Quartz countertops are a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects due to their durability, stylish appearance, and easy maintenance. However, proper handling is required when installing, caring for, and cleaning quartz countertops to help them look their best and last for years to come. This comprehensive guide will provide tips and best practices for handling quartz countertops throughout their lifetime.

Selecting the Right Quartz Countertop

When choosing a quartz countertop, consider the following factors:

Appearance

Quartz countertops are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns to complement your kitchen or bathroom decor. Slab sizes are typically 55 to 125 inches long for seamless installation along your countertop run. Select a style and color that provides the aesthetic you desire.

Durability

Quartz is one of the most durable countertop materials available today. It is resistant to scratching, staining, burning, and etching. This makes it ideal for heavy use areas like kitchens.

Maintenance

Quartz requires very little maintenance compared to other natural stone surfaces. Simple cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap and water is all that is needed for daily care. It does not require regular sealing or polishing.

Cost

Quartz is more affordable than natural stone like marble or granite. Pricing can range from $50-100 per square foot installed.

Brand

Stick with quality name brands like Silestone, Caesarstone, Cambria, or Hanstone when selecting quartz. Avoid quartz from unknown manufacturers.

See Slabs In-Person

If possible, visit a stone supplier or showroom to view quartz slabs in person. This allows you to get a true sense of the coloration and patterning before finalizing your selection.

Proper Handling During Installation

Careful handling of your quartz countertop during installation is crucial to preventing damage:

• Inspect slabs thoroughly for any cracks or defects before installation. Also check edges and cutouts.
• Lift slabs vertically when moving. Carry slabs upright rather than flat.
• Avoid excessive flexing or bending of slabs during transport and installation.
• Use soft, non-marring clamps and straps when securing slab loads.
• Pad forks or straps at all contact points to prevent damaging the surface.
• Clear the installation area of debris, tools, and hardware to prevent scratching.
• Keep slabs covered with furniture pads, blankets, or cardboard when not being worked on.

Improper transportation or installation handling can lead to cracked, chipped, or broken slabs. Carefully following these guidelines will help ensure your quartz makes it to your countertop intact and undamaged. Contact a professional if you have any concerns about safely maneuvering quartz slabs.

Caring for Your Quartz Surface

Once installed, quartz countertops require very little maintenance. Follow these care tips:

General Cleaning

• For regular cleaning, use a soft, damp, nonabrasive cotton cloth with a mild soap and warm water.
• Avoid all abrasive cleaners, pads, and scrub sponges as they can dull the surface over time.
• Rinse off any soapy residue thoroughly and dry with a clean cloth.
• For food prep areas, clean up spills immediately to prevent staining.

Preventing Damage

• Use cutting boards, trivets, and hot pads to protect quartz from knife scratches, burns, and excessive heat.
• Apply sealants to the edges and cutouts to prevent moisture intrusion that can cause damage.
• Avoid exposing the surface to strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners, etc. They can discolor or etch the quartz.

Stubborn Stains

• For dried spills or stubborn stains, use a nonabrasive cleaner designed for stone surfaces.
• Spot clean only the affected area with a damp soft cloth or nylon scrub pad.
• Do not use a scrubbing motion that could dull the finish.

With proper care, your quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years. Contact your installer or manufacturer if staining or damage occurs that you cannot remove with regular cleaning.

Cleaning Your Quartz Countertop

For optimal results, follow these best practices when cleaning quartz:

Supplies Needed

• Mild liquid dish soap or stone cleaner
• Soft nonabrasive cloth, sponge, or nylon pad
• Small bucket or spray bottle filled with warm water

Daily Cleaning

• Clear counter of any items.
• Fill bucket or bottle with warm water and 2-3 drops of soap.
• Dip cloth in the solution and wring out thoroughly so it is damp but not dripping.
• Wipe down the entire surface using light pressure.
• Rinse with clean damp cloth and dry with a soft towel.

Weekly Deep Cleaning

• Mix a few tbsps stone cleaner into warm water per label instructions.
• Apply cleaning solution to quartz and let sit 3-5 minutes.
• Scrub using a soft nylon bristle brush, applying light pressure.
• Rinse surface thoroughly with plain water. Dry completely with a soft cloth.

Tough Stains

• Apply a paste of baking soda and water and allow to sit for 5 minutes.
• Gently scrub with a soft bristle brush and rinse.
• Repeat as needed for stubborn stains.

