Quartzite countertops are a stunning, practical, and versatile addition to kitchens and bathrooms. However, similar to all other natural stone surfaces like marble and granite, quartzite also requires some maintenance to protect its beauty.
Anyone interested in investing in quartzite countertops will arrive at one critical question, do quartzite countertops need to be sealed? The short answer to that question is yes, quartzite countertops require sealing. Sealing quartzite countertops is an essential step for maintaining its beauty and protecting it from dirt, debris, food particles, and spills.
Keep reading to find out the details about sealing quartzite, maintaining it after it is sealed, and how to properly clean it for lasting durability.
Do Quartzite Countertops Need to be Sealed?
Quartzite is a natural stone, It occurs naturally in the crust of the Earth through a process that takes millions of years. They are an incredibly durable and strong stone. Quartzite has a score of 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, meaning it is one of the hardest stones used in home improvement projects such as kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, vanity tops, islands, backsplashes, and more.
Although it is known for its hardness, it is not completely impervious to all damage. Quartzite is a porous stone, meaning it has tiny holes all over it in which food particles and spills can seep, thus causing stains or bacterial growth over time. In other words, to ensure a hygienic surface, quartzite countertops should be resealed periodically.
Why Seal Quartzite Countertops?
The sealant applied on the stone acts like an armor that will protect the countertop material against stains, and discoloration, and keep the stone looking pristine. If the quartzite countertops are left unsealed, everyday substances like coffee, tea, cooking oils or wine can cause stains. Moreover, sealing quartzite also minimizes the risk of potential scratches, protecting the stone against physical damage too.
Furthermore, resealing quartzite countertops replenished their gorgeous shine, allowing the beauty of the stone to shine. With a high gloss stone sealer, the colors and patterns of the stone will be highlighted beautifully.
How Often Is Quartzite Sealer Needed?
How often the sealer should be applied depends on how often the countertops are used. For example, someone who uses the countertops to cook once a week and someone who cooks multiple times a day won’t need to reseal at the same time, because the former countertops aren’t getting as much use.
Most professionals recommend resealing the countertops every one or two years. If you use your countertops every day, resealing them once a year will ensure their protection and longevity. Moreover, environmental factors also play a role. More frequent resealing might be necessary in humid environments.
Identifying If the Quartzite Needs Sealing
If you are unsure whether your countertops need to be resealed, a quick test will give you the answer. Drip a few drops of water on the surface of the quartzite countertops, if the stone darkens or absorbs the stone within a few minutes then sealing is necessary. This means that the previous sealant has worn off and spills can seep into the stone.
Another signifier is the shine of the stone. If the countertops are starting to look dull, that might mean that the sealant needs replenishing to offer full protection to the stone.
How to Properly Seal Quartzite
Sealing quartzite countertops is a straightforward process that won’t take too much of our time. However, it does require care and attention for a smooth and even application.
The first and foremost step of resealing is to clean the quartzite countertops. You can clean the surface using a natural stone cleaner or you can use a mild dish soap mixed with water. Afterward, dry the countertops completely using a soft cloth.
Then apply a high-quality stone sealer evenly on the countertops. You can work in sections to ensure consistent application. Let the sealer sit for the recommended amount on the packaging, usually 15-20 minutes. After the recommended time has passed, remove the excess which will help avoid any streaks or leftover residue.
Before using the countertops allow the sealer to cure for 24 hours. Read the instructions carefully and if the manufacturer advises the curing should take longer, don’t use the countertops for that duration.
While sealing the countertops isn’t a hard process, it does take some getting used to. Working in small sections will help you apply the sealer as evenly as possible. Make sure to have consistent pressure throughout and don’t rush the process.
Maintaining Quartzite After Sealing
Properly maintaining quartzite is a key factor in ensuring the countertops remain in pristine condition. Paying attention to the countertops and maintaining them according to their needs will help lengthen their lifetime.
For the best results, you can use a pH-neutral stone cleaner. This won’t damage the sealant even after rıutine use. Moreover, wipe up spills as soon as they happen to prevent any potential staining substance from damaging the sealant and seeping into the stone.
Another step to take is to inspect the surface of the countertops regularly. By doing this, you will notice any damage or the areas where the sealant has worn off and you will be able to take the necessary steps before the issue becomes bigger.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even after sealing, there are some steps that should be taken to ensure the longevity of the stone. Being aware of common mistakes will help you avoid them.
One of the most common mistakes quartzite countertop owners make is not properly cleaning the surface before applying the sealant. If there is any dirt or grime left on the countertops at the time of sealing, they will be stuck under the sealant and they will be impossible to clean afterward.
Another thing to keep in mind is avoiding overly harsh cleaners or products for quartzite countertops. Instead, you can use sealants and cleaners that are specifically designed for natural stones as they will perform their duty without damaging the stone.
The last common mistake is over-sealing the countertops. Over-sealing the countertops can result in a cloudy-looking appearance or it can lead to a sticky residue. Oversealing not only affects the appearance of the countertops but also can make the surface harder to clean. To avoid this follow the instructions of the manufacturer.
So, do quartzite countertops need to be sealed? The answer is a resounding yes. Not only do quartzite countertops need to be sealed but they also need to be resealed periodically to ensure they are getting the maximum protection for their longevity. Sealing the countertops will enhance the natural beauty of the stone and highlight their gorgeous patterns. By treating your countertops with care, you will be investing in a surface that will last you for a lifetime.
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