Yes. Quartzite requires sealing. Many people confuse quartz with quartzite and don’t seal the latter. However, quartz and quartzite are two different materials. Quartzite is a natural stone, much like marble and granite, and quartz slabs are made from ground quartz and polymer resin, making it less porous and durable than natural stones.

Quartzite is a porous material and requires sealing to protect it from spills, stains, and bacterial growth. The liquids can seep into the stone quickly and damage its structural integrity when sealing is absent.

How to Seal Quartzite?

Before sealing your quartzite countertop, clean it and remove all the stains. Applying sealer on stained surfaces will push the stains further inside the pores and make them permanent. You can clean quartzite surfaces with commercial cleaners or a solution of mild detergent and water. Make sure that the surface is completely dry before you start cleaning.

• Ask your supplier for the right sealer as per the type/color of quartzite installed at your home, or buy a high-quality sealant from a nearby hardware store.
• Apply the sealant as per the instructions on the packaging. Make sure to spread the sealant evenly to avoid lumps on the surface.
• Some sealants may require a second coat after 24-48 hours. Don’t use your kitchen during drying time to ensure proper application.
• Open windows and doors during application for ventilation.
• Do not use the counters for at least 24 hours after applying sealant.

Pro Tip: Most quartzite sealants are made from natural wax, acrylics, or polyurethane. These sealants are easy to apply and give great results. However, they don’t last long, and you’ll require resealing after a year or two. On the contrary, sealants made with siliconates are far more long-lasting. They penetrate the surface and give better protection against spills, stains, and corrosion.

How often should you Seal Quartzite?

It depends on the area in which it is installed and your usage pattern. You can go for bi-annual sealing for high-traffic areas like the kitchen, bathroom, flooring, and exterior slabs. A yearly sealing is good for walls and roofing.

You may need to seal quartzite countertops after 3-4 months if you have a big family and your kitchen is exposed to rough use.

Some sealants can last up to 6-8 years. You can check whether your quartzite surfaces require sealing by doing a water test. Simply sprinkle a few water droplets on the surface and wait 10-25 minutes. If the water is still there after 15 minutes, there is no need to seal the quartzite.

Tips to Avoid Stains on Quartzite Surfaces

A sealant increases quartzite’s resistance against spills, stains, and damage, but it doesn’t mean that the stone is now waterproof. You still have to take care of it. Here are a few tips to help you keep quartzite surfaces clean, especially countertops.

• Wipe the spills as soon as possible; letting the spills sit on the surface allows the liquid to penetrate the stone.
• Avoid vinegar, CLR, bleach, ammonia, acids, and other harsh cleaners; these things don’t etch the surface but damage the sealant layer.
• Never use abrasive brushes or pointed tools to remove stains.
• Never cut fruits or vegetables or prepare drinks directly on the stone countertops.
• Use a poultice to remove stubborn stains from your countertop.
• Always follow the instructions while using commercial cleaners on quartzite surfaces.
• Polish quartzite or other natural stone surfaces every 1-2 months to maintain the gloss and shine.

How much does it cost to Seal Quartzite?

A good quality sealant bottle can cost up to $100. Depending on surface size, DIY sealing usually costs $30-$60. Professional sealing costs more and depends on size, labor costs, and dirt level on the surface.

What other materials can I use for Countertops?

You can use granite, marble, quartz, stainless steel, and wood for countertops. Each material has its pros and cons. You must select the one that suits your needs the best.