Do quartz countertops need to be sealed?

No. Quartz is non-porous and does not require sealing. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is enough.

*There are quartz sealers on the market. They can help make cleaning easier especially in dark, and matte finishes.

Can I put hot pots and pans directly on my countertops?

• Quartzite: Generally heat-resistant, but trivets are still recommended.
• Quartz (engineered stone): No. Avoid direct heat above ~300 °F—resins can discolor or crack.
• Marble & Limestone: Can handle moderate heat but may suffer from thermal shock with very hot cookware.
• Porcelain: Yes. Heat resistant, we’ve seen people use induction heat and cooking directly on porcelain countertops.

What cleaners are safe to use?

• Natural Stone (Quartzite, Marble, Limestone): Use pH-neutral stone cleaners or mild dish soap with water. Avoid vinegar, bleach, or citrus cleaners—they can etch or dull the surface. Some customers tells us this adds to the character of marble over the years, this of course is not ideal for everyone.
• Quartz & Porcelain: Mild soap and water work fine. Avoid abrasive scouring pads or harsh chemicals. Very easy to clean.

How do I prevent stains and etching on marble or limestone?

• Use high quality stone sealers.
• Wipe up acidic spills immediately (wine, lemon juice, tomato sauce).
• Use coasters under drinks and trays under toiletries.
• Reseal regularly, this will slow down absorption of liquids.

Can I use quartz countertops outdoors?

No. Quartz is not UV-stable and will discolor or yellow in direct sunlight. For outdoor kitchens, porcelain slabs or quartzite are the better choices.

What’s the yearly cost to maintain countertops?

• Natural Stone (Quartzite, Marble, Limestone): ~$100–$200/year (sealants + cleaners).
• Quartz & Porcelain: <$20/year (basic cleaning supplies only).

How do I know if my stone countertop needs resealing?

Perform a water drop test: Place a few drops of water on the surface. If it darkens or absorbs within a few minutes, it’s time to reseal.

Is quartz easier to maintain than granite?

Yes. Quartz countertops are non-porous, so they don’t need sealing and resist stains better than granite. Granite is durable but typically requires sealing every 1–2 years to prevent staining. If you want the look of natural stone with less maintenance, quartz is the lower-maintenance option.

What is the easiest countertop to maintain?

Quartz and porcelain slabs are the easiest countertops to maintain. They do not require sealing, resist stains, and can be cleaned with mild soap and water. Unlike natural stone, they don’t etch or absorb liquids, making them a practical choice for busy households or rental properties.

How often should I seal natural stone countertops?

Quartzite should generally be sealed once a year, while marble and limestone should be sealed every 6–12 months. Sealing frequency can vary depending on usage and stone porosity. A simple water drop test can help determine if your stone needs resealing.

Do quartz countertops stain easily?

Quartz countertops are highly stain-resistant because they are non-porous, but they are not completely stain-proof. Substances like coffee, wine, or permanent markers can sometimes leave marks if not cleaned promptly. Using mild cleaners and wiping up spills quickly will keep quartz looking new.

Are porcelain countertops good for outdoor kitchens?

Yes. Porcelain countertops are UV-resistant, heat-resistant, and non-porous, making them ideal for outdoor kitchens. Unlike quartz, which can discolor in sunlight, porcelain maintains its color and performance outdoors with minimal maintenance.

Does marble require a lot of maintenance?

Yes. Marble is beautiful but requires more upkeep than other materials. It should be sealed every 6–12 months and protected from acidic spills, which can cause etching. Many homeowners embrace its “patina,” but those who want a low-maintenance option may prefer quartz or porcelain.