Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance. However, like any surface, quartz can become scratched over time. Fortunately, there are ways to buff out minor scratches and restore the countertops’ original luster.
What Causes Scratches on Quartz?
Quartz is remarkably scratch resistant, but not scratch proof. The main causes of superficial scratches are:
- Metal items like pots, pans, utensils, knives, keys etc scraping across the surface
- Appliances like a toaster or coffee maker being slid across the countertop
- Dust and grit getting trapped under objects and abrading the surface when moved
- Accidental cuts from a knife or scraper
Quartz is made from crushed natural stone blended with resins and pigments. Deep scratches and gouges can damage through the top layer exposing the lighter core.
Can You Remove Scratches from Quartz Yourself?
Yes, you can buff out minor scratches yourself. The key is using the right techniques and products formulated for quartz.
Supplies Needed
- Soft cloth or microfiber towels
- Mild non-abrasive liquid cleaner/polish
- Smooth plastic putty knife or scraper
- Extra-fine grit sandpaper (1500-3000 grade)
- Buffing pad or very fine steel wool
- Masking tape (for sanding)
- Rubbing compound or automotive polish
Step-by-Step Process
- Clean the area – Remove any dirt or residues with a mild non-abrasive cleaner and soft cloth before polishing.
- Try liquid quartz polish first – Apply a small amount of quartz polish to the scratch and rub with a soft cloth using circular motions. Repeat until the scratch intensity is minimized.
- Use sandpaper if needed – For deeper scratches, tape around the area to protect the surrounding surface. Gently rub an extra-fine grit sandpaper across the length of the scratch to reduce the depth.
- Smooth with steel wool – After sanding, rub the area with fine (0000 grade) steel wool to blend and smooth the sanded spot.
- Polish and buff – Apply a rubbing compound or automotive polish with a buffing pad. Rub using circular motions until the scratches disappear and the quartz regains its shine.
- Clean residual polish – Wipe away any excess polish with a soft dry cloth. Check under lighting to ensure the scratches are no longer visible.
Getting Professional Help
For very deep gouges or extensive scratch damage that covers a large area, it’s best to hire a professional quartz restoration company. They have specialized tools and techniques to remove even severe scratches. Common professional approaches include:
- Wet sanding – Uses water and extra-fine grit abrasive pads to flatten and smooth the damaged area.
- Spot polishing – Localized polishing with adjustable speed rotating buffing equipment.
- Full surface re-finishing – Mechanically sanding down the entire countertop surface to uniformly erase and re-polish the quartz.
Professional refinishing provides the most thorough scratch removal possible. The cost depends on the size of the damaged area and method used.
Maintenance Tips to Prevent Scratches
While quartz is durable, a few precautions will help minimize scratches:
- Use cutting boards instead of slicing directly on the quartz.
- Install padding under appliances and accessories to prevent abrasion.
- Immediately wipe up spills to avoid residue buildup in scratches.
- Avoid harsh cleaners that can dull the surface.
- Regularly apply a quartz polish to enhance the sheen.
- Install a sink-bottom grid to prevent metal pans and pots from rubbing the quartz under the sink.
Can You Repair Scratches in Quartz Yourself?
Yes, you can repair minor scratches in quartz countertops yourself without professional help. Light buffing with fine sandpaper, steel wool, and rubbing compounds can effectively reduce and even eliminate shallow scratches and restore the quartz’s original appearance. The key is using the proper materials and techniques designed for quartz. But deeper gouges or extensive scratch patterns covering a large area will require a professional quartz restoration service for the best repair results. With the right methods, even severely scratched quartz countertops can be given back their original flawless finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use automotive buffing or polishing compounds on my quartz countertops?
Yes, automotive polishes and buffing compounds work well to remove light scratches from quartz. Just be sure to select a high-quality product specifically made for clear coat finishes, and test in an inconspicuous spot first before applying to visible areas.
Will refinishing quartz countertops affect the color or finish?
Done properly, refinishing should not alter the factory finish. However, extensive sanding and polishing can slightly lighten or enhance the sheen. Have a professional do a sample spot to ensure you are satisfied with the results before refinishing the entire surface.
What are some everyday things I can do to prevent scratching?
- Use cutting boards for food prep instead of cutting directly on the quartz.
- Clean spills quickly to avoid residue buildup in scratches.
- Apply wax or quartz polish regularly to fill in small scratches.
- Install padding under appliances and accessories.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
Is it ok to use a scraper on quartz countertops?
Scrapers should be avoided as they can cause deep scratches and damage to quartz surfaces. If needing to remove stuck-on residues, opt for a non-abrasive plastic spatula. Rub gently and avoid pressing too hard.
Can you remove or repair chips in a quartz countertop?
For small chips at a corner or edge, an epoxy resin filler can be used to fill in the damage. Larger chips or cracks may require a professional patch job. Replacing the damaged section may be needed for severe chips or fractures that affect structural integrity.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops are susceptible to scratches but fortunately most of them can be buffed out by the homeowner using the right methods and materials. For superficial scratches, liquid quartz polish, fine sandpaper, steel wool, and rubbing compound can effectively minimize and remove abrasions. Professional refinishing services provide the most thorough scratch repair for extensive damage using specialized equipment and techniques. With proper care and maintenance, quartz countertops can stay looking like new for many years before Scratches ever become an issue.