Quartz countertops are advertised with a lot of promise: They're stain-resistant, water-resistant, heat-resistant, easy-care, and more, making them perfect for busy families in every room of the house. You can even install a pure white quartz countertop without worry.
But is this true? Or is it just a sales tool?
To understand this we'll start by asking: "What exactly is a quartz countertop?",
Quartz countertops are a man-made engineered surface manufactured using natural quartz crystals and other minerals and pigments mixed with resins. The result is a durable surface that can resemble natural materials like marble or travertine, but also provide a unique look.
Unlike natural stone countertops, quartz countertops, even white ones, do not require sealing to maintain their resistance to moisture, staining, and other damage. This may be its greatest benefit! But like other countertop materials, stain-resistant quartz countertops aren't completely indestructible.
White countertops can be spectacular. But even white quartz countertops can easily get soiled by products like red wine, tea, coffee, ketchup, and more if not cleaned immediately. In this case, the staining solution will not be absorbed by the quartz countertop.
Staining occurs when the liquid reacts with the resin itself to create discoloration that is difficult to remove. The good news is that you can easily prevent these stains by cleaning up any spills immediately and using protective surfaces like trays, tripods, and cutting boards.
Another cause of staining, especially white quartz countertops, is improper cleaning. It's true - sometimes cleaning chemicals designed to make a kitchen sterile and sparkling actually make it look dirty. Avoid using any chemicals that contain solvents, such as paint thinners, cleaners, or oil soaps.
Also, don't use cleaners that contain bleach. The best way to clean quartz countertops is to use a mild soap, such as dishwashing liquid.
Scorch marks can spoil the appearance of white quartz countertops, even if they are faint. Quartz is heat resistant, but resin is not. Resin is actually more susceptible to damage from heat exposure than natural stone. Be sure to use a tripod or heat pad when setting down pots and pans.
Taking these guidelines into account will help you maintain the beauty of your quartz countertops for years to come, even pure white ones. This is mostly common sense and the problem is easy to avoid. Although quartz, like any other countertop surface, needs protection to keep it looking its best, it is still one of the most hassle-free and easy-care materials on the market.
