Quartz countertops are one of the most popular choices among homeowners, and knowing the dos and don’ts of quartz counter care is crucial.
Quartz counters are amongst the most reliable stone options you can use throughout your property for your interior design. It is an engineered, manufactured stone that is extremely easy to maintain and resistant. However, there are still some things you should — and shouldn’t do — with your quartz counters.
So what exactly are the dos and don’ts of quartz counter maintenance and care? Continue reading to find out more.
What is Quartz?
To fully understand the fundamentals of caring for quartz countertops, you first need to know a bit about quartz itself. To begin, despite its organic look, quartz is not a natural stone. Quartz is a real, simple mineral found just about anywhere. In its raw form, quartz looks like a crystal. But that final stone-like product we all know as quartz counters is not 100% composed of the mineral.
The fabrication process of a quartz slab consists of crushing many of the crystals and other forms of highly resistant stone and adding bonding resins. This mixture contains up to 93% of quartz crystals. Coloring agents can then be added into an extremely high-temperature vacuum chamber that forms an incredibly durable slab of stone. The slab is then polished, finished, and then sold.
Of all kitchen countertops, quartz tops the list in terms of durability. Your countertop slab will be elegant and highly durable between the hard resin and the unique stone mixture. This tough counter can withstand plenty of wear and tear, but it is not indestructible.
The Dos and Don’ts of Caring for Your Quartz Countertops
Quartz counters are highly durable; however, proper care and maintenance are critical to ensuring they last for their entire expected lifespan. Lack of adequate care or a careless accident could damage even the heaviest-duty engineered slab. Here’s what you need to keep in mind as you use and care for your quartz counters:
DO NOT Scratch the Surface of Your Quartz Countertops
While quartz is scratch-resistant, it is not scratch-proof. It is important to remember that even if your counters are super durable, you should not use them as a cutting board. Avoid cutting directly on your countertops. Doing so will scratch the finish, making the stone much more vulnerable to stains and damaging its smooth, shiny appearance.
If you accidentally scratch the surface, make sure to address the issue immediately. There are things you do yourself to repair your counters, but the best way to handle a scratch is to call in professionals.
DO Gently Wash Your Quartz Countertops Regularly
One of the best ways to keep your counters looking pristine is to wipe them down at least once daily with a dampened soft washcloth and, if needed, a small amount of mild dish soap. Wiping away the day’s messes will keep stains from developing and keep your countertops free of grime, germs, and dust.
Check your counters at eye level for thorough cleaning to ensure you haven’t missed anything since crumbles and other particles can blend in on a busy slab. If you don’t want to use water and dish soap, you can purchase a cleaning solution specifically made for quartz counters at most grocers or home improvement stores. After washing, use a microfiber cloth to dry your quartz for a brilliant shine.
DO NOT Do Art Projects on Quartz Countertops
Letting your kids do their school projects or work on their art at the counter while you make dinner may be convenient. But do not let them use ink or permanent marker or paint on your bare countertops.
These substances can adhere to your quartz surfaces and are extremely difficult to remove. You can let your little ones use water-based products at the counter, but you may want to cover the surface during art time regardless of what they are using — just to be safe.
DO Use Hot Pads and Trivets
Engineered quartz counters can withstand high temperatures exceptionally well. That said, drastic and sudden changes in temperature can split quartz slabs right in the center of it or alter the color. It’s also important to understand that the smooth polish on the surface of your slab is not nearly as heat resistant as the stone underneath it.
Always use a hot pad or trivet under your hot pots or pans. Use caution when using countertop appliances like an air fryer. And use hot hair tools such as curling irons and straightening irons carefully as you place them on your bathroom quartz counters.
DO NOT Let Spills Sit
Above, we suggest you wipe down your quartz counters at least once daily. One time should be sufficient if there are no spills. Spilled liquids — even water — can seep through those tiny undetected holes or scratches in your counters and stain the stone beneath the surface.
Acidic liquids, like wine or vinegar, are incredibly fast-acting stain agents. To keep your counters in excellent, stain-free condition, clean up spills the moment they occur and dry the area thoroughly with a clean microfiber cloth.
DO Buy Your Quartz Countertops at Granite 4 Less
If you want quartz countertops in your home or business, the best thing you can do is contact the pros at Granite 4 Less.
Our team of experts is here to assist you in finding the best counters for your Salt Lake City home or business at a price that fits your budget. We offer a huge selection of affordable stones from quality manufacturers, such as granite, quartz, and marble. We specialize in quartz and granite countertops fabrication and installation services for your property.
With our extensive selection of unique colors and stone types, you will surely find the perfect countertop for your home. We are dedicated to providing quality services and products and work hard to complete your job on time and within your budget.
Check out our vast selection of high-quality bathroom and kitchen sinks and marble, granite, and quartz counters. Contact us to learn more today!