Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodels thanks to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. But one question that often comes up is whether you need to seal quartz counters. Here is a detailed look at sealing quartz countertops.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The result is a hard, non-porous surface that is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat.
Unlike natural stone countertops like granite or marble, quartz does not need to be sealed. The resins bind the quartz particles together to form a solid, impervious surface.
Do You Need to Seal Quartz Countertops?
The short answer is no, quartz counters do not need to be sealed. Since the material is non-porous, sealing it would have no benefit. Liquids and stains cannot penetrate the surface, so a sealant cannot offer additional protection.
Sealing is only required for porous natural stones like granite, which have tiny holes and cracks that allow liquids to seep in. The sealant fills these voids to prevent stains. But quartz has no pores, so sealing it would be pointless.
Why Quartz Doesn’t Need Sealing
There are a few key reasons why quartz countertops do not require sealing:
- Non-Porous Material: Quartz is highly dense and non-porous, so liquids cannot soak in or leave stains.
- Resin Binders: The resin used to make quartz counters makes the material impervious.
- Stain Resistance: Quartz is engineered to resist stains even without a sealant.
- Low Maintenance: One of the appeals of quartz is that it requires very little maintenance compared to natural stone.
Does Sealing Harm Quartz?
Applying a sealant to quartz counters will not damage the material, but it offers no benefit. The sealer will simply sit on the surface without penetrating or soaking in.
Over time, the sealer may start to build up, leaving a hazy film on the countertop that requires removal. Using a sealant incorrectly could also result in a tacky finish.
Since sealing quartz provides no protection or improvement, it’s best to just avoid it. Save your money and effort for occasional cleaning.
Quartz Countertop Maintenance
To keep your quartz counters looking like new:
- Clean spills promptly with a soft cloth and mild soap and water.
- For stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner designed for stone surfaces.
- Avoid abrasive cleansers and scouring pads, which can dull the finish.
- Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
- Reseal adjoining surfaces like tile backsplashes yearly.
- Avoid exposing the surface to harsh chemicals.
With proper care, your quartz countertops will stay beautiful and stain-free for many years without requiring any sealant. The material is engineered to be low-maintenance in terms of sealing and protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I seal my quartz countertops before use?
No, there is no need to seal new quartz counters. The material comes pre-sealed from the factory. Adding another layer of sealant will not improve stain resistance.
How can I add shine to my quartz countertops?
Regular cleaning with a quartz-safe cleaner is the best way to maintain the polished finish. Avoid abrasive pads and harsh chemicals that could dull the surface. You can also apply a quartz polish to enhance the shine.
I spilled red wine on my quartz. Will sealing it now help?
No, sealing quartz cannot remove existing stains, it only aims to prevent stains by filling pores. Thankfully, red wine often comes off quartz with some elbow grease and a stone-safe cleaner.
Should I seal the grout lines around my quartz countertop?
Yes, it’s a good idea to seal the grout yearly since grout is porous. Use a penetrating grout sealer and apply carefully to avoid contact with the quartz surface.
Does sealing quartz help prevent scratches?
No, sealants cannot prevent scratches since they don’t make the surface harder. To avoid scratches, use cutting boards, avoid abrasives, and don’t drag heavy objects across the quartz.
Conclusion
One of the many low-maintenance benefits of quartz counters is that they do not require sealing. Their non-porous composition means liquids cannot soak in, so a sealer would be useless. Simply keep quartz clean with mild soap and water to maintain its factory-sealed beauty and durability. With proper care, your quartz counters will stay looking like new for years without any sealant required.