Quartzite combines timeless elegance with long-lasting durability, consequently, quartzite countertops are an amazing addition to any kitchen or bathroom. Although they are very resistant and durable, just like any other stone, they require a certain amount of care and affection so that they can maintain their beauty and pristine condition.
In this article, we will explore how to care for quartzite countertops, list the best tips and tricks, and what to do in cases of spills and stains. Following these simple steps will ensure that your new quartzite countertops will appear brand new for years to come, serving you and your house effectively.
Understanding quartzite
Understanding the ins and outs of quartzite as a natural stone is an important step in learning how to care for quartzite countertops. Quartzite is a stone that occurs naturally through a metamorphic process. In other words, sandstone goes through immense heat and pressure in the crust of the earth. Through this process, it becomes denser and harder.
Moreover, certain other minerals get mixed into sandstone during this process, adding unique colors and patterns to the stone. The resulting stone is quartzite as we know it today. Because of the metamorphic process, it is highly resistant to heat and pressure, making it one of the most durable natural stones.
Daily cleaning routine
Natural stones can seem harder to maintain. However, with a simple daily routine, you can keep your countertops looking clean and maintain their structural integrity.
Wiping down the countertops daily using a soft cloth or sponge will remove the dirt and debris that accumulates after cooking or doing dishes. You can use mild dish soap for daily cleaning as it will be enough to remove any spill. After wiping the countertops with soap, always rinse with a clean cloth saturated only with water. Moreover, drying thoroughly will prevent any water streaks or possible hard water build-up.
Following these steps and adhering to a daily cleaning routine is an essential part of learning how to care for quartzite countertops. Committing to cleaning your countertops daily might seem too much, however, these steps will only take a couple of minutes, yet they will save you a lot of time and effort time in the long run.
Preventing stains and scratches
While cooking and preparing food, always use a cutting board. Using a cutting board not only protects the countertops from the sharp edge of the knife but also prevents your knives from getting duller. While you might not immediately see scratches from the knife, they can cause problems over time.
Additionally, using trivets or hot pads is also important. Quartzite itself is highly heat resistant. However, the sealants used on the countertops might be negatively affected, such as discoloration.
Wiping spills as soon as they happen is an important aspect of how to care for quartzite countertops. This will help prevent the stains before they even have the chance to seep into the stone and cause any permanent damage.
If a stain occurs before you get a chance to wipe it, you can use a paste that is made up of baking soda and water. This is an especially handy solution for stains that are caused by organic substances, such as coffee or tea. Apply the paste to the stained area and leave it for a few hours. Then, check if the stain is removed, if the stain persists, you can leave the paste overnight.
For oil-based stains, you might need to utilize stronger cleaning solutions. You can try stain removers that are specially formulated for natural stones. These types of stain removers won’t be too harsh and they will be able to remove the stain without damaging the stone.
Sealing your quartzite countertops
Sealing the countertops is one of the most important steps of countertop maintenance. While quartzite is very durable and dense, it is not indestructible and needs protecting in the medium of a sealer. Sealing the countertops will protect them against factors such as dirt and debris, making them highly resistant to wear and tear.
Commonly, it is recommended to reseal the countertops once a year. However, the frequency of resealing will depend on your specific countertops. For example, countertops that are used daily will need resealing more often than ones that are used once every week. Additionally, the quality of the stone will also influence when and how often it will need resealing. High-quality countertops will have a denser and less porous structure. This means that they can withstand for longer periods.
An easy way to gauge when to reseal the countertops is to examine them closely and see if they still appear as shiny as when it saw first applied. If the countertops start to lose their shine and start to appear dull, it is a sign that they need resealing. Similarly, the stains and spills might not come off as easily, acting as an alarm.
Dos and Don’ts
One of the things that you need to pay the most attention to when it comes to how to care for quartzite countertops is not to use harsh or abrasive cleaning supplies. Using cleaning tools such as steel wool will scratch the sealer and might result in lessening its protective properties.
Additionally, avoid harsh cleaning solutions such as bleach as they might interact with the bond between the sealer and the stone. Moreover, these solutions can also cause structural changes to the quartzite, resulting in discoloration.
Regularly inspect the countertops so that you can catch signs of aging and damage early. Addressing these issues before they become big problems will help prolong the life of the countertops. Professionally treating these issues will ensure they cause long-lasting damage. Professionals will have the necessary tools and supplies to handle the job in an effective manner.
In short, caring for and maintaining quartzite countertops is an easy process that doesn’t require a lot of products or too much of your time. As long as you treat your countertops gently and pay attention to handling issues early, they will retain their pristine condition.
If you are interested in renovating your kitchen or bathroom with quartzite countertops, Keystone Marble and Granite is the right choice. Their amazing selection of quartzite slabs will bring elegance and functionality to your space. Their experienced installation team will handle the process, while the customer care team will help you through all of the steps such as picking the right colors and patterns for your design style.
Moreover, the involved customer care of Keystone does not end with installation. You can contact them with any questions you might have such as the right time for resealing, or how to care for quartzite countertops for longevity. Reach out today for a personalized consultation.
