Do Your Quartz Countertops Need to Be Sealed or Not?

Quartz countertops are crafted from a blend of natural quartz crystals and synthetic materials. These surfaces are celebrated for their toughness, non-porous quality, and a vast array of colors and designs. Unlike natural stone countertops, which often need regular sealing to retain their beauty and function, quartz offers a hassle-free alternative. So, do quartz countertops need to be sealed? The straightforward answer is no.

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Do Quartz Countertops Need Sealing?

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Quartz countertops do not require sealing due to their unique composition. Here’s why:

Quartz countertops are engineered to offer numerous benefits, making them a popular choice for modern kitchens and bathrooms. Their construction provides several advantages over natural stone surfaces, especially gaining favor with buyers when it comes to their maintenance. As for our explanation, here’s why we say quartz doesn’t need sealing:

• Robustness: Quartz is incredibly tough, one of the hardest materials you can find. It can handle all the daily wear and tear of a busy kitchen without getting scratched or damaged easily. 
• Non-Porous Surface: Unlike granite or marble, quartz doesn’t soak up spills or stains. You don’t have to worry about that red wine or coffee spill seeping in and leaving a permanent mark. For homes with young families this makes much more sense often times than other popular styles.
• Hygienic: The non-porous nature of quartz makes it a dream to keep clean. No tiny nooks and crannies for bacteria and mold to hide in, making your kitchen or bathroom a more sanitary space.
• Ease of Maintenance: A bit of soap and water is all you need to keep quartz countertops looking spotless. Compare that to natural stones, which require additional time and money spent investing in special cleaners and regular sealing.
• Aesthetic Varieties: With a wide range of colors and patterns, quartz can mimic the look of natural stones without all the upkeep. Plus, it stays looking just as good as the day it was installed.

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Common Myths About Sealing Quartz

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There are several misconceptions about quartz countertops and sealing that need clearing up:

Quartz Requires Annual Sealing: Actually, quartz is non-porous and doesn’t need sealing. You can cross that chore off your to-do list.

Sealant Protects Against All Stains: While quartz is very resistant to stains, it’s not invincible. Clean up spills promptly to keep your countertops looking their best.

Sealed Quartz Is More Durable: Quartz is already tough and scratch-resistant without any sealant. Adding a sealant doesn’t change this.

Professional Sealing Is Necessary: No need to call in the pros. Quartz surfaces are naturally sealed, so you’re good to go from install day.

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Composition and Durability of Quartz

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Quartz countertops are engineered from a mix of approximately 90-94% ground natural quartz and 6-10% resins, polymers, and pigments. This combination results in a highly durable and non-porous surface. Key aspects include:

• Hardness: Quartz ranks 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it very resistant to scratches. In comparison, granite ranks around 6-7, and marble ranks 3-5, making quartz significantly harder and more durable.
• Heat Resistance: While quartz can handle moderate heat, it’s best to use trivets for hot pots and pans to avoid any potential damage.
• Consistency: Quartz offers a uniform look, ensuring that your countertops have a consistent color and pattern, unlike the natural variations found in granite or marble.

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You might also like: Porcelain vs Quartz Countertops: Which is More Versatile for Your Kitchen

Final Thoughts

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Not having to worry about sealing is just one of the many rewarding benefits a quartz countertop can provide. Their ability to replicate natural stone in an array of unique and intriguing options, simple cleaning solution and robust qualities make them a convenient and long-lasting addition to any kitchen or bathroom. Unlike granite or marble, which are recommended to seal, an investment with quartz will ultimately save you time and money on maintenance over the years.

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For those looking for an elegant, yet practical countertop solution, quartz offers a reliable and aesthetically pleasing option that can improve any home's appeal. For a wide range of quartz countertop options and expert advice, visit us in Bend at Nelson Tile and Stone. Give our team a call today to find the perfect countertop for your home!

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