Quartz countertops are popular options for kitchens and bathrooms because they are durable, low-maintenance, and come in a variety of colors and patterns. However, like any surface, quartz can become chipped over time. Small chips can detract from the look of your countertops and become sites for bacteria and dirt to accumulate. Thankfully, there are several effective methods for repairing chips in quartz.
What Causes Chips in Quartz Countertops?
Chips in quartz most often occur from impact damage. Dropping heavy or sharp objects on the countertop can cause chips and cracks. Using the countertop as a cutting surface can also lead to chips over time, especially with a ceramic knife. Quartz is very durable, but not completely invincible against damage.
Heat can also damage quartz and cause cracks and chips. Putting extremely hot pots and pans directly on the surface should be avoided. Using trivets and hot pads is recommended to prevent thermal shock.
Lastly, improperly cleaning quartz with abrasive scouring pads or powders can slowly erode the surface over time, making it more susceptible to chipping. Always use non-abrasive quartz-safe cleaners.
How to Repair Small Chips in Quartz
Small chips less than 1/4 inch wide can often be repaired with a quartz chip repair kit. These kits contain an adhesive color-matched putty to fill chips and an activator solution to cure the putty. The process is straightforward:
1. Clean the chip thoroughly – Remove any debris from inside the chip. Clean with isopropyl alcohol to remove waxes or oils.
2. Apply activator liquid – Dip the included brush into the activator liquid and brush it into the chip. This allows the putty to bond.
**3. Mix putty **- Knead the color-matched putty until it reaches an even consistency. Mix in the included hardener drops as specified.
4. Fill chip – Press the putty firmly into the chip, overfilling slightly.
5. Sand and polish – After drying, sand the putty smooth and flush with the surrounding quartz using included sandpaper. Polish with a quartz polish or buffing pad.
With the proper color match and techniques, chip repair kits can make chips virtually invisible. The repaired area will be stained and sealed to resist moisture and prevent bacterial growth.
Fixing Larger Chips in Quartz
For chips larger than 1/4 inch or cracks, a more extensive repair process is required:
1. Clean and prepare the damaged area – Remove any loose chunks or debris. Use sandpaper to scrape the sides of the chip into a “V” shape to help grip the adhesive.
2. Mix adhesive epoxy – Use a colored epoxy designed for quartz and stone repair. Thoroughly mix the adhesive according to package directions.
3. Fill the chip – Press the epoxy firmly into the chip, overfilling the area slightly. Apply painter’s tape around the repair if needed to hold it in place.
4. Allow to cure – Most quartz epoxies take 12-24 hours to fully harden. Avoid disturbing or cleaning the area during this time.
5. Sand and polish – Once cured, use increasingly finer grit sandpaper to smooth the epoxy completely flush. Finish by polishing.
6. Seal the repaired area – Apply a penetrating quartz sealer to fill any remaining pores in the epoxy and prevent staining.
With patience, larger chips can be filled and become nearly invisible. Seek help from a professional if the chip is over 3 inches or you do not feel comfortable completing the repair yourself.
When to Call a Professional for Repair
For some types of damage, it is best to hire a professional quartz fabricator:
- Cracks wider than 1/16 inch – Any major cracking should be professionally repaired to prevent further damage.
- Multiple chips over a large area – Repairing many chips across the countertop is best left to the experts for seamless results.
- Improperly color-matched repairs – A pro can accurately color-match the quartz and achieve invisible repairs.
- Chips near sinks or seams – These high-stress areas require specialty adhesive and techniques.
- Heavy impact damage – Significant impact damage may require replacing quartz sections.
- No DIY experience – First-time repairs on expensive countertops can be nerve-wracking. Pros get it right the first time.
While DIY kits work for minor chips, extensive damage is best repaired by a trained quartz technician. Their experience, tools, and materials will provide the longest-lasting fix.
Tips for Preventing Chips in Quartz
To reduce the chances of needing repairs, follow these quartz care tips:
- Use cutting boards instead of cutting directly on the counter.
- Immediately wipe up spills – don’t let liquids sit.
- Avoid dropping heavy objects on the quartz.
- Use trivets and hot pads under hot dishes.
- Clean with non-abrasive quartz cleaners only.
- Inspect quartz regularly for any chips or damage.
- Have protective sealers reapplied every 2-3 years.
With proper care and regular maintenance, you can help your quartz countertops look pristine for years before needing repairs. But when chips do occur, follow these steps on how to fix chips on quartz countertops and prevent further damage. Careful DIY repairs or professional help will have your countertops looking brand new.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fixing Quartz Chips
How much does it cost to repair a chip in a quartz countertop?
For DIY repairs, quartz chip repair kits cost $15-$50 depending on the brand. Professional repairs cost $100 to $500 depending on chip size and complexity. Replacing a section of a quartz countertop due to extensive damage can cost $200-$1000.
Can you use epoxy to fix chips in quartz?
Yes, two-part epoxy specially formulated for stone repair works well for fixing chips in quartz. Make sure to use an epoxy that matches the color of your countertop. Apply according to the product instructions for best results.
What color putty do I need to repair my quartz countertop chip?
Use a putty or epoxy that matches your specific quartz color and pattern. Some kits include putties in several colors to best match the chip. Bring a sample of your quartz to find an accurate color match for larger repairs.
Should you use super glue to fix a quartz countertop chip?
No, avoid super glue. It will likely discolor and stand out. Use a putty or epoxy designed for stone repairs to fill the chip properly and match the surrounding quartz.
Can you buff out chips and scratches in quartz countertops?
No, buffing and polishing cannot remove deep chips, cracks, or scratches from quartz. The surface needs to be repaired by filling in the damaged spot with a putty or epoxy adhesive first before polishing.
Conclusion
Chips and cracks in quartz countertops are common but repairable. For barely noticeable chips, DIY chip repair kits offer an easy, affordable fix. Larger chips and surface damage require specialty quartz epoxy and a bit more skill. Preventing chips through proper care and maintenance is ideal, but following these repair techniques can keep your quartz counters looking like new. With some effort and the right materials, you can successfully fill in chips and scratches on quartz.