Do Quartz Countertops Need to Be Sealed?

Quartz countertops are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their beautiful appearance and durability. We recently installed quartz in our home bar, and afterward, we were worried about spills and messes. The biggest question we had, is whether quartz countertops need to be sealed?

Luckily with some research, we learned that no, quartz countertops don’t need to be sealed since they are a non-porous material. But let’s explain a bit more to understand why this is. Plus, we’ll cover exactly how to care for your quartz to avoid damage.

What are Quartz countertops?

If you’re looking for a durable, stylish, and affordable countertop material, Quartz might be the perfect option for you. Quartz countertops are made from a man-made composite of crushed quartz stone and resin.

This makes them non-porous and resistant to stains, scratches, and heat, making them an ideal choice for busy kitchens.

Quartz countertops also come in a wide range of colors and styles, so you’re sure to find an option that fits your taste.

Plus, because they’re man-made, Quartz countertops are consistent in color and pattern, so you won’t have to worry about inconsistencies like you would with natural stone. If you’re looking for a beautiful and low-maintenance countertop option, Quartz is definitely worth considering.

Quartz vs. Granite and Marble

Quartz is a tough and durable material that is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It is also low maintenance and easy to clean. In terms of looks, quartz countertops can mimic the appearance of granite or marble, but they are usually more consistent in color and pattern.

In comparison, Granite countertops require more upkeep than quartz. Since granite is porous, so it must be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining.

Marble countertops are less popular than quartz or granite because they are softer and more prone to scratches and stains. However, marble is a unique material with a classic look that many homeowners appreciate. Ultimately, the best type of countertop for your home depends on your personal preferences and needs.

Do Quartz Countertops Need to Be Sealed?

Unlike more porous materials like granite or marble, quartz is non-porous and does not require sealing. In fact, many manufacturers recommend against sealing quartz because it can actually interfere with the material’s non-porous properties.

Sealing quartz can also make it more difficult to clean because liquids will no longer bead up on the surface. For these reasons, it is generally best to leave quartz not sealed.

Could You Seal Quartz?

Since Quartz is a non-porous material, it wouldn’t absorb the sealer. If you tried to seal your quartz, you would just be left with a layer of liquid sitting on your countertops.

Will You Need to Reseal Quartz in the Future?

No, since quartz is non-porous, it will not absorb liquids and does not need to be sealed or resealed.

In most cases, you can just clean your quartz countertops with soap and water as needed and enjoy their beautiful, low-maintenance surface for many years to come.

How to Protect Quartz Countertops?

Though quartz is one of the strongest materials available, it is still possible to damage your quartz countertop if you’re not careful. Here are a few tips to help you keep your quartz countertop looking like new:

Use a Cutting Board

To avoid scratches, always use a cutting board when preparing food. If a sharp object does scratch the surface of your quartz countertop, you can usually remove the scratch with a little elbow grease and a scouring pad.

Wipe up Spills Immediately

To avoid stains, wipe up spills immediately with a damp cloth. For tougher stains, you may need to use a mild abrasive cleaner. However, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using any cleaners on your quartz countertop, as some cleaners can damage the surface.

Use a Trivet or Hot Pad

To protect your quartz countertop from heat damage, always use a hot pad or trivet when placing hot dishes on the surface. Though quartz is heat-resistant, repeated exposure to high temperatures can cause cracking and other damage.

Most manufacturers don’t recommend anything above 300 degrees Fahrenheit touching quartz countertops without a trivet.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your quartz countertop looking like new for years to come.

What to Use to Clean Quartz?

The best way to clean your quartz countertops will depend on the type and amount of mess that you need to remove. For most everyday cleaning, a damp cloth or a mild soap and water solution should be sufficient.

However, for tougher stains like wine or oil spills, you may need to use a more powerful cleaner. In general, it is best to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the surface of your quartz countertops.

We’d recommend a specific Quartz cleaner like Weiman Liquid Quartz Cleaner. We use this on bigger messes and spills and have never had any issues.

Bottom Line

As you can see, quartz countertops are a great investment for your home. They are beautiful and durable, and with most importantly, they don’t need to be sealed. Because of their non-porous texture, they will last for many years to come. Just be sure to care for your countertops following the tips outlined here.