Quartz countertops are an extremely popular choice for kitchen and bathroom renovations due to their beauty, durability, and easy maintenance. However, some homeowners wonder if they need to apply a sealant to quartz counters to protect them. Here is a detailed look at whether quartz countertops need to be sealed.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz provides strength and durability, while the resins bind the material together.
The resulting slabs are non-porous, making quartz more stain and scratch resistant than many natural stone counter options. Quartz counters are available in a wide range of colors and patterns to suit any décor.
The Benefits of Quartz Countertops
There are many reasons quartz has become such a highly sought-after countertop material:
- Extremely durable and scratch resistant
- Stain resistant
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Resists heat and scorching
- Available in unlimited colors and patterns
- Non-porous so does not require sealing
- More affordable than natural stone
- Low maintenance
These benefits make quartz an excellent choice for busy kitchens and bathrooms. The material’s resilience means it can stand up to heavy use without losing its appearance.
Does Quartz Need To Be Sealed?
The short answer is no. Quartz countertops differ from many natural stone options in that they do not require sealing.
The resin used in the manufacture of quartz makes it non-porous. Liquids cannot penetrate the surface, so quartz does not absorb stains. The material repels water, oil, juice and other potential staining substances.
Homeowners do not need to apply a sealant to create a moisture or stain barrier on quartz counters. In fact, sealing quartz is not recommended and can even damage some quartz surfaces.
Why You Should Not Seal Quartz
There are a few important reasons sealing is not necessary or advised for quartz countertops:
1. Quartz is Non-Porous
Applying a sealant cannot improve upon the non-porous nature of quartz. The resin makes the material impervious to stains already. Sealing an already stain-proof surface is redundant.
2. Sealants May Discolor Some Quartz
Certain quartz slabs incorporate polymers in their resin that can react with sealants. The sealant may leach into the surface and cause yellowish discoloration. Always check with your quartz manufacturer before applying any sealant.
3. Trapping Moisture Can Cause Damage
Sealing quartz can lead to moisture becoming trapped beneath the surface. This can lead to warping, discoloration, and mold growth.
4. Sealants Often Require Reapplication
Even appropriate sealants for natural stone likely need reapplied every 1-2 years. This maintenance is unnecessary for quartz since it is inherently non-porous.
5. Warranties May Become Void
Most quartz warranties state that applying a sealant voids the warranty. Sealing can alter the properties of quartz and lead to damage from improper maintenance.
With no benefits and potential drawbacks, sealing quartz is clearly not recommended. Always verify with your manufacturer, but most advise against ever sealing quartz counters.
Caring for Quartz Countertops
Although sealing is not required, homeowners should take steps to properly care for quartz. Simple maintenance keeps quartz counters looking like new for decades.
Regular Cleaning
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining
- Use mild soap and water for routine cleaning
- Disinfect with diluted bleach or vinegar as needed
- Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads
Preventing Damage
- Use cutting boards instead of cutting directly on quartz
- Install trivets and hot pads to prevent scorching
- Don’t place extremely hot pans or dishes directly on quartz
- Keep quartz clear of harsh chemicals like paint removers
Professional Deep Cleaning
- Periodically have quartz counters deep cleaned by a professional
- Removes built up dirt and restores luster
- Typical recommendation is every 1-2 years
By providing routine care and avoiding damage, quartz countertops will retain their like-new beauty and require minimal maintenance. Homeowners can enjoy durable, worry-free quartz surfaces for decades.
FAQs About Sealing Quartz Countertops
Should I seal my quartz countertop after installing it?
No, do not seal a new quartz counter. Quartz does not require sealing due to its non-porous quality. Sealants can actually damage some quartz surfaces.
Do I ever need to seal my quartz counters?
You should never need to seal properly installed quartz countertops. Quartz is impervious to stains without a sealant. Sealing is not beneficial and can often cause problems.
I installed quartz counters 6 months ago, should I seal them now?
There is no reason to seal quartz counters even after they have been installed for years. Quartz maintains its stain resistance over time without sealing. Check your manufacturer’s care guidelines to confirm.
Can sealing quartz help make it more stain proof?
No, sealants cannot improve the stain resistance of quartz. Quartz is non-porous, so liquids cannot penetrate the surface with or without a sealant. Save your money and skip the sealant.
Is there any reason I would want to seal my quartz counters?
Sealing quartz provides no added benefits, and has several potential drawbacks, including voiding warranties. Stick to the manufacturer’s care recommendations which likely advise against sealing.
I prefer the glossy wet look. Will sealing make my quartz counters shinier?
Sealants add no additional shine or gloss to quartz. The resin creates the surface luster which sealing cannot improve. Use polishing waxes/compounds instead for added shine.
How To Determine If You Have Quartz Countertops
Not sure if your counters are quartz or another material like granite? Here are some ways to tell:
- Check for visible seams – Quartz slabs are made in molds then pieced together. Visible seams indicate engineered quartz.
- Tap the surface – Quartz has a harder feel compared to natural stone like granite. Quartz will have a more “plastic” sound.
- Look for consistency – Natural stones have variation. Consistent speckles mean engineered quartz.
- See if it’s cool to the touch – Quartz does not retain heat like natural stone which stays warmer.
- Check for scratches – Quartz is highly scratch resistant. Look for absence of marks.
- Review your paperwork – Installation paperwork should note if quartz or another material was installed.
- Contact your contractor – The company that installed your counters can verify if they are indeed quartz.
If still uncertain, consider having a stone restoration company assess the material. This will determine if it is quartz, granite, marble, or another stone.
The Takeaway – Skip The Sealant on Quartz
Quartz countertops offer beauty, durability, and easy care – without the need for routine sealing required by many other stone options. In fact, sealing quartz is strongly discouraged and can lead to damage.
By simply keeping quartz clean and preventing scratches, burns, and stains, homeowners can enjoy flawless countertops for decades. Schedule professional deep cleaning every few years to keep quartz in tip-top shape.
Focus on regular maintenance like wiping spills and using trivets. Avoid exposing quartz to harsh chemicals. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations for care is key. With proper care, quartz provides unparalleled performance without pointless sealing!