Quartz countertops are popular in many modern kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, the edges of quartz countertops are vulnerable and need proper protection to prevent chipping, cracking, or discoloration over time. Protecting the edges will help maintain the beauty and longevity of your investment in quartz countertops. This comprehensive guide will provide useful tips and recommendations on how to best protect the edges of quartz countertops.
Selecting the Right Edge Profile
Choosing the appropriate edge profile is the first step to protecting your quartz countertop edges. The main edge options for quartz countertops include:
Straight Edge
This simple rectangular edge has sharp 90-degree corners. It is the most prone to chipping and cracking, especially on thicker countertops. The straight edge is best avoided for heavy-use areas like kitchen counters.
Beveled Edge
With a 45-degree angled cut, the beveled edge minimizes the visibility of corner impacts. It offers a sleek, modern look. However, the sloped edge can make sliding items from the countertop tricky.
Bullnose Edge
The gentle rounded profile of the bullnose edge helps prevent corner chips and provides a finished look. It is a popular and safe choice for quartz edges in high-traffic zones.
Dupont Edge
Similar to a bullnose edge, the Dupont has a wider, more prominent rounded edge. It gives a smooth, upscale appearance but is more vulnerable to cracks and dents than the subtler bullnose.
Ogee Edge
This edge has an elegant S-shaped curve with a rounded outer corner that rolls in to meet a flat inner corner. The Ogee disguises minor chips well while allowing easy slide-off.
For kitchen counters that will endure daily use, a bullnose or softly curved Ogee edge offers the best chip protection. In low-use zones like bathroom counters, you can select bolder edges like Dupont or Beveled to create a striking look.
Choosing a Skilled Fabricator
Proper fabrication and installation by skilled professionals is crucial to prevent chips and cracks in quartz edges later on. When selecting a countertop fabricator:
- Review their portfolio – Verify they have experience with quartz and the edge profile you want.
- Ensure precision cutting – Their cuts should be exact with no overhangs that lead to later chipping.
- Select reputable workers – Read reviews and choose licensed, insured, and bonded fabricators with satisfied customers.
- See sample work – Evaluate their edge fabrication skill firsthand by examining other quartz countertop installations they have done.
An experienced fabricator will cut the edges smoothly and seamlessly join them using quality adhesives and procedures. They can also advise on the best edge choice considering your selected quartz variety, countertop dimensions, and expected use.
Using Edge Protectors
Installing edge protectors is strongly advised to safeguard the sides of your quartz countertop from bumps, scrapes, and collisions that lead to permanent damage over time.
Edge Protectors During Installation
The installers should attach protectors to shield the edges while transporting and setting up the countertop. Self-adhesive foam strips or padded tape can cushion blows from tools and hardware during the installation process.
Metal Edge Protectors
Stainless steel strips that adhere directly to the sides provide durable impact protection for years of use. Choose edge protectors designed for thickness of your quartz slab.
Temporary Protectors
For temporary protection from short-term use or during a kitchen renovation, soft self-adhesive plastic guards or padded tapes can be quickly installed and removed when no longer needed.
Attaching metal edge guards immediately after installation gives the best and most discreet edge protection. The small upfront investment will save thousands in potential quartz replacement costs down the road.
Handling and Use
How you treat the countertop edges in daily use also determines how well they hold up over time. Follow these tips:
- Avoid placing very hot pots or pans directly on quartz edges. Use trivets and hot pads. Sudden extreme heat can crack quartz.
- Don’t cut food directly on quartz surfaces. Use a cutting board to protect from both scratches and edge impact.
- Take care when placing heavy appliances near edges to prevent cracks and chips from excessive weight.
- Refrain from using quartz edges as levers to move, slide or adjust the countertop position. This applies concentrated pressure that can damage edges.
- Supervise children around quartz edges and discourage behaviors like sitting on countertops that add unnecessary stress to edges.
- Clean spills promptly to avoid liquids seeping into seams and weakening edges.
With extra care and awareness in regular use, you can significantly extend the pristine condition of your quartz countertop perimeter.
Maintaining and Repairing Edges
Like all surfaces, quartz edges get dirty and gradually pick up minor scuffs and scratches from daily life. Simple maintenance keeps them looking like new.
