Is Quartzite Hard to Maintain?

Is Quartzite Hard to Maintain?

October 12, 2023
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Like most natural stone, quartzite is porous. While it is typically sealed during installation, this sealant can wear down over time allowing spills to seep in and stain the countertop.

Using non-abrasive cleaners and a soft cloth are the best ways to keep your counters clean. Additionally, you will want to reseal them 1-2 times per year to protect their appearance.

Sealing

Like all natural stone surfaces, quartzite requires periodic sealing to prevent staining and other issues. This is a simple process that involves topping the countertop with a penetrating or topical sealer ($10 to $30 at home centers), allowing it to soak in, and wiping it down with a clean cloth. The resulting barrier helps to preserve the counters’ delicate beauty and extends their durability.

The ideal sealant for quartzite is one that can withstand heavy-duty use. A good choice should also offer robust stain resistance, preventing spills from infiltrating the surface and causing permanent discoloration. Other important features to look for in a suitable sealant include water and oil repellency, and UV protection, which can help to protect the quartzite from color-fading and other damage caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Regularly dusting and wiping down a quartzite surface with a clean, non-abrasive cloth or sponge is another easy way to keep it looking beautiful. Avoid using abrasive scrub brushes or scouring pads, which can scratch the surface and degrade its protective coating. This is a relatively quick and simple step that can significantly extend the lifespan of your countertops. It is especially important to do this regularly in high-traffic areas such as kitchens, where scratches from utensils or accidental chips from dropped items may occur. The more frequently a countertop is used, the more often it will need to be sanded down and resealed.

Cleaning

Quartzite is one of the most durable materials you can find for a countertop, but it still needs regular care and maintenance. The best way to keep your countertops looking beautiful is to wipe them down daily with a damp cloth. This should remove any dust or crumbs that might have collected on the surface, and it will also help to prevent any staining.

Ideally, you should use a mild liquid soap that is designed for natural stone and can be easily rinsed away with clean water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stone and strip away protective sealants. If you do encounter particularly stubborn stains, make a poultice out of baking soda and water to draw the stain out of the pores in the quartzite. Leave the poultice on for two days, then wipe it clean and repeat as needed.

Another option is to hire a professional to treat your countertops. This will ensure that they are impregnated with a completely reliable sealant that is resistant to both water and food-borne bacteria, making your worktop a safe environment for cooking and cleaning. Alternatively, you could purchase a countertop polish that is designed to restore the shine of natural stone. It will not only make your quartzite countertops look shiny again, but it will also protect the stone from etching and discoloration caused by acidic substances like vinegar or citrus juices.

Stain Removal

Though quartzite is durable, there are things that can stain it. Although most slabs are sealed before installation, the sealant can wear over time and leave thin spots where staining agents could reach the stone. To prevent this, promptly wipe up any spills and blot areas with an absorbent cloth before they have a chance to dry. Additionally, avoid using abrasive pads or cleaners, which can scratch the surface and dull the finish.

Lastly, use mats, trivets and coasters for hot pans and cups to further protect your countertops from scratches and etching. You should also wipe down counters after every use to remove food particles and residue. To maintain a clean and healthy look, consider installing a built-in sink to further decrease the risk of contamination.

If stains do occur, they can be removed with a poultice, which is made from a mixture of baking soda and water. You can purchase a pre-made poultice, or make your own by spreading a thick layer over the affected area. Then, cover it with plastic wrap and wait a day or two for the poultice to draw out the stain from the stone. It may take several poultices to fully remove a stubborn stain from your quartzite.

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Regular care for your countertops will help them last for years to come. By resealing them yearly and removing dirt buildup before it can etch the surface, you will keep your countertops looking lustrous. To learn more about how to care for and maintain quartzite, contact a stone supply specialist.

Maintenance

Quartzite is durable and resists heat damage, but it’s still a good idea to use coasters and trivets under hot pots and pans to avoid scratches or chipping. It’s also best to wipe up spills right away to prevent staining. A soft, lint-free cloth is ideal for wiping down surfaces. Avoid using abrasive sponges or metal scrubbers as they may scratch the surface of your counters.

Stick to mild, pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for natural stone when cleaning your countertops. Harsh chemicals like vinegar, citric acid, and bleach will break down the sealant on your quartzite and cause it to lose its shine over time. Using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads can also scratch the surface of your counters.

If you do happen to have a stubborn oil-based stain on your countertop, try making a poultice out of baking soda and water to draw the stain from the surface of your counters. You can also buy special stain removers that contain mineral spirits or 12% hydrogen peroxide. Taping the poultice down with plastic wrap will help keep it wet for longer so it can draw out the stain from your counters more effectively.

Regular cleaning and resealing will help your countertops last for years to come. It’s a good idea to have your counters resealed every one to two years to keep them looking their best and protecting them from staining and pitting.

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