Quartz countertops are known to be low-maintenance and easy to clean. Although a lot of the countertop materials will generally require sealing, sealing quartz countertops is not a necessary step in their upkeep. So what will happen if you do choose to seal them?
Sealing quartz countertops will provide an extra layer of protection from staining and prevent fading if you use the right method together with a good quality sealer specifically designed for quartz.
Having said this, there are a few questions that come to mind;
- What happens if you use a low-quality quartz sealer?
- What are the benefits of using a good quality quartz sealer?
- What are some of the best sealers you can use?
- What is the best way to apply a sealer?
In the rest of this article, we will take a look at each of these in more detail so that you will be able to make an informed decision. But first, let me address the elephant in the room? Do you need to seal quartz countertops?
Do You Need To Seal Quartz Countertops?
Generally, you do not need to seal quartz countertops as they are non-porous and do not require it for protection. Quartz is an engineered stone made up of approximately 90% ground quartz and other materials such as polymer resins.
This means that the surface is less likely to stain than other porous countertop options such as granite or marble. In addition, it is also less likely to fade in direct sunlight.
So if quartz countertops are so low-maintenance, why would you want to seal them? Let’s take a look at some of the benefits and demerits of sealing quartz countertops.
What Happens If You Use A Low-quality Quartz Sealer?
From the above, it is clear that using a good quality sealer on your quartz countertops provides a number of benefits. So, what happens if you use a low-quality sealer instead?
1. Little To No Protection
The first and most obvious consequence is that you will get little to no protection for your countertops. This essentially means you will not get the protection that you were hoping for and your countertops will be vulnerable to staining and fading.
So, if you want to seal your quartz countertops, make sure you use a good quality sealer specifically designed for quartz, or do not use any sealer on it at all.
2. Leaves Behind Chemical Residues
Also, low-quality sealers tend to leave behind chemical residues. These chemical residues can be harmful to your health if you are exposed to them on a regular basis.
So, not only will you not get the protection you were hoping for, but you will also be putting your health at risk especially if you have kids or pets. Therefore, it is best to avoid using low-quality sealers on your quartz countertops.
3. It Can Discolor The Quartz Countertops
Another consequence of using a low-quality sealer is that it can discolor the quartz countertops. This is because some of the chemicals in the sealer can react with the quartz and cause it to change color.
Not only that, but it can also make the countertops look dull and lifeless. So, if you want to keep your quartz countertops looking shiny and new, avoid using low-quality sealers.
4. Makes The Quartz Countertop Sticky
Using a low-quality sealer can also make the quartz countertop sticky. As you may know, quartz is a non-porous material so when you spray or apply a sealer on it, the sealer will sit on top of the countertop.
When you apply cheap sealers, they will not only sit on top of your quartz countertop surface but it will also make it sticky. This can be a big nuisance as no one likes the feel of a sticky countertop.
5. Difficult To Clean
Last but not least, using low-quality sealers on your quartz countertops will make it difficult to clean. This is because the sealer will start to build up over time and it will be hard to remove even with regular cleaning.
Also, the build-up of the sealer can make your countertop surface look dull. So, if you want to keep your quartz countertops looking clean and shiny, avoid using low-quality sealers.
What Are The Benefits Of Using A Good Quality Quartz Sealer?
Now that we know what happens if you use a low-quality quartz sealer, let’s take a look at the benefits of using a good-quality quartz sealer.
Before we get into the details of what benefits you can expect, it is important to note that quartz is a highly resistant material and will hold up even if you do not seal it. However, if you do choose to seal your quartz countertops, here are some of the benefits you can expect:
Provides Added Layer Of Protection:
As we mentioned before, using a good quality quartz sealer will provide an extra layer of protection for your countertops. This is a great way to keep your countertops looking new for longer.
Prevents Staining And Fading:
Another benefit of using a good quality quartz sealer is that it can prevent staining and fading. This is because the sealer will create a barrier that will protect the countertop from any spills or stains.
Not only that, but it will also protect the countertop from fading due to exposure to sunlight. So, if you want to keep your countertops looking new, using a good quality quartz sealer is a great way to do it.
Easier To Clean:
Another benefit of using a good quality quartz sealer is that it will be easier to clean. This is because the sealer will create a barrier that will prevent dirt and grime from sticking to the surface of the countertop.
So you will be able to remove any spills or stains a lot easier. So, if you are looking for an easy way to keep your quartz countertops clean, using a good quality quartz sealer is a great way to do it.
These are just some of the benefits you can expect if you use a good quality quartz sealer. As you can see, there are many advantages to using a good quality quartz sealer. So, if you are planning on sealing your quartz countertops, make sure to use a good quality quartz sealer.
