Quartzite countertops have increasingly become one of the most popular countertop options in recent years. Nevertheless, a lot of homeowners do not know much about quartzite care, cleaning, and maintenance.
Read on to discover all you need to know about quartzite countertops and how to clean them:
What Is Quartzite?
Quartzite is a type of natural stone known for its incredible durability and beauty. A metamorphic stone, it is formed through immense heat and pressure underneath the earth’s crust. The result is an incredibly hard natural stone that is available in an incredible range of stunning and vivid colors. While quartzite slabs look like marble slabs, it has the added benefit of being even more hardwearing.
Quartzite is an ideal choice for countertops because of its durable properties. Unlike many other natural stone countertops, it is highly resistant to scratch, staining, and chipping. Additionally, it is heat-resistant and non-porous, so it is unlikely to be damaged by heat or water.
While quartzite is commonly confused with quartz, also known as soft quartzite, the two are very different. While quartzite is a natural stone, quartz is manufactured. They have different properties, too. Quartzite is typically more hardwearing and expensive, while quartz is a cheaper option yet more susceptible to scratching and staining if not properly maintained.
How To Clean Quartzite Countertops
One of the best advantages of quartzite countertops is that they are easy to clean and maintain. Based on guidelines from the Natural Stone Institute, a leading expert in natural stone care, as well as our own expertise, here is everything you need to know about cleaning and maintaining quartzite:
Cleaning
One of the most important factors when cleaning natural stone countertops is to use a neutral cleaner, such as a natural stone cleaner or mild liquid detergent along with warm water. Use a paper towel or soft cloth to spread the soap across the surface, then use warm water to rinse the surface and then dry. Many brands offer special natural stone cleaners, or you can create your own solution by mixing mild liquid detergent and warm water. Always avoid cleaners with acidic substances like lemon or vinegar or any abrasive materials like a scourer.
For bathroom vanity quartzite countertops, soap scum can be cleaned using a neutral, non-acidic soap or soap scum remover. Or, you may mix a solution of 1/2 cup ammonia with a gallon of water to clean the surface. Nevertheless, it is important to use the ammonia solution sparingly, as repeated use can damage the surface. Warning, do not mix ammonia and bleach.
If you do have the misfortune of having an acid stain on your countertop, you can remove the stain with a solution of 12% hydrogen peroxide and a couple of drops of ammonia. For any oil-based stains, use household detergent, mineral spirits, or acetone.
Maintaining
While quartzite countertops are less susceptible to staining and etching than most other natural stone slab options, it is still important to carefully clean and maintain your countertop. Be careful not to spill any acidic substances, such as coffee, tea, wine, or lemon juice, on the surface of the countertop. If you do, be sure to clean up any spills quickly using the cleaning methods mentioned above.
As quartzite slabs are heat resistant, you do not have to worry about safeguarding your surfaces while cooking. Nevertheless, it is always a good idea to use coasters and mats before placing something very hot directly on the countertop’s surface.
Sealing
Sealing is another great way of protecting the surface of your countertop. Although quartzite is durable, it is always important to safeguard your investment and maintain its pristine look for years to come. Regularly re-sealing the surface of your quartzite slab will make it even more stain-resistant and long-lasting.
Conclusion
Quartzite countertops may be incredibly durable and timeless, but it is still important to care for its surface. Nevertheless, they are the perfect low-maintenance option and are easy to clean and maintain.
If you are looking for quartzite countertops, browse Marble Systems’ selection of quartzite slabs online today. Or, consider some of our other countertop options, such as marble slabs, granite slabs, porcelain slabs, soft quartzite slabs, and more.