When purchasing a kitchen countertop, it’s important to choose one that is durable, attractive, and easy to maintain. Quartz is among the top choices for homeowners because it meets these criteria. In recent years, quartz countertops have gained a stellar reputation for their beauty, durability, and longevity.
However, despite their durability, quartz countertops are not immune to damage. They can chip and crack, particularly around the edges or seams.
Discovering a chip in your quartz countertop can be disheartening. Fortunately, instead of replacing the entire countertop, you can repair the chip. Below, we provide details on what causes these chips, how to prevent them, and what steps to take if they occur.
What Causes Chips on Quartz Countertops?
Although quartz countertops are exceptionally durable, they are still susceptible to chipping, especially in high-traffic areas of the home. Chips can occur due to various reasons such as:
- Bumping the edge with heavy objects
- Placing heavy items on the surface
- Dropping heavy kitchen materials and equipment
- Sitting or standing on the countertop
Additionally, using sharp knives directly on the surface or exposing it to acidic substances like bleach and abrasive cleaners can weaken the resin, making it more prone to chipping and cracking.
How to Prevent Chips on Quartz Countertops
Maintaining the pristine condition of your quartz countertop is simple if you follow a few easy guidelines:
- Cleaning: Use water and a damp cotton cloth to clean the surface. Avoid using bleach and abrasive cleaners. Quartz is non-porous and can resist many stains from fruits, vegetables, and various liquids. Ensure to wipe up spills immediately to prevent any potential damage.
- Avoid the following:
- Cutting: Although quartz is scratch-resistant, cutting, dicing, chopping, or slicing food directly on the countertop can cause scratches. Always use a cutting board.
- Chipping: Be especially careful around corners and seams to prevent damage.
- Heat: Do not place hot pans directly on the countertop, as they can cause the resin to loosen. Use trivets and hot mats for protection.
By adhering to these simple tips, you can keep your quartz countertop looking new and vibrant for years to come.
What Should You Do If You Find a Chip?
- Check Your Warranty: First, review your warranty to see if the damage is covered. Many manufacturers offer warranties of at least one year or longer.
- Inspect the Damage: Assess the cause and extent of the damage to help prevent future issues and understand how the chip occurred.
- Clean the Area Thoroughly: Use a cleaner with ammonia to clean the countertop, including the chip or crack. Dry the area with a microfiber cloth.
- Protect Surrounding Areas: Place masking tape around the chip to avoid staining nearby surfaces when applying adhesive.
- Apply Clear Superglue: Clear superglue is ideal because it is less noticeable. Use a spatula or brush to apply a thin coat of glue to the chip, building it up to the level of the surrounding surface. Avoid using too much glue to reduce drying time.
- Use Pigmented Epoxy for Dark or Textured Countertops: For darker or textured countertops, a pigmented epoxy adhesive may be more suitable. Mix the epoxy with a dye that matches your countertop’s color.
- Sand the Area: Once the adhesive is dry, use sandpaper with grit ranges between 360 to 600 to smooth out the surface and blend the repair with the surrounding area.
- Fill Minor Cracks: For minor cracks, fill the area with caulk, gradually working through the length of the crack. Some people prefer silicone caulk for a smoother finish. Remove any excess caulk and use plastic to smooth the caulk line.
By following these steps, you can effectively repair chips and maintain the appearance of your quartz countertop.
Get Professional Countertop Help
Accidents are inevitable, especially in the kitchen. While minor chips can often be repaired with minimal effort and materials using the steps outlined above, larger chips or damage may require professional assistance. If you’re uncomfortable making the repairs yourself or the damage is extensive, it’s best to contact a professional.
For countertops that show significant wear and tear with multiple chips and cracks, a professional might recommend installing a new countertop. Whether you’re replacing old countertops or installing new ones during a remodel or new build, quality is paramount.
At Edstone, we provide top-quality stone countertops, including quartz, granite, and marble. Our showroom features a wide selection of these materials in stunning and unique designs, colors, and patterns.
With over 18 years of experience in fabricating and installing kitchen and bathroom countertops throughout Orlando, we offer the most exquisite granite and sophisticated quartz options to enhance your remodel or renovation. Visit or call us for a free design consultation today!
