Polishing quartz countertops after cutting them is an important final step to ensure they have a beautiful, lasting finish. With some simple supplies and techniques, you can achieve a smooth, glossy surface.
What You’ll Need
- Quartz polishing kit – Contains a polishing cream or gel and an applicator pad
- Microfiber cloths
- Soft cotton cloths
- Bucket of clean water
- Gloves and eye protection
Prepping the Surface
Before polishing, the quartz surface must be free of dust, grease or debris that could cause scratches.
- Clean the surface with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly.
- Allow the surface to dry completely.
- Inspect for any remaining debris or dried adhesive. Carefully scrape off with a plastic putty knife.
Polishing Steps
Follow these steps to polish and finish your quartz countertop:
1. Apply Polishing Cream
Apply a quarter-sized amount of polishing cream directly onto the applicator pad. Spread it evenly across the surface using circular motions.
- Cover a small work area of about 2-3 square feet at a time.
- Allow the polish to sit for 1-2 minutes.
2. Polish the Surface
Begin buffing the polish into the stone using firm, circular motions. Apply even pressure over the entire area.
- Work the polish thoroughly into the stone for 3-5 minutes per section.
- Add more polish as needed to keep the pad lubricated.
3. Wipe Away Excess
Use a clean, soft cotton cloth to carefully wipe away any excess polish or residue.
- Work in circular motions.
- Rinse the cloth frequently in clean water.
- Change cloths often to prevent haze or streaking.
4. Inspect and Repeat
Examine the section. It should have a smooth, consistent sheen with no dull or darker spots.
- Repeat polishing if needed to remove swirl marks or haze.
- Continue polishing the remaining sections until the entire surface is complete.
5. Clean and Dry
With a damp microfiber cloth, give the whole counter a final wipe down.
- Remove any remaining haze or residue.
- Dry thoroughly with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
Tips for Best Results
- Work in manageable sections for best control.
- Keep pads moist but not dripping for ideal cut and shine.
- Rinse applicator pads frequently to prevent residue buildup.
- Change water when it appears dirty.
- Avoid pressing too hard, which can cause micro-scratches.
- Be patient – polishing takes time to achieve high gloss.
- Consider sealing after polishing for easier ongoing maintenance.
With some time and effort, polishing will restore the smooth factory finish of your quartz countertop. Proper care and annual re-polishing will keep them looking pristine for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does quartz countertop polishing take?
It takes about 30-45 minutes to polish a 6-foot section. So expect polishing an entire kitchen to take 2-3 hours. Work in manageable 3-5 foot sections. Taking your time leads to better results.
Can I use a polish that’s not made for quartz?
No, only use polishes formulated for quartz. Others may contain abrasives that damage the surface. Quartz polishing kits contain micro-abrasives tailored to quartz’s durability.
How often should I polish my quartz countertop?
Plan to polish quartz every 1-2 years with normal use. Areas with heavy use may need polishing annually. Regular polishing keeps the finish fresh and prevents permanent etching.
What’s causing cloudy white spots on my polished quartz?
This residue is likely from mineral deposits in water. It can be prevented by thoroughly wiping and drying during polishing. Remove dried haze with a polish made for quartz restoration.
Can I polish just part of my quartz countertop?
It’s best to polish the entire surface at once for an even, consistent sheen. But you can spot polish sections that show more wear, using the same techniques in a small area.
Conclusion
Polishing quartz countertops after cutting and installation is simple with some basic supplies and steps. Working methodically section-by-section will achieve a smooth, clear shine. With proper care, your quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years. Be sure to polish annually or whenever dull spots develop to maintain their factory finish.