Cambria quartz countertops are an extremely popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. Made from natural quartz and resin, Cambria offers the look of natural stone with excellent durability. One common question that arises with Cambria quartz is whether or not you can cut directly on the surface. Here is a comprehensive look at cutting on Cambria quartz countertops.
An Overview of Cambria Quartz
Cambria is a leading manufacturer of quartz surfaces. The countertops are made from about 93% crushed quartz combined with 7% resin and pigments. This combination creates a non-porous, stain-resistant, and durable surface that retains the look and feel of natural stone.
Some key features of Cambria quartz include:
- Highly durable and resistant to scratches, cracks, and heat
- Does not require sealing
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Available in a wide range of colors and patterns
- Carries a 10-year limited warranty
With the appearance of natural stone coupled with enhanced durability, it’s easy to see why Cambria has become a top choice for countertops.
Can You Cut Directly on Cambria Quartz?
When it comes to actually using your Cambria quartz countertops, one of the most common questions is whether or not the surface can withstand cutting directly on it. The answer is yes, Cambria quartz countertops are durable enough to cut on in most cases. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:
Use a cutting board – While Cambria is durable, a cutting board should still be used for most cutting tasks to preserve the beauty of the quartz surface. Plastic, wood, or bamboo boards are ideal options.
Cut only on designated areas – Rather than cutting all over, choose one or two areas of the countertop close to the stove or sink to use for food prep. This will help control potential damage.
Avoid excessive force – When cutting, apply only light to medium pressure. Cutting with too much force increases the risk of marks and scratches. Let the sharpness of the knife blade do the work.
Opt for lighter cutting motions – Focus on lighter chopping, dicing, and slicing motions. Avoid aggressive hacking of dense foods like squash or root vegetables.
Use the right knives – Well-sharpened knives specifically designed for cutting are less likely to damage the surface. Serrated blades may cause extra scratching.
Clean spills promptly – Quickly wiping up oils, juices, or food particles after cutting will make the quartz easier to clean and less likely to stain.
Inspect regularly – Check the cutting area routinely for any cuts or scratches forming. Addressing damage early makes repairs easier.
Best Practices for Cutting on Cambria Quartz
While Cambria quartz stands up well to direct cutting, following some best practices will ensure your countertops stay looking like new:
- Always keep cutting boards handy and use them for the bulk of food prep. Consider having separate boards for produce, meat, and fish.
- Designate one area of the countertop close to the sink as the main prep area. Limit cutting to this space.
- When cutting directly on quartz, slice fruits, vegetables, breads, and soft cheeses. Avoid excessive hacking of hard items.
- Use sharp chef’s knives with thinner, smoother blades. Serrated knives may cause unnecessary scratching.
- Apply only light pressure when cutting and avoid rocking knives back and forth.
- Clean up food, oils, and juices promptly after prepping. Use a gentle cleanser designed for quartz.
- Inspect cutting areas frequently for any marks or damage. Addressing small cuts quickly can prevent further damage.
- Consider applying a quartz color enhancer regularly to help disguise and minimize the appearance of small cuts over time.
Options for Damaged Quartz Countertops
Even with the best care, Cambria quartz can still become scratched or damaged from direct cutting over time. If excessive damage occurs, there are options available to restore your countertops:
- Quartz repair kits – Kits containing compounds designed to fill in and repair damaged areas in quartz can help diminish the appearance of scratches and cuts.
- Professional resurfacing – For more extensive damage, professional quartz resurfacing uses abrasives and polishers to buff out imperfections and restore a uniform finish.
- Zone repair – This involves just replacing sections of quartz that are extensively damaged without doing the whole countertop. Great for small prep areas.
- Complete replacement – In cases of excessive damage that cannot be repaired, a full quartz countertop replacement may be required.
Maintaining Your Cambria Countertops
With routine care and proper cutting techniques, it’s certainly possible to cut directly on Cambria quartz countertops on occasion without issue. However, taking preventative steps will ensure your countertops stay looking pristine for years.
- Use cutting boards for the bulk of food preparation.
- Clean up spills immediately after cooking.
- Avoid exposing quartz to strong chemicals.
- Rinse with water after cleaning.
- Reseal with quartz sealer every 1-2 years.
- Inspect regularly for any damage and address promptly.
Conclusion
Cambria’s durable quartz material can withstand occasional direct cutting with proper care and maintenance. Focus on using cutting boards, addressing damage quickly, and limiting prep to designated areas. With routine sealing and inspection, you can safely utilize your beautiful Cambria countertops while keeping them in excellent shape for the long run.