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April 29, 2022Many homeowners are choosing quartz countertops for their kitchens and bathrooms. Quartz is a popular choice because it is durable, low-maintenance, and stylish. But one question that many people have is whether or not they need to seal quartz countertops. In this blog post, we will take a look at whether or not sealing quartz countertops is necessary.
What Does Sealing Do?
Sealing a countertop does two main things: it makes the countertop more resistant to staining, and it protects the surface from scratches. This is especially important for countertops that will see a lot of use, like in the kitchen. Sealing also makes it easier to clean up spills, because the sealant creates a barrier between the spill and the countertop.
Do Quartz Countertops Need to Be Sealed?
The short answer is: no. Unlike granite countertops and other natural stone countertops, quartz is a non-porous material and does not need to be sealed. Quartz is stain-resistant and scratch-resistant, so sealing is not necessary for protection. Due to its lack of porosity, quartz won’t allow any sealant to penetrate its surface, and it already has a built-in barrier against staining and scratching.
Why Isn’t It Necessary To Seal Quartz Kitchen Countertops?
As mentioned above, quartz is a non-porous material, so it won’t absorb any spills or stains. Natural stones like granite or marble have pores, in which liquid can seep in and leave a stain. But because quartz doesn’t have any pores, the liquid will sit on the surface and can be easily wiped away. Apart from that, there are a couple of other reasons why quartz doesn’t need to be sealed:
Quartz is Durable
One of the main reasons people choose quartz countertops is because they are incredibly durable. They can withstand high temperatures and will not crack or chip easily. During the fabrication process, more than 90% of natural quartz is combined with polymer resins and pigments, making it one of the hardest countertop materials available.
Quartz is Low-Maintenance
Another reason quartz countertops are so popular is that they are low-maintenance. Unlike granite and marble, which need to be sealed and polished regularly, quartz only needs to be wiped down with a damp cloth. You don’t have to worry about special cleaners or treatments – just a little soap and water are all you need.
Quartz Countertop Form a Natural Seal
Towards the end of the fabrication of a quartz countertop, a resin is applied to the surface. This creates a natural seal that protects the countertop from spills, stains, and scratches.
Ways To Keep Quartz Countertops Protected Without Sealing
Despite the fact that sealing isn’t necessary, there are still some ways you can do to protect your quartz countertops. Here are a couple of tips:
Wipe up Spills Immediately
Even though quartz is resistant to staining, it’s always best to wipe up spills as soon as they happen. This will prevent any liquid from sitting on the surface for too long and will make cleanup much easier.
Avoid Using Chemicals
Quartz is a strong material, but it can still be damaged by harsh chemicals. Avoid using any cleaners that contain bleach or ammonia. If you need to use a stronger cleaner, make sure you rinse the surface well afterward and dry it with a soft cloth.
Use a Cutting Board
Even though quartz is scratch-resistant, it’s still a good idea to use a cutting board when you’re cooking. This will prevent any knives from scratching the surface of the countertop.
Use Hot Pads or Trivets
When you’re cooking with hot pans, always use hot pads or trivets to protect the countertop. The same thing goes for coasters and placemats that you use under cups and plates. These will prevent the countertop from getting too hot and will help it stay in good condition.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are many reasons why quartz counters don’t need to be sealed. But even though it’s not necessary, there are still some things you can do to protect your countertops and keep them looking like new. So if you’re thinking about getting quartz for your kitchen or bathroom, don’t worry – you won’t have to seal it! Just follow the tips above and enjoy your beautiful, low-maintenance countertop.