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While quartz is typically regarded as a long-lasting, easy-to-clean stone, we are still lead to wonder do quartz countertops need to be sealed?
Quartz is one of the most popular stones to use for countertops – and for a good reason. This stone is beautiful, offering an elevated finish to any kitchen and low maintenance and durable for a bustling space.
While quartz is typically regarded as a long-lasting, easy-to-clean stone, we are still lead to wonder do quartz countertops need to be sealed? Our experts at Pro Stone Countertops are here to explain the ins and outs of quartz countertops to answer the question of should you seal quartz countertops.
Does Quartz Need to Be Sealed?
This may be surprising to some homeowners, but on the question: does quartz needs to be sealed? The simple answer is no.
One of the big benefits of quartz is that it is non-porous. This means that liquids won’t penetrate the surface, which is typically what causes unwanted stains and damage on stone countertops. Some other types of stones, however, are quite porous.
Since the surface is non-porous, it doesn’t need to be sealed, as you can easily wipe away any messes with a damp cloth, without worries about stains sinking in. However, you should still avoid using any harsh solutions, like acidic cleaners, on quartz that can leave your counters looking dull.
Why You Don’t Have to Seal Quartz Countertops
While countertops like granite and marble require sealing, there’s no need to reseal quartz countertops. Quartz is a stone-like these other materials, but a quartz countertop offers a non-porous finish. Here’s why:
- When being made into countertops, quartz becomes a construction material that’s mixed with coloring substances, silicon dioxide, and bonding resins
- For the fabrication process, the countertops do stay 90% quartz, but the remaining 10% that make up a slab are not as porous as quartz in its natural state
- As quartz slabs are fabricated and finished, they form a natural seal
- Due to this process, quartz doesn’t require the same sealing maintenance as other countertops
But how often does quartz need to be sealed? While granite and marble may require a yearly re-sealing, quartz won’t need to go through this process. However, this doesn’t mean your quartz countertops are indestructible. Still treat them with care and regular cleaning to avoid damage.
Not Sealing Quartz Countertops: Pros and Cons
While quartz countertops don’t have to be sealed, there are a few downsides to skipping this step. The list isn’t long, but it’s essential to consider the possible pros and cons.
Pros of Not Sealing Quartz Countertops
The list of benefits of not sealing kitchen quartz countertops is lengthy, so we are narrowing it down to a few of our top considerations.
1. Hard to absorb
Since a quartz stone is non-porous, it doesn’t absorb a sealant as easily, either. This means finding the right sealant is more challenging than that of a marble or granite stone, and if not done correctly, it can leave a sticky feeling or a film on top that won’t do its job.
2. No delay to use
If you don’t seal a quartz countertop, that means it’s ready to use right away! Since the fabrication process will have already left the stone strong, you can use it once it’s placed in your space without worrying about allowing the sealant to dry.
3. Easier to clean
Even without a sealant, quartz countertops are easy to clean. All you need is a mild soap and water to clean this surface – just avoid the harsh chemicals and you’re good to go.
For many, going through the seal and reseal quartz countertops process is just an added, unnecessary step. Quartz countertops are already durable and non-porous, so opting to seal them isn’t a requirement.
Cons of Not Sealing Quartz Countertops
So, why do you seal quartz countertops? There are some benefits to going through the sealing process, although it’s not totally necessary. However, sealing quartz is up to you and your needs. Here’s why it may be beneficial to seal your new surface.
1. It’s not indestructible
While quartz is incredibly durable, it’s not totally damage-proof. Even when combined with resin and bonding materials, you can notice some damage on this surface. These imperfections can be caused by:
- Spills that are left to sit, actually allowing them enough time to absorb into the surface to leave a stain
- Using harsh chemicals on the countertops, including acidic solutions like bleach
- Setting hot pans down directly on the countertop
- Cutting food with a sharp knife on the countertop without a cutting board
If you choose to not seal countertops, all of these potentially harmful activities should be avoided to keep the countertop strong. However, a sealant can work to further protect your surface from this damage.
2. Price
Quartz is man-made and is often more expensive than other countertop materials that offer a more natural material. So, what does this have to do with the debate of should you seal quartz? Quartz countertops will be expensive to replace in the case of damage, so opting for a sealant that can help avoid any irreparable harm can save money in the long run.
3. Stress
If you’re one to worry about the potential for damage, sealing your countertops can provide the peace of mind you need to enjoy your new surface, without the daily stress of if you’re harming them. In a particularly busy kitchen, or one where kids are running around, opting for the added protection of a sealant is best.
What Happens If I End Up Sealing My Quartz Countertop
If you do decide to seal and reseal quartz countertops, the sealant may sit on the top of your countertops, leaving more of a film as it cannot fully absorb into the countertops. Remember – this is a non-porous surface, so sealing is a challenge and not entirely necessary. Yet it won’t ruin your countertops and can provide some added protection your kitchen may need.
Still debating whether sealing kitchen quartz countertops is necessary for you? At the end of the day, it’s up to you and your comfort level. But do you need to? No.
Conclusion
No matter whether you decide to seal your quartz countertops or not, you’re sure to have a strong surface. As a man-made countertop, quartz is built to last, and with a non-porous finish whether it has a sealant or not, it’s ready to withstand all your spills and recipe explorations.
So, does quartz need to be sealed? Whatever your questions, our staff atPro Stone Countertops can guide you through it. Call us at 662-212-5927 or fill out our online form and we will begin working with you through all your quartz countertops needs.