?
If a scratch catches on your fingernail or is still clearly visible in angled light after home buffing attempts, it likely needs a professional-grade filler and polish to truly disappear. Very deep gouges into the quartz material will virtually always require a pro’s touch.
What is the best polish for quartz scratches?
Look for a polish specifically formulated for quartz rather than natural stone. Popular options include Gel-Gloss and Countertop Magic, which help fill in and buff out superficial scratches. Always test in an inconspicuous spot first before applying widely.
Can I use a scratch repair kit on quartz?
Yes, scratch repair kits made for quartz countertops, like those from Countertop Coating and GranQuartz, can work well. Follow all directions carefully. Thoroughly sanding and buffing after applying the filler is key to getting an invisible repair.
Does quartz get scratched easily?
While quartz is very durable, it can get fine scratches over time from things like cooking utensils, knives, pots and pans. But it is more scratch resistant than natural stone. Following care guidelines and properly repairing any scratches will keep it looking as good as new.
Conclusion
Scratches on quartz countertops are common but can often be minimized or repaired with the right techniques. For light surface scratches, methodical buffing and polishing usually does the trick. Deeper gouges may need sanding and filler application. While preventative measures are ideal, knowing how to fix quartz countertop scratches will keep your counters pristine for years to come. Be sure to address any scratches as soon as they appear to get the best results. With some patience and elbow grease, you can make those pesky scratches disappear!