Quartz countertops are one of the most popular options for kitchen and bathroom surfaces today. Made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments, quartz delivers an attractive, durable, and low-maintenance surface. However, like all countertop materials, quartz is not impervious to damage over time. Scratches, stains, and loss of shine can occur. When this happens, many homeowners wonder if resurfacing a quartz countertop is possible to restore its original beauty.

What is Quartz Countertop Resurfacing?

Countertop resurfacing entails applying a new surface layer over the existing countertop to conceal imperfections, restore luster, and provide protection. Resurfacing can be done for a variety of countertop materials, including laminate, tile, concrete, and even some natural stones.

For quartz countertops specifically, resurfacing involves using an epoxy-based coating to create a smooth, glossy top layer on the countertop. The resin fills in scratches, evens out stains, and creates a fresh surface. It can restore the original factory finish of quartz countertops that have aged over 5-10 years of use.

The Challenges of Resurfacing Quartz

While resurfacing can successfully refresh many countertop types, quartz poses some unique challenges:

Quartz Density

The resin used to resurface countertops bonds best with porous materials that allow it to seep in. But quartz is non-porous, making adhesion more difficult. Without proper prep, the new coating may peel or flake off.

Uniformity of Quartz Material

Quartz slabs are created from blended quartz fragments and resins. This means each slab can vary slightly in density, texture, and composition. The differences can impact how well resurfacing coats bond and cure.

Sensitivity to UV Rays

Quartz contains polyester resins that can become brittle and degrade over time when exposed to UV light. This can undermine adhesion of a new resin coating.

Prone to Polish Damage

Quartz has a high silica content, making it prone to swirl marks and loss of polish from cleaning and use. Epoxy resurfacing relies on a smooth surface for proper bonding.

Is Resurfacing Right for Your Quartz?

With the challenges quartz poses for resin resurfacing, the process doesn’t work well in every situation. Consider the following factors:

Age of the Countertops

New quartz less than 5 years old is unlikely to need refinishing. Older quartz over 10 years may be too degraded for resurfacing. Wait until absolutely needed to maximize results.

Type of Damage

Surface scratches, etching, and stains are better candidates than impact chips, cracks, burns, or heavy abrasion damage. Severe damage exposes more uneven texture.

Color and Pattern

Solid colors resurface better than bold patterns like faux marbling. Complex designs can show imperfect bonding or become distorted.

Location of Countertop

Heavy use areas like kitchen countertops see more wear and tear. Bathroom vanity tops may still be sound enough to resurface. Consider each area independently.

If your countertops are relatively new or minimally damaged, resurfacing may not add value. But if they are candidates for replacement otherwise, refinishing could grant a few more years of service at a fraction of the cost.

Quartz Resurfacing Process Step-By-Step

If you decide to pursue quartz countertop resurfacing, proper preparation and application is crucial for success. Done correctly by an experienced professional, the process entails:

1. Cleaning and Deglossing

The countertop is thoroughly cleaned then sanded with 150-400 grit sandpaper to degloss and roughen the surface. This promotes better adhesion. All sanding debris must be completely removed.

2. Filling Imperfections

Small chips, cracks, and impact marks are filled with an epoxy filler mix. The filler is leveled flush with the surrounding surface.

3. Applying Epoxy Primer

A thin coat of two-part epoxy primer is brushed evenly across the surface. This gives the final coat an optimal foundation.

4. Spraying Resin Top Coat

The epoxy resin top coat is spray applied to a thickness of about 1/16″. Multiple layers may be needed to achieve full coverage and color uniformity.

5. Smoothing Imperfections

Any bumps or runs in the resin are lightly sanded out before full curing, maintaining the needed layer depth.

6. Polishing to Finish

Once cured, the resin coat is buffed and polished to restore gloss. A grit progression from 600 to 3000 is typical.

7. Sealing and Protecting

A food-safe sealant is applied to protect sanitation and luster. Periodic reapplication is needed over time.

The process requires about 2 days total but yields a refreshed quartz surface. Skilled application minimizes the textural and adhesion risks quartz poses.

Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertop Resurfacing

Like any surface restoration project, resurfacing quartz countertops has both advantages and disadvantages to weigh:

Benefits of Quartz Resurfacing

Cost savings – A full overlay resurface costs $4-12 per square foot installed versus $80-150 per square foot for quartz replacement.
Quick turnaround – The resurfacing process takes 1-2 days versus the demolition and fabrication of new quartz taking 5-7 days.
Minimal disruption – Resurfacing is done on-site, avoiding lengthy time without a kitchen or sinks.
Sustainability – Refreshing existing counters avoids landfill waste and the energy costs of new production.
Color change options – Resurfacing allows switching color and finish instead of being limited by previous selection.
Extends counter life – Restoring the surface buys 5-10 more years of service before needing replacement.

