Quartzite Solution and Recommendations Guide
What is Quartzite?
Quartzite is a dense, durable metamorphic stone formed when sandstone rich in silica undergoes intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s crust. Unlike marble, which is primarily composed of calcite, quartzite is quartz-based — giving it exceptional hardness and resistance to everyday wear.
With a Mohs hardness rating of 7, quartzite is one of the most resilient natural stones used in countertops, floors, and wall applications.
Key Characteristics
Naturally porous and requires regular sealing to prevent staining
Distinctive veining and color variations create one-of-a-kind surfaces
UV resistant and suitable for indoor or outdoor use
Can be damaged or discolored by extreme heat — always use trivets
Moderately scratch-resistant, though cutting boards are still recommended.
Because quartzite has a tight, dense pore structure, moisture can sometimes get trapped along cut or unsealed edges. This may cause darkening or discoloration, especially on lighter stones. Oils, detergents, and cosmetics can worsen the issue if repeatedly introduced to those untreated edges.
When fabricated and sealed properly, quartzite provides decades of service and beauty. However, lighter or grey quartzites can be more prone to visible staining. The following recommendations are based on years of real-world experience restoring and maintaining natural stone surfaces.
Note: The information below is provided as general guidance only and does not replace professional evaluation. Always wear gloves and eye protection when using cleaning agents, and test any method on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Quartzite Stain Removal Guide
Below are general solutions for removing common types of stains — including adhesive, oil, water, iron, and organic discoloration. Please click on the appropriate button to get the guide you need.
Adhesive or Synthetic Residue
(Glue, epoxy, resin, plumber’s putty, latex, silicone, etc.)
Apply lacquer thinner, acetone, or Goof Off directly to the affected area. Keep it damp for several minutes to help dissolve residue.
If little improvement occurs after 10 tries, apply a poultice:
Mix baking soda with acetone or Goof Off into a pancake-batter consistency.
Spread the paste over the stain, extending about ½ inch beyond the affected area.
Cover with plastic wrap and tape down the edges (especially for vertical surfaces).
Let sit for 12 hours, remove, clean, and repeat if necessary.
Oil Stains
Option 1 – Baking Soda Poultice
Repeat the poultice method above until the discoloration lightens or disappears.
Option 2 – Professional Stain Removers
Clean with a stone-safe cleaner or acetone.
Apply Mangia Macchia or Dr. Fred’s Stain Remover per product instructions. Cover with plastic if vertical. Let sit for 12 hours, then remove.
Wipe residue with a damp cloth. If successful, rinse with water, let dry, and reseal the stone.
For any remaining marks, apply Salon Care 40, overlap by ½ inch, and cover with plastic for one hour. Remove and wipe thoroughly.
Water Stains
Combine baking soda with acetone to form a paste.
Spread evenly, overlapping by ½ inch.
Cover and let sit for 12 hours, then remove. Repeat if necessary.
Ensure the surface is fully dried afterward (see drying instructions below).
Note: Very important to dry Quartzite. Click here to learn how.
Iron or Rust Stains
Dampen the area with lacquer thinner, acetone, or Goof Off to break down sealer residue.
Apply Salon Care 40, overlapping by ½ inch.
Cover with plastic and let sit 1–4 hours.
Remove, rinse, and repeat if needed.
If purple discoloration remains from rust removers like RSR 2000, re-treat briefly with Salon Care 40, then rinse again.
Note: Very important to dry Quartzite. Click here to learn how.
Organic Stains
(Food, cosmetics, or plant-based materials)
Follow the same steps as for iron stains using Salon Care 40, allowing 1–4 hours of dwell time.
Repeat as needed, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
Note: Very important to dry Quartzite. Click here to learn how.
Proper Drying After Stain Removal
To accelerate drying and prevent moisture entrapment:
Position a heat lamp or painter’s light 16–24 inches away from the surface.
Run in 1-hour on / 30-minute off cycles to avoid overheating.
Do not allow the stone to become hot to the touch.
This controlled drying helps pull out remaining moisture and restore color uniformity.
Fabrication & Sealing Recommendations
After cutting slabs, clean thoroughly with deionized water to remove impurities.
Allow full drying before fabrication.
Choose adhesives that won’t wick or bleed into the stone; always test first.
After fabrication, seal all surfaces (front, back, and edges) with 3–4 coats of Dry-Treat Waterborne until the surface reaches rejection.
Once installed and adhesives have fully cured, clean and apply 3–4 coats of Dry-Treat Dense Stone Impregnator for lasting protection.
Seal edges, seams, aprons, and returns thoroughly.
Ongoing Quartzite Care
To maintain your quartzite’s brilliance:
Reseal surfaces every 12–24 months
Use a pH-neutral cleaner designed for natural stone
Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaning agents
Use coasters, trivets, and cutting boards to minimize surface stress
We recommend Granite Gold Daily Cleaner, Sealer, and Polish for regular care and maintenance.
Professional Help
If you’re dealing with deep or recurring stains, Pellegrino Stone Care offers professional quartzite restoration services across Southern California — from cleaning and resealing to resurfacing and UV-cured protection.
Our certified technicians have decades of experience restoring even the most delicate natural stone to its original elegance.