Cambria quartz countertops are made from premium quartz and are known for their durability, beauty, and ease of maintenance. However, as with any countertop material, some care and precautions are needed to keep Cambria looking its best. Here is a helpful guide on how to properly treat and care for Cambria quartz countertops.
Cleaning Cambria Quartz Countertops
- Use a mild soap and warm water to clean Cambria quartz. Avoid abrasive cleaners as they can damage the surface. A mix of dish soap and warm water works well for most cleaning needs.
- For stubborn stains, use a non-abrasive cleaner specifically formulated for quartz, such as a Cambria-approved cleaner. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- While Cambria is resistant to most stains, refrain from leaving liquids sitting for prolonged periods. Blot up spills quickly to keep the surface pristine.
- Avoid using bleach, alkaline, or acidic cleaners as they can etch or discolor the quartz. Vinegar, in particular, should be kept away.
- Quartz is non-porous, so no sealing or polishing is needed to maintain the shine. Simply clean as needed to keep the surface gleaming.
- For a deep clean, use a cleaning pad specially designed for quartz along with the quartz cleaner. Apply some elbow grease for that sparkling finish.
Protecting Cambria from Damage
- Use cutting boards and hot pads when prepping food or placing hot pans on Cambria. Direct contact can potentially mar the surface.
- Don’t worry about scratching from utensils and glasses – quartz is extremely scratch resistant. However, avoid using knives directly on the surface.
- Check bottoms of cookware and appliances that will be placed on Cambria. Rough or worn bases can abrade the smooth quartz over time.
- Cambria’s sheen can become dulled from repeated friction in certain spots. Use trivets and pads under frequently moved items.
- While quartz is stain resistant, some materials like wine, oil, and dyes can cause discoloration if left for prolonged periods. Wipe up quickly.
- Though durable, quartz can chip if subjected to heavy impact. Handle Cambria gently, and don’t stand or sit on the countertops.
Caring for Cambria Edges and Seams
- Cambria’s polished edges highlight the stone’s natural beauty but require some prudent care. Avoid bumping, chipping or cracking the edges.
- Areas near edges and seams tend to collect dust and debris. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush dipped in quartz cleaner to gently clean crevices.
- Don’t allow spills to puddle near seams/edges. Blot thoroughly and dry to prevent moisture buildup causing stains.
- Cambria quartz is securely bonded, but uneven force on edges or seams can loosen the bond over time. Avoid sitting or leaning on edges.
- Use trivets and hot pads near edges/seams to prevent thermal shock from hot pans which can cause microscopic cracks.
- Thoughminor seams are unavoidable, improper installation can cause excessive gapping. Check that seams are tightly bonded with minimal gaps.
Maintaining Cambria’s Appearance Long-Term
- Cambria’s low-maintenance finish means minimal upkeep is needed. Regular cleaning keeps the surface looking like new.
- Avoid exposing Cambria to chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners etc. Rinse any accidental spills immediately.
- Periodic reapplication of quartz polish maintains the glossy sheen over years of use. Follow manufacturer’s directions for best results.
- While scratches are unlikely, medium grit sanding sponges can carefully remove minor superficial marks if needed.
- Check for signs of damage regularly – especially edges and high use areas. Address chips and cracks ASAP to prevent further harm.
- Cambria can be professionally resurfaced and repolished if extensive etching or pitting occurs. Contact a certified installer.
- Harsh cleaners, unaddressed stains, and lack of care can degrade Cambria’s finish prematurely. Consistent maintenance prevents major repairs.
6 FAQs about Caring for Cambria Quartz
How often should I clean Cambria countertops?
- For kitchen counters, daily cleaning is recommended. Just use a soft sponge or cloth with warm, soapy water to wipe away cooking messes.
Can you use vinegar to clean Cambria quartz?
- No, vinegar is too acidic and can dull or etch the surface over time. Mild dish soap and water is recommended for routine cleaning.
What is the best cleaner for Cambria quartz?
- Cambria recommends using their specially formulated quartz cleaner available on their website. Otherwise, any non-abrasive, quartz-safe cleaner will work well.
Does Cambria quartz need to be sealed?
- No, Cambria does not require sealing as it is non-porous. The tight structure of quartz makes Cambria naturally stain resistant.
Can you cut on Cambria quartz countertops?
- It’s best to avoid direct knife contact. Use a cutting board to protect Cambria from accidental nicks and cuts from utensils.
How do you get dried glue off Cambria quartz?
- Carefully scrape off excess glue with a plastic scraper. Then use a mix of warm water and dish soap on a soft cloth to remove residue. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Conclusion
With proper care and maintenance, Cambria quartz countertops will stay looking pristine and elegant for years. By following these tips on regular cleaning, protecting the surface from damage, maintaining edges and seams, and long-term care, you can ensure your Cambria countertops always look their best. Consistent, gentle care goes a long way in preserving Cambria’s renowned beauty and durability.