Drawbacks of Quartz Resurfacing

** Temporary fix** – Resurfacing only masks damage rather than replacing the compromised substrate, so has a limited lifespan.
Risk of delamination – Improper prep and application can lead to the coating peeling or chipping off prematurely.
Some flaws still visible – Major chips, cracks, and seams may still be faintly evident after resurfacing.
Fumes during application – Some homeowners can be bothered by strong smells from epoxy primers and resins during installation.
Surface disruption – The 2-day application means the kitchen or bath can’t be used during the process.
Chance of color variation – Density differences in slabs can potentially cause subtle color inconsistencies after resurfacing.

How Long Does Resurfaced Quartz Last?

When done correctly by an reputable company, a resurfaced quartz countertop typically lasts 3-8 years before needing renewal. The durability of the application depends on several factors:

Quality of preparation and adhesion
Level of daily use and abuse
Products used for cleaning and maintenance
Exposure to direct sunlight causing UV damage
Skill of initial application and recoats

With proper care, most resurfaced quartz countertops last 5-7 years before the coating wears thin in high traffic zones. Periodic reapplication can refresh the surface and extend the service life further. In bathrooms or lightly used areas, resurfacing may last closer to 8-10 years.

Maintaining and Cleaning Resurfaced Quartz

Once your quartz counters are resurfaced, certain care is required to maximize the longevity of the epoxy coating:

Use only pH-neutral cleaners, avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasives.
Rinse thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue.
Wipe spills quickly to prevent staining.
Avoid exposing the surface to excessive heat.
Use trivets, hot pads and cutting boards to protect from scratches.
Reapply sealer every 1-2 years as needed.
Check for early wear in high use areas and recoat as needed.

With proper maintenance and avoiding damage, a resurfaced quartz countertop can stay looking fresh and renewed for years before needing redone.

Quartz Resurfacing Costs

Professional quartz countertop resurfacing costs $4-12 per square foot on average based on your location and the company doing the work. Cost factors include:

Accessibility – Easy to reach areas are cheaper than resurfacing hard-to-access surfaces.
Switching colors – A full change of color costs more due to needing heavier coating for opacity.
Complexity of job – Simple rectangle shapes are cheaper than resurfacing counters with cutouts.

-Degree of damage – Light scratches are quicker than resurfacing deeply etched or worn surfaces.

Choice of materials – Higher-end primer and resin costs more but delivers greater durability.
Amount of detailing – Intricate edge profiles and backsplashes add labor time versus straight edges.
Region and company rates – Pricing can range based on average wages and demand in your area.

A typical 30 square foot kitchen quartz countertop costs $900-1500 to resurface. Get free estimates from 3-4 local companies before deciding.

Should You Resurface or Replace Quartz?

Knowing when to resurface quartz versus completely replace it depends on several factors:

Resurface When:

Damage is largely surface-level like scratches, staining, and etching.
The countertop structure itself is sound underneath.
You wish to change the color or finish.
Budget is a concern and you want the most cost-effective fix.
Disruption needs to be minimal.
Wasting functional countertops seems unethical.

Replace When:

The slab has major cracks, chips, burns that go deep into the substrate.
The countertop feels unstable, loose, or hollow underneath.
You desire a layout change like adding new cutouts.
Quartz has degraded unevenly causing very visible differences.
You want to upgrade to a higher-end quartz.
The resurfaced finish keeps failing prematurely.

Getting an experienced countertop pro to assess the state of your existing quartz is wise to determine if resurfacing is the right solution or full replacement is needed. Consider how long you plan to stay in the home when deciding between restoration and replacement.

Resurfacing Companies to Consider

If you elect to have your quartz countertops resurfaced, choosing the right applicator is key to getting results that will last. Characteristics of a reputable resurfacing company include:

Strong portfolio – Multiple examples of successful quartz resurfacing projects with happy clients.
Proper credentials – Licensed, bonded, insured, and experienced working specifically with quartz.
Use of quality products – Brand name primers and resin coatings with warranties.
Attention to prep – They understand proper sanding, cleaning, and addressing damage areas.
Craftsmanship – Evidence of meticulous spraying, smoothing, and polishing for a seamless finish.
Warranty protection– At least a 5-year warranty covering delamination or coating failure.
Realistic guidance – They give fair assessment on whether resurfacing is advisable or replacement recommended instead.

Carefully vet companies before selecting one. Investing in the best quality application is important to gain years of added life from a resurfaced quartz countertop.

Is DIY Quartz Resurfacing Possible?