Etch Marks

• Use a specialty quartz polish to reduce or remove etch marks. Avoid abrasives.
• Apply polish to etch mark with a soft cloth using circular motions.
• Rinse and dry countertop thoroughly after polishing.

By using the proper techniques and nonabrasive cleaners, you can effectively clean your quartz countertop without causing scratches or wear.

Avoiding Heat and Scratch Damage

Quartz is highly resistant to damage, but proper care is still required to keep it looking pristine. Follow these tips:

Use Trivets and Hot Pads

• Place trivets under pots, pans, or heat generating appliances like instant pots or crockpots.
• Use hot pads when placing hot dishes or trays directly from the oven.
• Allow cookware to cool completely before setting it on the quartz.

Cutting Precautions

• Always use a cutting board instead of cutting directly on the counter.
• Do not allow knives or sharp utensils to scrape along the surface.
• Take care when chopping to avoid bringing knives down with force on the counter.

Don’t Overload Electrical Outlets

• Avoid overloading outlets under the counter such as when using multiple appliances.
• This can generate excessive heat that may damage the quartz.

Lift Appliances When Moving

• Do not slide or drag heavy appliances across the quartz.
• Always lift and place appliances gently to avoid scratching.

Use Placemats or Coasters

Ceramic dishes, glasses, and utensils can scratch quartz if dragged along the surface. Use:

• Cork or felt placemats when setting down dinnerware.
• Coasters under glasses and mugs.
• Flared bases under potted plants.

With extra care taken when conducting kitchen tasks, it is easy to prevent quartz from becoming scratched or damaged.

Repairing Damage like Chips and Cracks

Minor damage can occur on quartz countertops through accidental bumps or drops. Here is how to repair:

Supplies Needed

• Color-matched filler or putty
• Putty knife
• Sandpaper
• Microfiber cloths

Steps to Repair

1. Clean the damaged area thoroughly with warm soapy water to remove any debris.
2. Apply masking tape around the damaged spot to protect the undamaged areas.
3. Follow manufacturer instructions and mix an adhesive color-matched filler or putty. Apply putty to fill in the damaged section just beyond the edges.
4. Allow adequate drying time according to manufacturer directions.
5. Once dry, use a putty knife to carefully scrape off any excess dried putty. Start with edge and corner areas first.
6. Use progressively finer grit sandpaper to smooth the repaired area until flush with the surrounding quartz.
7. Clean countertop well to remove all residue and dust from sanding.
8. If needed, apply additional putty and repeat smoothing and sanding until the repaired spot is level with the counter and matches the quartz color.
9. Polish with a quartz polish and microfiber cloth to restore shine.

For cracks or damage along seams or edges, contact a professional for repair. With some skill and the right products, you can repair chips, divots, or dings in your quartz countertop.

Sealing and Polishing Quartz Countertops

Unlike natural stone, quartz does not require regular sealing due to its non-porous nature. However, proper polishing is recommended to keep your countertop gleaming.

Should You Seal Quartz?

Sealing is generally not necessary for quartz since it resists staining and etching. However, applying a sealant can provide added protection for:

• Countertops around sinks prone to splashes.
• Surfaces exposed to oils like in kitchens.
• Areas susceptible to stains from coffee, wine, etc.

Use a sealant made specifically for quartz if desired. Reapply once a year or as directed.

Polishing Best Practices

• Use a quartz-specific polish to clean and enhance shine.
• Apply polish in a circular motion using a soft cloth or buffing pad.
• Avoid excessive pressure during polishing.
• Rinse and dry thoroughly after polishing.
• Increase frequency in heavy use areas.
• Consider professional polishing services once a year.

With proper polishing, a quartz countertop will maintain its beautiful luster for decades.

FAQs About Handling Quartz Countertops

Does quartz need to be sealed?

Sealing quartz is not required but can provide added protection, especially around sinks and stovetops where liquids or oils may splatter. Use a quartz-safe sealant.

How do you cut on a quartz countertop?

Always use a cutting board instead of cutting directly on quartz. This prevents deep scratches from knives. Take care not to chop with heavy force.

Can you apply wax to quartz?

No, waxes or polish with waxes should not be used on quartz surfaces. These products can lead to buildup and hazing. Use a quartz-specific polish only.

What happens if quartz gets scratched?

Light scratches can be buffed out with a quartz polish and a soft cloth. Deeper scratches may require professional resurfacing. Avoid using abrasive pads which make scratches worse.

Can you set a hot pan on quartz?

