One of the most popular questions we get asked here at FavoredStoneGuides is whether or not it’s possible to buff scratches out of quartz countertops. The answer, as with most things in life, is it depends. Read on for the answer to this question and our step-by-step guide on how to remove light scratches from quartz without damaging the surface.
So, can you buff scratches out of quartz countertops? You can pour a small amount of polishing compound and then use a grinder securely fitted with a buffing pad, set at a speed of 2800 RPM to work the light scratches out of the quartz countertops. Be sure to go slowly and evenly over the entire surface to avoid creating new scratches or even melting the resins in the quartz.
Let’s delve deeper into this question and see what else you can do to remove scratches from your quartz countertops.
Buffing Light Scratch Out Of Quartz Countertops
As we mentioned before, the best way to remove light scratches from quartz is by using a polishing compound and a grinder fitted with a buffing pad.
However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before you start grinding away at your quartz countertops.
- Make Sure The Polishing Compounds Are Designed For Quartz
First, you need to make sure that the polishing compound you’re using is designed for use on quartz.
Some polishing compounds can actually damage quartz. This is because they often contain abrasives that are too harsh for quartz countertops.
- Using The Right Quantity Of Polishing Compound
Pour a 50-cent-sized dollop of a polishing compound onto the surface of the quartz countertop. Then, use a grinder to buff and spread the polishing compound evenly over the surface of the countertop.
You don’t want to use too much polishing compound, as this can make it difficult to remove all of the residues from the surface of the quartz countertop.
- Polishing Compounds Are Properly Mixed
You need to make sure the polishing compound is properly mixed. If it’s not mixed correctly, it can damage your quartz countertops.
The reason why you will have to mix some types of polishing compounds is that they come in powder form. When mixed with water, they create a slurry that’s perfect for polishing quartz.
Also, you might have to mix the polishing compound in order to lower the pH level. This is because some quartz countertops are more delicate than others and can be damaged by high pH levels.
The truth is not all polishing compounds will require you to mix them with water. Some will come in a ready-to-use form.
However, we still recommend that you read the manufacturer’s instructions before using any type of polishing compound on your quartz countertops.
- Use A Grinder Fitted With A Buffing Pad
Also, you need to use a grinder fitted with a suitable buffing pad. The reason you need to use a grinder is that it will give you more control over the polishing process.
It will also allow you to evenly distribute the polishing compound over the surface of your quartz countertops. The most important thing to do when it comes to using grinders is that it needs to be set to the right speed.
Not setting your grind to the right speed can cause the grinder to melt the resins used to bind the quartz. The recommended grinder speed suitable for quartz countertop surfaces is between 2800 and 3000 RPM.
As for the buffing pad, you need to make sure it’s not too abrasive. The last thing you want to do is damage your quartz countertops by using a buffing pad that’s too harsh.
We recommend using a white or beige buffing pad. These are typically the least abrasive and won’t damage or cause color transfer or fading.
- Buffing Pads Must Be Secure
Another important thing to consider is that the buffing pad you will be attaching to the grinder must be secure.
This is to avoid the buffing pad from coming off while you’re polishing your quartz countertops. The last thing you want is for the buffing pad or grinder to add more scratches your quartz countertops.
- Polish The Quartz Countertops In A Circular Motion
In addition to the above, you need to polish the quartz countertops in a circular motion.
This is because polishing in a circular motion will evenly distribute the heat and prevent the quartz from cracking or chipping.
Be sure to go slowly and evenly over the entire surface to avoid creating new scratches or damaging the quartz.
- Avoid Prolonged Hard And Heavy Buffing
You also need to avoid prolonged hard and heavy buffing. This is because it can actually damage the quartz countertops.
It’s important to apply just enough pressure to remove the scratches without damaging the surface of the quartz.
- Work Your Way Up
Begin with the lowest grade of polish, and work your way up. Before upgrading to a higher grade of polishing compound, be sure to clean the surface before replacing the pads.
- Use A Vacuum To Remove The Polishing Compound
After you’re done polishing, you need to use a vacuum to remove the polishing compound from the surface of your quartz countertops.
This is important because if you leave the polishing compound on your quartz countertops, it can cause them to become dull over time.