With the cost of professional quartz resurfacing ranging from $4-12 per square foot, some homeowners understandably research if DIY resurfacing is possible as a cheaper alternative.

However, DIY quartz resurfacing comes with some significant challenges:

Achieving the proper prep and cleaning is difficult without commercial tools.
Specialized epoxy primers, resins, and sprays are required, which homeowners can struggle to source.
Spraying an even coat takes skill with epoxy resins. DIY attempts often result in uneven texture.
The curing process is very particular in terms of timing and conditions. Small mistakes can ruin adhesion.
A very high gloss polish is hard to accomplish without a commercial buffer and compounds.
Most DIY-available products lack the durability and scratch resistance of commercial-grade resins.

For these reasons, there are very few scenarios where DIY quartz resurfacing yields professional-quality results that will last and be cost-effective long-term. Leaving it to the experienced pros is usually the smartest call.

Should You Resurface Other Countertop Materials?

While quartz poses some challenges, epoxy resurfacing can successfully refresh many other countertop types:

Laminate – Being porous, laminate accepts resurfacing well, hiding scratches and stains.
Tile – Resurfacing tiles evens out grout lines and coats over cracked, chipped tiles.
Concrete – Concrete’s porosity allows excellent adhesion for resurfacing coatings.
Granite – Polished granites with worn shine can often be recoated with success.
Marble – Sensitive marble benefits from a protective resurfacing layer.
Solid surface – Materials like Corian can be resurfaced effectively.

Seeking experienced guidance is wise to assess if existing countertops are fit to be renewed through professional resurfacing. The cost savings versus replacement make it an appealing option when feasible.

Maintain Beauty Without Replacing Quartz

Quartz offers one of the most durable and low-maintenance countertop materials that can withstand years of heavy use. But no surface is immune to damage over time. Instead of undergoing the expense and work of tearing out quartz counters, resurfacing provides a fast, affordable way to restore their original beauty in many situations. With proper assessment of your existing counters, smart prep, and expert application, resurfacing can grant your quartz countertops a fresh lease on life.

FAQ About Resurfacing Quartz Countertops

Resurfacing quartz countertops poses some unique challenges compared to other countertop materials. Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about the process:

How is resurfacing different than quartz repair?

Repair entails discrete fixes to specific flaws like filling chips or patching cracks. Resurfacing involves covering the entire surface to renew the overall appearance and texture.

What about resurfacing quartz versus granite or marble?

Quartz is less porous than natural stone, making adhesion of the epoxy coating more difficult. Extra prep is required for quartz to succeed.

Can any color quartz be resurfaced?

Solid colors are best. Busy patterns like faux marbling can end up with distortion or blurring of details from coating variation.

Does resurfacing get rid of scratches and etching?

Yes, it fills in and hides defects like scratches, scuffs, and etch marks to create a renewed surface. Severe gouges may still faintly show.

Can you change the color when resurfacing?

Yes, resurfacing allows changing colors, usually to darker tones. Extra opaque coating is needed to fully cover the original color.

How smooth does quartz need to be for resurfacing?

The surface must be smoothed by sanding to remove the top gloss layer and any prominent imperfections that could telegraph through the new coating.

What’s the average cost per square foot to resurface quartz?

$4-12 per square foot is typical based on the amount of damage, color change, intricacy of the project, and your location.

Does resurfacing work on quartzite too?

Quartzite is harder than quartz so resurfacing adhesion is more difficult. Full replacement may be better for badly worn quartzite.

Can you apply the coating yourself as a DIY project?

DIY resurfacing almost never achieves professional durability and appearance. Hiring experienced pros is strongly advised.

How long does a resurfaced quartz countertop last?

Properly done, it lasts 3-8 years before needing renewal. Periodic recoating can extend the lifespan further.

Resurfacing your quartz counters is a big project not to be undertaken lightly. Consulting the pros for an honest assessment of feasibility can give you confidence in the best path forward, whether refinishing or replacement. With realistic expectations of the process, results, and costs, resurfacing offers a great way to cost-effectively restore the beauty of worn quartz surfaces in many homes.

Conclusion

Quartz countertops remain one of the most elegant, durable, and user-friendly surfaces available today for home kitchens and baths. But no material is impervious to damage over years of use. Rather than the expense and work of full quartz replacement, resurfacing provides a fast, affordable way to restore the original beauty in many situations. With realistic expectations about the longevity and appearance of a resurfaced finish, the process can successfully maintain your existing investment for years to come. Seeking professional guidance is wise to determine if your specific counters are candidates for renewal. For quartz surfaces that are structurally sound but suffering wear and tear damage, resurfacing by the right applicator can grant them a fresh lease on life.

Can You Resurface Quartz Countertops?