Quartz can withstand brief contact with hot pans. However, constant exposure to temperatures above 150°F can potentially damage the solid surface over time. Always use trivets or hot pads to prevent Quartz discoloration or burns.

How do you get water spots off quartz?

Mix a paste of baking soda and water and gently rub the affected area using a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry. For stubborn spots, use a quartz polish. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing.

Conclusion

With proper handling from transport to installation to daily care, quartz makes for an exceptional countertop choice that can remain in fantastic condition for decades. Pay attention to selecting an attractive, high-quality slab. Follow careful handling and cleaning practices using nonabrasive products to prevent scratches and damage. Use trivets, cutting boards, and cleaners designed for quartz surfaces. Address any minor repairs immediately to prevent further issues. With regular gentle cleaning and polishing, you can enjoy durable, low maintenance quartz countertops that stay looking like new year after year.

How to Clean Quartz Countertops

Supplies Needed

• Mild dish soap or stone cleaner
• Soft sponge or nonabrasive cloth
• Clean towel
• Bucket of warm water

Daily Cleaning

• Clear countertop of any items
• Fill bucket with warm water and add a couple drops of mild soap
• Dip sponge in water, wring out thoroughly
• Wipe down entire surface using light pressure
• Rinse with clean damp sponge, dry with towel

Weekly Deep Cleaning

• Mix stone cleaner with warm water per label
• Apply to surface and let sit 3-5 minutes
• Gently scrub with soft brush or sponge
• Rinse thoroughly and dry completely

Removing Stains

• Make a paste of baking soda and water
• Apply to stain and allow to sit 5 minutes
• Gently scrub with soft brush, rinse, and dry

Avoiding Damage

• Use cutting boards and trivets
• Clean up spills immediately
• Avoid abrasive pads and cleaners
• Follow manufacturer care guidelines

Polishing

• Use quartz polish and soft cloth
• Apply polish in circular motions
• Increase frequency in heavy use areas
• Consider professional polishing yearly

Getting the Most Value from Quartz

Check reputation of manufacturer

Stick with quality brand names known for craftsmanship and durability.

Select the right thickness

Thicker 3 cm slabs offer more stability and durability.

Evaluate pattern and finish

Look for attractive, consistent patterns. Glossy or matte finishes available.

Consider upgraded edges

Beveled, ogee, or eased edges add aesthetic appeal.

Install properly

Hire experienced professionals for proper installation.

Add a quality sink

Undermount sinks properly installed look seamless.

Illuminate with lighting

Proper lighting highlights the color tones and patterns.

Care for it properly

Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and care.

Address repairs immediately

Fix chips and cracks quickly to prevent further damage.

Enjoy the benefits

Quartz offers a beautiful, no-fuss countertop for decades.

Common Problems and Solutions

Etching

• Caused by acids left on surface
• Use quartz polish and circular rubbing motion to reduce etching

Food stains

• Clean spills quickly with dish soap and water
• For dried stains, use baking soda paste

Scratches

• Use cutting boards to avoid utensil scratches
• Buff out minor scratches carefully with quartz polish

Heat damage

• Always use trivets for hot pots and pans
• Never overload electrical outlets below quartz

Chips and cracks

• Address chips and cracks quickly with color-matched filler
• Contact a pro for repairs along seams or edges

Dull surface

• Regularly polish with a quartz-specific polish
• Can also have professionally restored

FAQs

How often should you seal quartz?

Sealing is not necessary but can add protection in heavy use areas. Reapply sealant made for quartz every 1-2 years.

What happens if quartz cracks?

Contact a professional immediately if large cracks appear. Smaller cracks or chips can be repaired with bonding filler.

Can you cut on quartz countertops?

Never cut directly on the surface. Always use a cutting board to avoid deep scratches and cuts.

How do you get rid of cloudiness on quartz?

Cloudy areas respond well to a thorough cleaning. Use a quartz polish and buff in circular motions to restore the clarity of the finish.

Can quartz counters stain?

Quartz resists stains very well but spills should still be cleaned quickly. For dried stains, use a paste of baking soda and water and gently scrub.

Conclusion

• Select an attractive, quality quartz product when choosing a countertop
• Handle carefully during transport and installation to prevent cracks
• Use trivets, cutting boards, and cleaners designed for quartz
• Address any minor repairs immediately to avoid further damage
• Clean regularly with mild soap and water to maintain its beauty
• Consider sealing and polishing for added protection and shine
• Quartz offers durability and easy care when handled properly