Quartzite countertops are nearly indestructible. Made from a high-value natural stone and matching almost any kind of decor, these products remain a cost-beneficial investment that fills the home design market with beautiful patterns, colors, and possibilities. However, for as durable as they are, learning how to care for quartzite countertops is a pivotal step in extending their lifespan – and preserving their original glossy charm.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the recommended steps in quartzite maintenance, explaining the importance of routine care and the famous sealers.
Read as well: How much are quartzite countertops?
Why quartzite countertops should be given attention
Quartzite is a metamorphic, porous natural stone. It’s prized for its natural beauty, often resembling marble (but with greater durability) and coming in various colors and patterns, adding elegance and uniqueness to your space.
That said, unlike marble, quartzite doesn’t require as much maintenance. Upgrading to quartzite countertops can increase the value of your home due to its durability and luxurious appearance, making it an attractive feature for potential buyers. Also, it can be used in various applications beyond countertops – such as backsplashes, walls, and flooring, offering a cohesive design throughout your space.
Due to these benefits, quartzite countertops are becoming a preferred choice for many homeowners looking for a blend of durability, beauty, and low maintenance in their kitchen or bathroom surfaces.
Read the full guide on quartzite countertop colors here.
How to care for quartzite countertops: the 4 pillars of maintenance
Ultimately, no matter how you look at it, there are 4 main ways to take care of your natural stones, particularly when it comes to quartzite. They don’t necessarily follow a hierarchy model but rather complement each other; the secret is knowing the exact physical state of your stone to properly care for it, undergoing a complete restoration if needed.
Check out below:
Cleaning
Properly sealed surfaces (read more about it in the next section) won’t be susceptible to water or food stains easily – so all you need to do is clean your quartzite countertop at least once a week with water and mild detergent. You can also use a cloth, a paper towel, a microfiber cloth, or a sponge to carefully scrub the stone’s surface when it collects dust.
It’s as simple as that – and you can incorporate it into your cleaning routine without fuss. The important thing to remember here is to avoid acids, both on cleaning products and spills. The rule is that, if a spill happens, you clean it as soon as possible, even faster if it’s an acid spill. Here, we’re referring to elements such as lemon juice, vinegar, wine, soda, and orange juice.
Now, if your countertop is located in the kitchen, leftover spills will inevitably happen, but a proper sealant can handle them. However, keep in mind that acids will reduce the sealant’s effectiveness, nullifying its point over time, so these simple measures are the best way to prevent major problems and unnecessary maintenance costs that are easily avoidable.
Of course, commercial quartzite cleaning solutions are also available on the market, which become an easy-to-apply option on the go. Just remember to pick one that’s made specifically for quartzite stones, given the amount of different chemical compositions out there. Some products we can suggest include:
- STAIN-PROOF’s Daily Countertop Cleaner
- Black Diamond’s Quartz Countertop Cleaner & Polish
- STONE PH’s Countertop Cleaner Neutral Kitchen & Home Cleaning
Handling
Your countertop deserves to be treated like any appliance or furniture in the house. That means that, even upon sealing your countertops, it’s a good idea to protect its nearby surfaces, including cabinets and floors, to prevent any accidental damage to the setup during daily activities.
You see, a knife can do much worse damage to your countertop than a rough sponge, for instance – and in this case, things like investing in chopping boards for your food preparation are crucial. Likewise, if you find a build-up of any stubborn residue on the counters (like dried oatmeal), do not try to save time by using a sharp blade to scrape it off, as you will risk worse damage to the counter. Instead, wet the mark and use a blunt tool like a putty knife to ease it away, or apply your cleaning method of choice before it becomes a bigger headache.
Sealing
Sealing quartzite countertops is an important step in preserving their shiny, glossy beauty and protecting them from stains and other potential damage. Quartzite is a natural stone that – while not as dense as granite – is still relatively durable, and properly sealing its porous surface will help prevent liquids from penetrating the stone and causing stains, scratches, etches, and even cracks.
When selecting a sealer, take into account factors such as the specific type of quartzite you have, the desired level of protection and appearance enhancement, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Any accidental mistake can cost you more than it should, and you’re doing this to avoid further damage in the first place!
It’s a good idea to consult with a nearby professional or supplier for step-by-step guidance on the most suitable product for your needs. Always read product reviews and consider factors like ease of application and durability when making your choice.
You may read our complete guide to quartzite countertop sealers here.
Polishing
Finally, if you’re having more serious issues – such as chips, deep scratches, cracks, and fissures – or your stains are not coming out, don’t worry. There is always something we can do – and the same is true if you have old stone surfaces that have not received the due attention for a long time.
Stone specialist service providers can restore your natural countertops by hard polishing them and using other techniques with power tools. Here, a DIY approach only works if you have previous experience with masonry up your sleeve, so always look for the right information and professional guidance before anything. You’d be surprised by the results!
That said, the frequency of polishing depends on various factors – such as the type of quartzite, its use, and the level of maintenance – but it is not required as frequently as sealing. It can be done every few years if your countertop is properly maintained with the previous steps.
And speaking of professional service providers…
Check out our online catalog of impeccable quartzite slabs!
Now you know how to care for quartzite countertops. If you already have a quartzite countertop waiting to be restored, we can take care of it for you; if you’re still browsing the web for the perfect slab, we also got you!
Eagle Stones is a stone supplier based in Sarasota, Florida. In case you live near us, don’t hesitate to contact our professional team – who can help you choose the best product for your house, give you a free estimate, go over to install it, and even seal your new quartzite countertop for the best price in town.
We’ve providing clients with their dream renovation for over a decade – and you can be next! After you learn how to care for quartzite countertops correctly, make sure to get in touch for further details.
