How to Care for Your Quartzite Countertop

Frederick M Hueston StoneForensics.com

Quartzite is a natural stone that offers beauty, durability, and low maintenance for your kitchen or bathroom. Quartzite is formed when quartz-rich sandstone is exposed to high heat and pressure, creating a hard and dense surface that can resist scratches, stains, and heat. Quartzite countertops come in a variety of colors and patterns, some of which resemble marble or granite. However, quartzite is not indestructible, and it requires some care and attention to keep it looking its best. Here are some tips on how to care for your quartzite countertop.

Cleaning Quartzite Countertops

The most important step in caring for your quartzite countertop is to keep it clean. Quartzite is naturally porous, which means it can absorb liquids and stains if not properly sealed. To prevent this, you should wipe your countertop regularly with a mild soap and warm water, using a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or acidic solutions that can damage the quartzite or the sealant. You can also use a special product designed for stone surfaces, such as Shine Eez, that can clean and polish your countertop at the same time.

To clean your quartzite countertop, follow these steps:

Add a few drops of mild dish soap to warm water. You don’t need a lot of soap, just enough to make the water sudsy.

Wet a clean cloth or sponge with the soapy water and wring out the excess.

Wipe the countertop gently, making sure to cover the entire surface.

Rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and wipe the countertop again to remove any soap residue.

Dry the countertop with a soft towel or paper towel to prevent water spots.

Removing Stains from Quartzite Countertops

Even with regular cleaning and sealing, your quartzite countertop may still get stained by some substances, such as coffee, wine, food coloring, or oil. If this happens, you should act quickly and try to remove the stain as soon as possible. You can use a poultice, which is a paste made of baking soda and water, to absorb the stain from the quartzite. Here is how to make and apply a poultice:

Mix equal parts of baking soda and water in a small bowl, until you get a thick paste.

Apply the paste over the stain, covering it completely. You can use a spatula or a plastic knife to spread the paste evenly.

Let the paste dry completely, which may take several hours or overnight. The paste will draw out the stain from the quartzite as it dries.

Remove the paste with a plastic scraper or a damp cloth. Be careful not to scratch the quartzite surface.

Wipe the area with a clean cloth and warm water to remove any residue.

Repeat the process if necessary, until the stain is gone.

Sealing Quartzite Countertops

Another key step in caring for your quartzite countertop is to seal it periodically. Sealing your countertop will create a protective layer that will prevent liquids and stains from penetrating the quartzite. Depending on the type and quality of the sealant, you may need to reseal your countertop every few months or every few years. You can check the effectiveness of the sealant by performing a simple water test: sprinkle some water on the countertop and see if it beads up or sinks in. If the water sinks in, it means the sealant is wearing off and you need to reapply it.

To seal your quartzite countertop, follow these steps:

Make sure the countertop is clean and dry. You can use the cleaning method described above, or follow the instructions of the sealant manufacturer.

Choose a sealant that is suitable for quartzite and natural stone. You can find different types of sealants, such as spray-on, wipe-on, or brush-on, at your local hardware store or online. Read the label carefully and follow the directions for application and safety.

Apply the sealant evenly over the countertop, using a cloth, a sponge, a brush, or a spray bottle, depending on the type of sealant. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including the edges and corners.

Let the sealant sit for the recommended time, usually 10 to 15 minutes, or until it starts to dry.

Wipe off the excess sealant with a clean cloth, using circular motions. Do not leave any residue or streaks on the countertop.

Let the sealant cure for the recommended time, usually 24 to 48 hours, before using the countertop. Avoid placing any objects or liquids on the countertop during this time.

Tips to Keep Quartzite Countertops Looking Great

Besides cleaning, removing stains, and sealing your quartzite countertop, there are some other simple habits that you can adopt to keep your countertop looking great for a long time. Here are some tips to follow:

Wipe up any spills or stains promptly, especially acidic ones, such as lemon juice, vinegar, or wine, or ones that contain food coloring, such as turmeric or food dyes. These substances can etch or discolor the quartzite surface if left for too long.

Use cutting boards, trivets, and cooling racks when working with sharp objects or hot pans on the countertop. Quartzite is very hard and resistant to heat, but it can still get scratched or damaged by extreme temperatures or pressure.

Avoid placing heavy or sharp objects on the countertop, such as pots, pans, knives, or cans. These can cause chips, cracks, or dents on the quartzite surface.

Avoid dragging or sliding objects across the countertop, such as dishes, utensils, or appliances. These can cause scratches or scuffs on the quartzite surface.

Avoid exposing the countertop to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, such as near a window or a skylight. This can cause fading or discoloration of the quartzite color or pattern.

Quartzite is a beautiful and durable choice for your countertop, but it also requires some care and maintenance to keep it in top condition. By following these tips, you can enjoy your quartzite countertop for many years to come.