Things To Consider When Choosing Quartz Sealer
There are a few factors that you need to consider when choosing a good quality quartz sealer such as;
1. Brand
The brand of the quartz sealer is important as you want to make sure that you are using a reputable brand. There are many brands on the market and it can be difficult to choose one.
However, let me share with you a few of the best ones out there to help point you in the right direction.
- Granite Gold:
The granite gold brand is one of the industry’s best when it comes to sealing countertops. It is made for granite but also recommended for quartz. It is a water-based sealer that will provide your countertops with long-lasting protection. If you’re interested, you can check it out over here on Amazon!
- Supreme Surface Cleaner, Polish, and Sealer:
This is another great option that you have and it is a three-in-one product. It will clean, polish, and seal your countertops all in one go. Unlike granite gold, this product is also made for all-natural stone surfaces including quartz. The best part is, that it also prevents fingerprints and smudges. You can check it out over here on Amazon if you’re interested.
- Weiman: Quartz Countertop Cleaner & Polish:
My last brand recommendation is the Weiman brand. This is a two-in-one product that will clean and polish your quartz countertops. It is made with a special formula that will not only make your countertops look shiny and new but it will also protect them from future damage. You can check it out over here on Amazon if you’re interested!
2. Type Of Sealer
The next factor that you need to consider is the type of sealer. There are two main types of sealers: water-based and solvent-based.
Water-based sealers are the most common type of sealer as they are non-toxic, easy to apply and they provide good protection. However, they do need to be reapplied more often than solvent-based sealers.
Solvent-based sealers are less common but they are more durable and they provide better protection. However, they can be toxic and more difficult to apply. Usually, a professional may be required to apply this type of sealer.
With that being said, it is up to you to decide which type of sealer you want to use. I would recommend using a water-based sealer as they are easier to apply and they provide good protection.
3. Sealant Finish
The last factor you need to consider is the sealant finish. There are two main types of finishes: matte and glossy.
The matte finish will give your countertops a natural look and it won’t show fingerprints or smudges as much. However, it is not as durable as the glossy finish.
The glossy finish will make your countertops look shiny and new. It is also more durable than the matte finish. However, it is more susceptible to fingerprints and smudges.
Again, it is up to you to decide which type of finish you want for your countertops. I would recommend using a glossy finish as it is more durable and it looks great.
4. Price
The price of the quartz sealer is another important factor to consider. You want to make sure that you are getting a good quality product for a reasonable price.
There are many brands on the market and they all have different prices. So, it is important to compare the prices of the different brands before making a decision.
At the end of the day, you want to make sure that you are getting a good quality quartz sealer for a reasonable price. I would recommend checking out the products I listed above as they are all great options!
Bonus Tip: Do well to check the product website of the manufacturer of the product for offers and promotional deals that could help you save some money.
5. Reviews
you can narrow down your choices by reading reviews of different brands. This will give you an idea of which brands are the most popular and which ones are the best.
Make sure to read reviews from different sources as you want to get a well-rounded opinion. You can find reviews on Amazon, Google, and other websites.
I would also recommend reading the instructions on the product before purchasing it. This will give you an idea of how easy or difficult it is to apply the sealer.
How To Apply A Sealant On Quartz Countertops
Now that you know everything there is to know about sealing quartz countertops, it’s time to learn how to apply a sealant.
Applying a sealant on quartz countertops is not as difficult as you may think. In fact, it is quite easy and only takes a few minutes. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Step 1: First, you need to clean your quartz countertops. Use mild soap and water to remove any dirt or debris. Dry the surface before you proceed
- Step 2: Next, you need to apply the sealant. If your sealant comes in a spray bottle, then simply spray it onto the surface. If your sealant comes in a liquid form, then use a cloth to apply it evenly.
- Step 3: Once you have applied the sealant, you need to let it sit for a few minutes before buffing it off with a clean dry cloth.
- Step 4: Leave the sealant to dry completely before using your quartz countertops.
And that’s it! You have now learned how to apply a sealant on quartz countertops. Make sure to follow these steps carefully and you will be successful.
Important Tips For Applying A Sealant On Quartz Countertops
Now that you know how to apply a sealant on quartz countertops, there are a few important tips you need to keep in mind. These tips will help you get the best results and ensure that your countertops are protected. Here are the important tips:
- Make sure to clean your quartz countertops before you apply the sealant.
- This will ensure that the sealant adheres properly to the surface.
- Use a lint-free cloth to apply the sealant. This will help to avoid any streaks or smears.
- Let the sealant dry completely before using your quartz countertops. This is important as it will ensure that the sealant is fully effective.
- Following these tips, you will be able to apply a sealant on quartz countertops successfully.