Quartz countertops are popular in kitchens and bathrooms thanks to their durability, stain resistance, and stylish appearance. However, even these hardy surfaces can get unsightly burn marks from hot pots and pans. Fortunately, there are several effective methods for removing burn marks from quartz.
What Causes Burn Marks on Quartz?
Quartz countertops are made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. This material is very heat resistant, but extremely hot cookware can still damage the surface. When a hot pan, oven rack, or other item is left in one spot, it can scorch or discolor the quartz. This leaves a light or dark mark on the surface.
How to Remove Light Burn Marks
If you have a faint heat stain or discoloration, there are a few DIY solutions to try:
Baking Soda and Water Paste
Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with just enough water to form a spreadable paste. Apply this paste to the burn mark and let it sit for several hours or overnight if possible. The baking soda will help draw out the burned material. Wipe it away and rinse thoroughly.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide can bleach away lighter stains. Dip a soft cloth in undiluted 3% peroxide and gently rub the burn mark. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing. Be careful, as peroxide may lighten the quartz color around the burnt area.
Cleansing Powder
Make a paste from a gentle powder cleanser like Bon Ami and water. Lightly scrub the paste over the mark using a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly after 10 minutes.
Fine Steel Wool
Gently rub a very fine grade steel wool pad over the discoloration. Take care to rub in the direction of the quartz pattern and not apply too much pressure. This mild abrasion can help lift off stained material.
For any of these methods, check a small inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the quartz.
Removing Severe Burn Marks
If a pot or pan was left on the quartz while extremely hot, it may have left a more pronounced burn mark or even pitted the surface. There are a few ways to tackle these stubborn stains:
Wet Sanding
Using 400-600 grit wet/dry sandpaper, gently sand the burnt area under running water. Start with light pressure in a circular motion. Check often to see if the mark has lifted. Once it appears gone, buff the sanded spot with a soft cloth.
Polishing Compound
After sanding, apply a dollop of automotive polishing compound to the sanded area. Rub it in with a soft cloth using small circles. Use a clean cloth to buff off any haze and polish the quartz. This helps blend the area.
Quartz Countertop Repair Kit
For deep burns, pits, and scratches, use a specialized quartz repair kit. These contain fillers, etching cream, and bonding agents. Follow kit directions to fill damaged spots and blend with the surrounding countertop. Kits are available online or at hardware stores.
Preventing Future Burn Marks
The best approach is to take steps to prevent burn marks in your quartz countertops:
- Use trivets and hot pads under hot pans, dishes, and appliances.
- Don’t put baking sheets or oven racks directly on quartz after cooking.
- Allow cookware to cool before placing on countertops.
- Clean spills immediately to avoid staining.
- Follow quartz care guidelines to keep the surface pristine.
With some persistence and the right techniques, you can remove pesky burn marks from quartz. Pay attention when cooking and take precautions to avoid future scorching. Your beautiful quartz will look as good as new.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Burn Marks from Quartz Countertops
How long does it take to remove burn marks from quartz?
It depends on the severity of the burn mark. Light discoloration may come out with a simple cleaning solution in just 5-10 minutes. For more stubborn stains, you may need to let a poultice sit overnight or repeat sanding and polishing steps over a few days. Deep burns and pits can take several rounds of filling and sanding to fully repair.
Will the quartz look different after removing the burn?
If it’s a light mark, the quartz should return to its original appearance once cleaned. You may temporarily lighten or darken the area with chemicals, but it should blend after rinsing. For deeper damage, sanding and filling techniques can blend the repair but slight variations may be noticeable under certain lighting.
Can you remove burn marks without sanding quartz?
Yes, mild marks often come out with household cleaners, hydrogen peroxide, baking soda paste, etc. Try these alternatives first before moving to sanding solutions for stubborn stains. However, sanding may be necessary to smooth pitted or cracked areas.
Do burn marks eventually come out of quartz on their own?
No, burn marks will not disappear on their own over time. The discoloration is due to staining or etching of the quartz surface. Leaving it will allow the mark to set and potentially worsen. It’s best to use removal techniques as soon as possible after the burn occurs.
Should you call a pro for severe quartz burns?
For light and medium stains, DIY solutions often work well. But if you have deep burns, pitting, or cracks in the quartz, it’s advisable to contact a professional countertop repair specialist. Improper sanding or filling could cause further damage. An expert can blend repairs to maintain the look of your countertops.
Conclusion
Burn marks on quartz countertops are unsightly but treatable in most cases. For light discoloration, household ingredients like baking soda and peroxide can lift stains. More ingrained marks may need sanding and polishing to gently remove the damaged area. Prevention is ideal, so always use trivets and give hot items time to cool before placing on quartz. With some effort, you can successfully erase burns from quartz and keep your counters looking like new.