Honed quartz countertops have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their smooth, matte finish. Unlike polished quartz, which has a glossy look, honed quartz has a soft, subtle appearance that fits well with many design aesthetics. However, the porous surface of honed quartz requires proper sealing to prevent stains and damage over time. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to properly seal honed quartz countertops.
Clean and Prepare the Surface
The first step is to thoroughly clean and prepare the quartz countertop before applying any sealant. Make sure the surface is free of dust, oil, grease, or any other residues that could prevent the sealer from properly bonding.
Use a non-abrasive household cleaner or degreaser to remove any dirt or grime. Rinse well with clean water and let the surface dry completely. Going over it with isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) can help eliminate any traces of residue. Proper cleaning and drying are vital for the sealer to adhere correctly.
Select an Appropriate Sealer
When choosing a sealer for honed quartz, it’s important to pick a product specifically designed for porous, honed stones. Standard granite or marble sealers may not provide adequate protection. Here are some good options:
- Stone-specific impregnating sealers – These penetrating sealers are formulated to bond with the pores in natural stone. Top brands like Miracle Sealants 511 Impregnator or Dry Treat Premium Impregnator work well.
- Fluoropolymer sealers – These form a protective barrier on top of the quartz. Giani Countertop Paint Kit is a good fluoropolymer option ideal for a honed quartz finish.
- Epoxy resin sealers – Resistant to scratches and heat damage. A quality epoxy like the Stone Coat Countertop Epoxy Sealer can provide extra protection.
Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations and test the sealer on a small, inconspicuous area first before applying it to the entire countertop.
Apply Sealer Properly
With the right sealer in hand, it’s time to apply it carefully according to the product specifications:
- Prepare the area with proper ventilation and cover any surfaces not being sealed.
- Apply the sealer evenly using a clean, lint-free cloth or foam applicator. Prevent excess pooling.
- Allow sealer to soak in and cure fully before use, usually 24-72 hours. Fluoropolymer coatings require sanding between coats.
- Multiple thin coats often lead to better performance than one thick application.
- Penetrating sealers usually require reapplication once or twice per year. Epoxy coatings may last 3-5 years.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for exact application and curing times. Uneven or too thick application can lead to a tacky surface or clouding effect. Proper application is key.
Honed Quartz Countertop Sealing Tips
Follow these tips for best results when sealing your honed quartz:
- Making sure the surface is thoroughly clean before sealing is extremely important. Any debris left on the countertop will affect performance.
- Avoid applying sealer in direct sunlight or extreme heat. Ideal application temperature range is 50-80°F.
- Use a circular, overlapping motion when applying the sealer to distribute it evenly.
- Thoroughly mix or stir two-part epoxy sealers before applying. Catalyzation is required.
- A properly sealed honed quartz countertop should repel water, oil, and dirt without darkening or changing the natural look of the stone.
- Reseal when water starts to soak in or darken the surface instead of beading up. Typically once or twice per year.
- Use trivets, cutting boards, and coasters to protect the sealed surface from excessive heat or abrasions.
Maintaining and Resealing
While honed quartz countertops are low maintenance compared to other surfaces, proper care is still required:
- Use mild soap and water for regular cleaning. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Disinfect with diluted bleach or ammonia-free cleaners if needed.
- Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and wipe away excess moisture to prevent buildup.
- Reapply sealer approximately every 6-12 months for optimal protection.
- Harsh chemicals like paint removers or oven cleaners should be avoided entirely.
- Inspect countertops periodically for signs of wear, damage, or darkening. Reseal affected areas immediately.
With the proper sealing products and techniques, honed quartz countertops can stay looking pristine for many years before needing resealing. Always follow the manufacturer’s care and maintenance recommendations. Proper sealing and care will ensure your honed quartz countertops retain their beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does sealer last on honed quartz?
On average, a quality impregnating sealer will last 6-12 months before needing reapplication. Epoxy resin coatings can last upwards of 3-5 years if properly maintained.
What happens if you don’t seal honed quartz?
Unsealed honed quartz will be prone to staining, etching, and absorbing bacteria over time. Sealing is highly recommended for protection and ease of maintenance.
Is honed quartz sealer toxic?
Most sealers like impregnators and fluoropolymers have low VOC contents and non-toxic formulas once cured. Some two-part epoxy resin kits contain toxic components before curing so proper safety precautions should be taken.
Can you use wax to seal honed quartz?
Wax is not an effective sealer for honed quartz surfaces. It provides minimal sealing properties and can build up over time. Impregnating sealers or resin are better options.
How can you tell if honed quartz sealer is worn off?
If water soaks into the surface rather than beading up, or oil/dirt become harder to clean, it likely means the sealer needs to be reapplied. Visible darkening is another sign of worn sealer.
Conclusion
Sealing is an essential step in protecting the beauty and durability of honed quartz countertops. With the right sealing products, proper application, routine maintenance, and occasional resealing, a honed quartz surface can stay looking like new for many years. Following this comprehensive guide will help ensure your honed quartz counters always look their best while withstanding heavy use. Be sure to refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions as well and enjoy your stunning, easy-to-maintain honed quartz countertops.