In recent years, engineered quartz has become one of the most popular countertop materials. This is due to many reasons, one being that it’s one of the most durable materials that you can find. But that makes people wonder: Just how durable are quartz countertops?
Why Is Quartz Durable?
So, you’ve heard that quartz is durable, but do you know why it’s durable? The reason they’re so hardy is that they actually do not qualify as a natural stone material. Instead, they are a manufactured material made mostly from natural quartz with about 10 percent polymers and resins added in to seal the pores and create unique strength
While natural stones have weak points or fissures that can cause them to be breakable, quartz is known for its uniform thickness throughout the whole slab. This is what makes it so resistant to breaks, chips, and scratches.
Chip and Crack Resistance
Thanks to the additives in quartz’s makeup, they tend to be more resistant to damage than any other type of countertop across the board. But just because they’re tough doesn’t mean they are indestructible. While they may be more impervious to major cracks and chips than natural stone is, they’re not immune to major damage.
Quartz countertops do not like being exposed to extreme heat or extreme cold. In those circumstances, these slabs are much more likely to sustain damage.
Quartz countertops may also be susceptible to chips and cracks along the edges. For example, if something strikes or scratches the edge of the slab, it may cause harm. If the same thing happens in the middle of the slab, it’s less likely to make an impact.
Stain Resistance
Most countertop materials are naturally porous, but quartz is not. These countertops do not require any sealing, and they are very difficult to stain or discolor thanks to the absence of pores.
But even though quartz countertops are tough on stains, they are not completely stain-proof. Dark liquids like wine, coffee, and tomato juice have the potential to stain if you leave them sitting out for long enough, so make sure to clean up spills as soon as you notice them.
Heat Resistance
Heat damage is one of the most common types of damage you’ll see in quartz countertops. Since the resins included in quartz’s composition are a type of plastic, they don’t exactly hold up well against heat and may melt.
Heat damage in quartz can result in staining, warping, and sometimes even cracking, so be careful when using hot kitchen appliances, and always remember to use a hot pad or trivet.
Is Quartz for You?
Now that you know the details on quartz’s durability, you can better decide if this stone is the right choice for your home. To learn more about quartz and its qualities, contact Legacy Tile & Granite today.
