Repolishing quartz countertops can help restore their beauty and shine over time. Quartz is an engineered stone made from natural quartz crystals and resin that creates an attractive, durable countertop. However, quartz can lose its luster from daily wear and tear. Following some simple steps, you can repolish your quartz and make it look brand new again.
Supplies Needed
Repolishing quartz requires just a few supplies:
- Quartz polishing cream – Use a high-quality cream specifically designed for polishing engineered stone. Avoid polishes that contain abrasives.
- Soft polishing pad – Choose a buffing pad made from microfiber or foam. Avoid pads with a rough texture.
- Clean cloths – Have some clean, soft cloths on hand to apply the polish and buff. Old t-shirts or microfiber cloths work well.
- Masking tape – Use tape to mask off edges and any seams in the countertop. This keeps polish off adjoining surfaces.
- Rubbing alcohol – This will remove any waxes or residue before polishing.
Cleaning Before Polishing
Before polishing, start by deep cleaning the quartz:
- Remove everything from the countertop. Clear off any appliances, dishes, etc.
- Use a degreasing cleaner to remove any oily residue. Let it soak for 5-10 minutes before wiping clean.
- Mix a solution of warm water and a few drops of dish soap. Wipe down the entire surface with a soft cloth.
- Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth.
- Wipe the surface with rubbing alcohol to remove any remaining wax or residue. Let the alcohol evaporate completely before polishing.
Repolishing the Surface
Follow these steps to repolish your quartz countertops:
1. Tape Off Edges and Seams
Use masking tape to cover any edges, seams, or hard-to-reach areas on the countertop. This prevents the polish from staining adjoining surfaces. Press the tape down firmly.
2. Apply Polishing Cream
Put a dime-sized amount of quartz polish on your buffing pad. Spread it evenly across the surface using circular motions. Add more polish as needed to keep the pad wet.
3. Polish in Small Sections
Work in small sections about 2 square feet at a time. Apply even pressure as you polish in wide circular motions. Overlap strokes to ensure full coverage.
4. Buff to a Shine
As you see the polish drying, increase pressure on the buffing pad. High-pressure buffing brings out the full shine.
5. Remove Residue and Tape
Wipe away any excess polish with a clean, dry cloth. Make sure to get crevices and edges. Remove the masking tape.
6. Seal and Protect
Apply a quartz sealer to protect the finish. Choose a no-sheen sealer so it doesn’t affect the polish. Let it dry completely.
Troubleshooting Issues
Here are some common issues and fixes for quartz polishing:
Cloudy appearance – Buff longer with more pressure. The polish may need more time to fully clear.
Streaks or swirl marks – Reapply polish and buff out marks using a clean pad and long, even strokes.
Dull spots – Use more polish and concentrate buffing on problem areas. This evens out the sheen.
Water marks – These etched marks require a quartz restoration kit to resurface the damaged area.
Maintaining the Finish
To make your polish job last, follow these care tips:
- Use coasters under drinking glasses and wipe up spills quickly. Prolonged moisture can dull the surface.
- Don’t cut directly on quartz. Always use a cutting board.
- Clean with a quartz-safe cleaner, not abrasive cleansers.
- Reapply sealer every 6 months. This protects the finish between polish jobs.
- Avoid using waxes or polishes not formulated for engineered stone.
With proper care and occasional repolishing, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years. Consistent maintenance is the key to maintaining their beauty. Follow these polishing steps whenever your quartz loses its luster.
Frequently Asked Questions About Repolishing Quartz
How often should I polish my quartz countertop?
Most quartz countertops need polishing every 1-2 years with proper care. High-traffic areas may need it more frequently. Inspect regularly for signs of dullness to determine when itâ€TMs time.
Can I use a polish that contains abrasives?
No, abrasives will permanently damage the surface and scratches will appear over time. Use only a polish specifically formulated for engineered stone.
Is it safe to polish quartz yourself?
Yes, with the right supplies itâ€TMs perfectly safe for DIY polishing. Just follow the techniques for applying and removing the polish.
How long does a quartz polish job last?
With proper maintenance between polishing, the finish can last 1-2 years or more. Using coasters and cleaning spills quickly helps prolong the polish.
What’s the difference between polishing and sealing quartz?
Polishing removes dullness from the surface, while sealing provides an invisible barrier against moisture and stains. Do both for best results.
Conclusion
With a little time and effort, you can restore the original beauty of your quartz countertops. By starting with deep cleaning and using products specifically formulated for engineered stone, you can achieve professional-looking results. Be sure to properly prep the surface, work in small sections, and buff thoroughly. Avoid abrasives that may scratch the quartz. Follow up with regular sealing and care to maintain the polished finish. DIY repolishing lets you make your quartz counters look brand new again.