Polished quartz countertops can start to lose their luster over time from normal wear and tear. Fortunately, it is possible to restore the shine and polish of quartz countertops with a little bit of effort. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to re-polish quartz countertops.
Cleaning and Preparing the Countertop
The first step is to thoroughly clean the countertop. This will remove any dirt, grime, or residue that could interfere with the polishing process.
- Clear everything off the countertop and remove any appliances or accessories.
- Use a multi-surface cleaner or degreaser and a soft cloth to clean the entire surface. Make sure to remove any oil, grease, or soap scum buildup.
- Rinse the countertop thoroughly with clean water and let it dry completely.
Once the countertop is clean and dry, you’ll want to tape off the edges using painter’s tape. This will protect the edges from getting polished.
Choosing the Right Polishing Compound
There are a few options when it comes to choosing a polishing compound for quartz:
- Quartz polishing cream – Specifically designed for quartz, provides light abrasion to remove etching and shine the surface.
- Automotive polishing compound – Contains abrasives to remove scratches and restore glossy finish.
- Jewelers rouge – Extra fine polishing compound often used for metals. Can provide high shine on quartz.
Make sure to select the polishing compound according to the condition of your countertops. If there is just light etching, a quartz polish should suffice. For deeper scratches, you may need a more abrasive automotive polish.
Polishing the Countertop
Apply a small amount of the polishing compound directly onto the countertop surface. Use a damp microfiber cloth and apply light pressure to buff in circular motions. Work in small sections. The compound will begin to haze as it abrasively removes dullness.
- Maintain even buffing pressure as you polish. Avoid leaning heavily in any one spot.
- Keep the surface damp while polishing by spraying water as needed. The moisture helps activate the compound.
- Rinse cloth frequently to remove excess buildup and residues.
After 1-2 minutes of concentrated polishing, use a clean damp cloth to wipe the section clean. Check to see if the luster has been restored before moving onto the next area.
Continue systematically polishing small sections until you have covered the entire countertop surface. Be patient and thorough for best results.
Finishing and Protection
Once the polishing is complete, there are a few finishing steps:
- Wipe down the entire countertop with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
- Use painter’s tape to remove any excess compound near the edges.
- Apply a quartz-specific sealant to protect the renewed polish.
- Buff gently with a soft cloth to remove any sealant residue.
And that’s it! With a little time and elbow grease, you can restore the beautiful polished finish of quartz countertops. Be sure to avoid using harsh cleaners or placing hot items directly on the surface to maintain the polish. Re-polishing once a year is recommended for optimal luster.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes quartz countertops to lose their polish?
Normal wear and tear from daily use can dull quartz over time. Grease, dirt, scratches from cutting or dragging objects can all degrade the surface polish. Acidic spills like wine or fruit juice can also etch the finish.
How often should I polish my quartz countertops?
An annual polishing is usually sufficient for maintaining luster. Quartz is fairly resilient, so polishing may only be needed every 2-3 years depending on use. More frequent polishing can quickly restore shine if dull spots develop.
Can I use a quartz polishing kit from the hardware store?
Yes, quartz polishing kits are a convenient option containing compounds and buffing pads. Follow kit instructions carefully, as polishing incorrectly could further damage the surface. Store-bought kits may not provide as deep a polish as intensive buffing.
Is it possible to over-polish and thin out quartz?
Over-polishing is rare, but using excessive pressure and abrasives can gradually erode the surface over time. Most routine polishing restores the finish without removing significant material. Stick to moderate polishing and you should be fine.
What’s the best way to maintain quartz polish day-to-day?
Using cutting boards, wiping spills quickly, and avoiding harsh cleaners prevents dulling between polishing. Consider applying a monthly quartz sealer to increase water and stain resistance. Always use soft cloths for daily cleaning.
Conclusion
Re-polishing quartz countertops is definitely achievable with some mild abrasion and elbow grease. The keys are using the right polishing compound for your needs, systematic and moderate buffing, and taking precautions not to over-do it. With a proper polishing process, you can restore the luxurious shine and appearance of your quartz countertops. Be sure to care for them properly after polishing to maintain that glossy finish.