How to Remove Light Scratches from Quartz
Now that we’re aware of all the do’s and don’ts when it comes to buffing quartz countertops to remove scratches, let’s take a look at how to remove light scratches from quartz. For this, you will need:
- A white or beige buffing pad
- A grinder set to 2800 RPM
- A polishing compound (either in powder form or ready-to-use)
- Water (if using a powder form polishing compound)
- A vacuum
Procedure:
Step 1: Clean The Quartz Countertop Surface
- Start by cleaning your quartz countertop with mild dish soap and water to remove any dirt or debris.
- This is important so that you will be able to remove any dirt, dust, or stains that may be trapped within the scratches.
- It also makes the surface visible or easier to see so that you can focus on buffing out the scratches.
Step 2: Attach The Buffing Pad To The Grinder
- Next, you need to attach the buffing pad to the grinder.
- Make sure that the buffing pad is firmly attached and will not come off while in use.
Step 3: Apply Polishing Compound To The Surface
- Now, it’s time to apply the polishing compound to the surface.
- Pour a small amount of polishing compound onto the surface.
Step 4: Set You Grinder To The Right RPM
- Set your grinder to 2800 RPM.
- This is the recommended speed for polishing quartz countertops without damaging the surface.
Step 5: Buff The Scratches
- Now, you’re ready to start buffing out the scratches from your quartz countertops.
- Start by moving the grinder in a small, circular motion over the surface of the quartz.
- Be sure to apply even pressure while you’re buffing.
- Work your way slowly and evenly over the entire surface of the quartz countertops.
Step 6: Remove The Polishing Compound
- Once you’ve finished buffing out the scratches, it’s time to remove the polishing compound from the surface of your quartz countertops.
- To do this, you will need to use a clean microfibre cloth or lint-free rag to wipe away the polishing compound.
- You may need to use a little bit of water to help remove all of the polishing compounds from the surface.
Step 7: Repeat The Process If Necessary
- If necessary, repeat the process until all of the scratches have been removed from your quartz countertops.
How To Remove Heavy Scratches From Quartz
Now that we’ve gone over how to remove light scratches from quartz, let’s take a look at how to remove heavy scratches from quartz. For this, you may not be able to buff out the scratches.
For heavy or serious scratches, you might have to go a different route. Here’s what you can do.
Step 1: Clean The Quartz Countertop
- You want to start by removing any dirt, dust, or debris from the surface of your quartz countertop.
- To do this, you can use mild dish soap and water.
Step 2: Inspect The Scratches
- Next, you will want to inspect the scratch to see how deep it is.
- If the scratch is only surface level, then you might be able to lightly buff it out.
- However, if the scratch is deep, then you will need to use quartz fillers.
Step 3: Using The Quartz Filler
- To use a quartz filler, then you will want to start by mixing the filler according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Once the filler is mixed, you will want to apply it to the scratch using a putty knife.
- Be sure to fill all scratches completely and then allow the filler to cure completely.
- This will usually take up to 24 hours while other fillers may take up to 72 hours to cure.
Step 4: Scrape To Level
- Now that the filler has cured and set, you can start to scrape off the excess so that the filled-in scratched areas will match the level of the rest of the quartz countertop.
- You can use a razor blade or any other sharp, scraping tool to do this.
- Make sure to slant the razor blade at the right angle (around 45 degrees) so that you’re able to scrape off the excess without damaging the quartz.
Step 5: Clean Up
- Once you are satisfied with the results, you can go ahead and clean up the area.
- Remove any quartz filler that might have gotten on other areas of the countertop.
- You can use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe away any debris.
- And that’s it! These are just a few ways that you can remove scratches from your quartz countertops.
Tips To Prevent Scratches From Quartz Countertops
Here are a few tips that you can follow to help prevent scratches from happening on your quartz countertops.
- Use cutting boards when preparing food.
- Place trivets or mats under hot pans.
- Wipe up spills immediately.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners on the surface of your quartz countertops.
- Use a soft cloth when cleaning your quartz countertops.
Final Thoughts
Quartz is a durable and strong material, but it is not scratch-proof. So, if you do happen to get scratches on your quartz countertops, don’t worry! There are ways that you can remove them.
Just follow the steps that we’ve outlined in this blog post and you’ll have your quartz countertops looking good as new in no time.
We hope that this article was helpful and that you’re now able to remove any scratches from your quartz countertops with ease! Thanks for reading!
