What Is Quartz Made Of?
Quartz countertops are engineered stone made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically makes up 90-94% of the material, while resins act as a binder and pigments add color and pattern.
Unlike natural stone countertops such as granite or marble, the color of a quartz counter is not dependent on natural mineral variations. The pigments added during manufacturing give quartz its consistent coloring throughout.
Do Quartz Countertops Change Color?
The short answer is yes, quartz counters can change color slightly over time. However, when properly cared for, these changes are minimal. Here are three factors that can cause the color of quartz to change:
Sun Exposure
Like other materials, quartz is susceptible to fading and discoloration from prolonged sun exposure. Quartz contains resins that can yellow over time with UV exposure. Positioning quartz countertops away from direct sunlight will help minimize color change.
Heat
Exposing quartz counters to excessive heat can damage the resin binders in the material. Using trivets for hot pans and being cautious with appliances that generate heat will prevent discoloration.
Cleaning Chemicals
Cleaning quartz with harsh chemicals like bleach, alkaline cleaners, or abrasive pads can degrade the finish and alter the color. Mild dish soap and water or stone-safe cleaners are ideal for routine quartz care.
How to Keep Quartz Countertop Color from Changing
Maintaining the original color of your quartz countertops involves following a few simple guidelines:
- Avoid exposing counters to direct sunlight as much as possible. Use window treatments to block UV rays.
- Always use heat trivets and hot pads when placing hot pans on the surface.
- Clean with non-abrasive materials like soft cloths, sponges, or nylon scrub pads.
- Use pH-neutral stone cleaners instead of harsh chemicals.
- Reseal quartz every 1-2 years with a penetrating sealer made for engineered stone.
- Regularly remove stains like wine, oil, and grease that can soak into the surface.
What If My Quartz Countertop Has Discolored?
If you notice your quartz countertop already starting to change color or discolor in areas, don’t panic. Professional quartz restoration is available to remove stains and restore the counters to their original factory finish.
Procedures like mechanical polishing combined with chemical cleaning can rejuvenate the top layer of the material for a uniformly colored surface. It’s best to have restoration done before discoloration becomes too pronounced.
Can I Change the Color of My Quartz Countertop?
While it is possible to apply a quartz color enhancer to alter the tone slightly, dramatically changing the color of an installed quartz counter is not realistic.
The pigments that give a quartz slab its coloring are mixed throughout during manufacturing. The only way to completely change the color would be to replace the countertop.
If you are interested in a new color, consider a quartz overlay. This applies a fresh layer of quartz over the existing counters. Overlays provide the look of new counters without a full replacement.
Conclusion
It’s normal for quartz countertops to exhibit minor color changes over many years of use. By implementing proper care and avoiding damage from sun, heat, and chemicals, you can keep quartz looking like new for decades. If discoloration does occur, professional restoration can renew the finish. With a little maintenance, quartz countertops will retain their beautiful, consistent coloring for the lifetime of your kitchen or bath.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quartz Countertop Color Changes
Here are some common questions homeowners have about potential color changes with quartz counters:
Does Quartz Get Darker Over Time?
It’s rare for a properly maintained quartz countertop to suddenly darken or change to a completely different shade. Over many years, very slight darkening can occur from sunlight exposure and yellowing of resins. Keeping quartz out of direct sun prevents drastic color changes.
Why Did My White Quartz Turn Yellow?
Exposure to heat and UV light are likely causes of white or light quartz counters turning yellowish over time. The resin used to bind the crushed quartz can gradually yellow with prolonged exposure to sunlight. Avoiding direct sun and using heat protection helps maintain the original white color.
Can You Restore Quartz Color?
Yes, professional quartz restoration services are able to remove stains and restore discolored areas to match the original color. Procedures like mechanical polishing and chemical cleaning can rejuvenate the surface. It’s best to have restoration done before severe staining or damage occurs.
Does Quartz Stain Easily?
Quartz is less prone to staining than many other countertop materials due to its non-porous nature. However, prolonged exposure to staining agents like wine, oil, and coffee can cause discoloration on the surface over time. Wipe up spills quickly and clean quartz regularly to prevent stains.
Should I Seal My Quartz Countertop?
Sealing is an optional maintenance step that provides added protection from stains that may alter quartz color. Use a penetrating sealer designed for engineered stone every 1-2 years. Make sure to test sealers in an inconspicuous spot first before applying to the entire counter.
Does Quartz Countertop Change Color Over Time? Final Thoughts
Quartz offers one of the most color-consistent countertop options available. When properly cared for, quartz counters retain their original factory coloring for years. Minor color changes can occur over decades of use, but these are gradual and often imperceptible. With routine maintenance to guard against sun, heat, and chemical damage, you can enjoy durable, vibrantly colored quartz counters that stand the test of time.