Facts About Quartz Countertops

Natural stone countertops are becoming increasingly more popular with homeowners and builders as a way to increase the beauty and value of kitchens and bathrooms. Quartz is a latecomer to the scene, but it is proving to be a gorgeous addition. Quartz offers all the function and features of other natural stone such as marble or granite and some advantages over the other natural stones.

What is Quartz?

Quartz is a natural occurring stone in nature. The surface of quartz is nonporous therefore there is no need to seal the countertop or to wax it. Quartz countertops are typically made up of pulverized quartz stone and, what most manufacturers refer to as “enhancing materials. These enhancing materials typically include a type of resin, which will harden the quartz into the countertop. Quartz can be manufactured in many different colors.

The cost of quartz is comparable to granite and aside from using quartz on countertops, many people choose quartz in their homes as stairs, flooring or fireplace mantles.

How to Care for Quartz Countertops

Although quartz appears to be a better choice than other natural stones for countertops, there are some things that need to be avoided when cleaning or caring for quartz.

Bleach is one of the few things that will discolor quartz, so make sure to avoid using bleach or any products that contain bleach in them on quartz countertops. Avoid abrasive cleaners; instead use softer cloths, sponges or paper towels with non-abrasive cleansers. Better yet, wipe up spills immediately and simply use water and a small about of dish soap to clean any spills or messes on your the quartz. Plastic scouring pads can be used on quartz, but do not use steel wool.

Benefits of Quartz

Some of the benefits quartz offers over other stones include:

• Quartz is harder than granite.


• The surface of a quartz countertop is more stain-proof then other stones.


• Quartz countertops do not promote bacteria growth as other stones do.


• Quartz does not require sealing.


• Can be manufactured in different colors.

Quartz in one of the hardest naturally occurring materials in nature in fact, only three other minerals are harder than quartz; sapphires, topaz and diamonds.

Quartz is a product that is easier to care for then other natural stones taking less time to clean and keep looking new.