Regular Cleaning
Clean edges frequently with a soft wet cloth and a gentle soap/detergent. Avoid abrasive scouring pads. For stubborn spots, use a non-scratching cleaning product specifically formulated for quartz.
Polishing Edges
If your edges lose their luster, restore the shine by polishing with a quartz polish product and microfiber cloth. Follow the product directions to gently renew the glossy finish.
Disguising Minor Chips
Small chips on edges can often be smoothed over using a quartz repair kit. These contain bonding agents that fill chips and sealants that blend repairs to match the original quartz color. Follow kit instructions carefully.
Refinishing Badly Damaged Edges
For more significant edge damage like large cracks or corner splits, professional refinishing or replacement may be needed. Consult your original fabricator on whether refinishing the ruined edges or the entire slab is the better option. This depends on the extent and location of damage.
With proper precautions and regular care, serious edge damage can be avoided. But even quartz countertops eventually need professional restoration or replacement after years of heavy wear and tear.
Choosing Quartz Varieties with Stronger Edges
While all quartz is resilient, some varieties and slab thicknesses can better withstand edge impacts. When selecting quartz:
- Pick neutral, uniform colors rather than bold swirling patterns. Patterning can disguise small repairs but also highlights damage.
- Opt for quartz made with higher natural quartz content (up to 93-95%) rather than lower quality varieties.
- Get 3cm (1.25 inch) thick slabs for heavy use areas. Thinner 2cm countertops are more prone to chipping.
- Consider quartz blends with aluminum oxide and silica for added surface durability.
- Compare manufacturer warranties. Many provide 10 or 15 year guarantees against defects.
Thicker, high-quality slabs with strong quartz blends will be the most crack and chip resistant along edges.
Protecting Edges in Rental or Commercial Properties
For rental units or commercial spaces with frequent tenant turnover or high traffic, take extra steps to fortify quartz edges:
- Select basic eased or beveled edges rather than dramatic curves prone to nicks and cracks.
- Attach metal edge protectors on all exposed sides before occupancy.
- Require tenants to use cutting boards and hot pads and forbid sitting on countertops.
- Increase lease deposits to cover any major damage to edges.
- Schedule annual professional inspections to spot issues early and make needed repairs.
With heavy use, reinforce edges however possible to maintain their integrity and your long-term investment.
Common Questions about Protecting Quartz Edges
Many homeowners have additional questions when learning how to best protect their quartz countertop perimeter. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How often should I clean quartz edges?
Clean edges daily with just water and weekly with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh cleaners that can strip their protective sealant.
Can I repair chips and cracks in quartz edges myself?
Minor chips under 3 mm wide can be repaired with a good quartz repair kit. But significant cracks require professional refinishing or replacement.
Do quartz edge protectors ruin the aesthetic?
Clear edge guards are nearly invisible once installed. There are also metal protectors made to match most quartz colors. Protectors are a small tradeoff for preventing major damage.
How much overhang should there be for support?
Countertops should overhang the base cabinets by 1/4 to 3/4 inches for full support. Greater overhangs add leverage that can damage edges.
Can extreme heat crack my quartz edges?
Yes, exposing quartz edges to sudden high temperatures from pots, pans, and other hot items can lead to cracks and fissures over time. Always use hot pads.
Why chip so easily compared to the surface?
The edges of a quartz slab have less structural support compared to the full surface resting on cabinets. The vulnerable edges bear the brunt of impacts, leading to chipping.
How do I remove stains from quartz edges?
Use a paste of baking soda and water to gently lift stains from edges. For dried or stubborn stains, apply a quartz-safe poultice left on for 24 hours to draw out discoloration. Avoid bleach.
Conclusion
Quartz offers unparalleled elegance and durability for kitchen and bath surfaces. However, its vulnerable edges demand careful attention. By following these recommendations on edge styles, handling, maintenance, and protection, you can enjoy gleaming quartz countertops that withstand years of use without losing their beauty or function. A small investment in proper edge protection now will preserve your quartz investment and eliminate costly repairs down the road. With some care and foresight, the quartz edges in your home can maintain their like-new appearance for the lifetime of the countertop.