What is a Sealer and Why Remove it?
A sealer is a protective coating applied to the surface of quartz countertops. It is meant to prevent stains, etching, and damage from moisture. Some homeowners choose to have a sealer applied by the countertop installer for extra protection.
Over time though, sealers can start to wear away or deteriorate. This causes the quartz to lose its glossy look and makes the surface feel rough. An old sealer may also start to discolor or turn yellowish. For these reasons, you may want to remove the old sealer before reapplying a new coat.
How to Remove Sealer from Quartz Countertops
Removing old sealer from quartz requires using a chemical stripper. It is not recommended to sand or scrape the sealer off. This can damage the quartz surface. Follow these steps:
1. Clean and Prepare the Surface
First, clean the countertops thoroughly with a mild nonabrasive cleaner and water. This removes any dirt or residue. Make sure the quartz is completely dry before moving to the next step.
Cover any areas you do not want to strip sealer from, like backsplashes or walls, with painters tape and plastic sheeting. This protects those surfaces from the chemical stripper.
2. Apply the Sealer Remover
Purchase a high-quality sealer remover made specifically for natural stone and quartz. Popular options include products like Goo Gone Seal Beach and Granite Gold Sealer and Finish Pre-Treatment.
Read and follow all the manufacturer’s instructions for safe handling and use. Transfer the remover to a spray bottle if needed for easier application.
Liberally spray or brush on the remover over all areas you want to strip sealer from. Avoid any fabrics, wood surfaces, metals etc that could be damaged by the chemicals.
Let the remover sit for 5-10 minutes. Do not let it dry completely.
3. Scrub and Wipe Away
Use a soft bristle scrub brush to gently scrub all treated areas. This helps break up and dissolve the sealer.
Wipe away the remover slurry using clean, dry microfiber cloths. Flip and change the cloths frequently to remove all the residue.
Depending on the condition of the original sealer, you may need to repeat steps 2 and 3 until all traces of the old sealer are gone.
4. Rinse and Dry
Thoroughly rinse the countertops with clean water to remove any leftover chemical residue.
Make sure to dry the surface completely with towels. Allow a few hours for it to dry fully before moving on.
5. Inspect and Reseal
Inspect the quartz countertops closely under good lighting. Check for any remaining sealer residue or dull looking spots. Repeat stripping if needed.
Once the quartz appears clean, bright, and uniform, apply a fresh sealant to protect the surface again.
Tips for Safe and Effective Sealer Removal
- Test the remover on a small inconspicuous spot first to check for any damage to the quartz.
- Never mix chemical strippers together. Only use one product at a time.
- Work in small manageable sections instead of coating the entire surface at once.
- Rinse immediately if the remover starts drying on the surface.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when handling chemical removers.
- Open windows and use fans to circulate fresh air during the process.
- Most strippers will not etch the quartz surface, but avoid letting it sit too long just to be safe.
- Apply a pH neutralizer after stripping if recommended by the remover manufacturer.
Common Questions About Removing Sealer from Quartz
How long does it take to remove quartz sealer?
It typically takes 1-3 hours to fully strip the sealer from an average sized countertop. Working in small sections allows for better control over the timing.
What is the best product to remove sealer from quartz?
Sealer manufacturers like Granite Gold and Aqua Mix make specific removers for stone and quartz. Avoid using acetone or very harsh chemicals that could damage the surface.
Can I use Windex or alcohol to remove quartz sealer?
No, do not attempt to remove sealer by just using household cleaners like Windex or rubbing alcohol. They will not be effective and may damage the finish.
Will removing the sealer harm my quartz countertops?
Using the proper chemical remover as directed will not etch or damage properly. Just take care not to leave the product on too long or use overly harsh solvents. Test first.
How often should I reseal quartz countertops?
Plan on resealing quartz every 1-2 years to maintain protection. Frequency depends on usage and wear. Reapply sooner if you notice water absorption or dullness in the finish.
Conclusion
Removing old sealer is essential to keeping quartz countertops looking their best. With the right stripping product and some patience, you can easily prep the surface for fresh sealant. Just be sure to use caution when handling chemical removers and properly prep and rinse the quartz. Regular resealing will provide ongoing protection.