Quartz countertops have become increasingly popular in recent years as a durable, low-maintenance, and stylish option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. However, some homeowners may be concerned about potential cracking with quartz countertops. Here we’ll examine the factors that can contribute to cracks, steps that can be taken to prevent them, signs to look out for, and what to do if you discover a crack in your quartz countertop.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-94%, with remainder consisting of polymer resins that bind the material together.
Compared to natural stone options like granite and marble, quartz offers superior resistance to stains, scratches, heat, and water. The resins make quartz non-porous, so it does not require regular sealing like more porous natural stones. The added pigments also allow quartz to be manufactured in a wide array of colors and patterns.
Do Quartz Countertops Crack Easily?
Overall, quartz countertops are highly resistant to cracks and breakage under normal use. However, no countertop material is entirely immune to potential cracks. Certain factors can contribute to an increased risk of cracks forming in quartz:
Improper Installation
Incorrect measurement, inadequate support, or improper seaming during installation can place stress on quartz slabs and make them more prone to cracking later on. Hiring an experienced installer is key to preventing installment issues.
Direct Force/Impact
A sudden, extreme force such as a heavy object being dropped directly onto the countertop can cause impact cracks or chips. Quartz is sturdy, but a significant impact can damage the material.
Thermal Shock
Exposing quartz to sudden and extreme temperature swings can create thermal shock. Placing hot pans directly on the surface or exposing only one part of the countertop to high heat can set up temperature differentials that lead to cracks.
Tension Cracks
Improperly secured quartz that is allowed to sag or is installed without adequate support can develop tension cracks along the underside or seams as underlying support fails.
Natural Material Stress
While rare, internal stresses that developed within the quartz slab during manufacturing can later manifest as cracks after installation.
Settlement Shifts
Minor settling or movement in the cabinets/base the quartz is installed on that causes shifting, flexing, or misalignment can result in cracks forming.
Tips to Prevent Cracks in Quartz
While quartz’s durability and strength make cracks unlikely, taking some simple precautions can further reduce the risk:
- Hire an experienced and reputable quartz fabricator/installer. Careful measurement, seam placement, edge buildup, and installation are vital.
- Inspect quartz slabs closely prior to installation. Look for any cracks or flaws within the material itself that could propagate later.
- Ensure underlying cabinets and supports are solid, stable, level, and plumb. Reinforce as needed.
- Use brackets, supports, and adhesives during install to properly secure quartz slab and prevent movement.
- Avoid exposing quartz to direct high heat. Use trivets and hot pads under hot pans.
- Prevent excessive weight and impact on countertop by avoiding heavy objects being dropped.
- Seal seam lines properly to avoid moisture penetration that could undermine structural integrity.
- Address any areas where quartz might be sagging or unsupported underneath to avoid tension.
- Take care with the edges of the countertop during daily use to prevent chips that could spread.
Signs of Cracks Developing
While cracks can seem to appear out of nowhere, there are some subtle signs that may indicate an issue is developing:
- Visible cracks – Thin microcrack lines along the surface or seams of the quartz. Often preceded by other symptoms first.
- Popping/snapping noises – Strange noises when pressing down on certain areas may signal cracks forming internally.
- Unevenness – Subtle changes in the height of parts of the counter could indicate shifting, sagging, or cracks underneath.
- Separation – Edges or seams that start to pull away or show small gaps can be a precursor to cracking.
- Moisture – Water penetration along seams or edges may be exploiting cracks or undermining the substrate to cause new ones.
Any observed changes in the appearance, feel, or sound of a quartz countertop should be inspected immediately to identify a potential issue early.
What to Do if a Crack Occurs
If you do discover a crack in your quartz countertop, remain calm. Not all cracks necessarily require full replacement. Here are tips on dealing with it:
- Carefully inspect the length, width, depth, and location of the crack. Note whether the crack shows any sign of expanding.
- Contact your original quartz fabricator/installer to have them assess the damage. They may be able to repair it.
- Smaller, superficial cracks may be able to be filled or sealed through a professional repair process to prevent further spread.
- For longer cracks or ones that run along seams and joints, a full quartz countertop replacement may be required.
- Cracks caused by installation issues should be covered by the original installer’s warranty to repair or replace.
- For cracks that develop later on, consult your homeowners insurance – some policies may help cover replacement costs.
- If replacement is needed, be sure to carefully review what led to cracking to prevent recurrence with the new quartz top.
FAQ About Cracks in Quartz Countertops
Some frequent questions that come up regarding cracking in quartz countertops:
Can cracks in quartz countertops be repaired?
Minor cracks and chips on the surface of quartz can often be repaired through professional filling procedures. However, long cracks, especially along seams/joints, usually require a full quartz replacement.
Do hairline cracks in quartz countertops mean replacement?
Not necessarily. Hairline cracks under 1-2mm wide can frequently be repaired through sealing and injection methods. However, multiple hairline cracks together may indicate a more serious problem requiring replacement.
How much does it cost to repair a cracked quartz countertop?
Costs vary based on crack size and necessary repairs. Surface chip repairs could start around $100+. Longer seam cracks requiring professional epoxy injections could run $300+. Full replacements of large sections can be $1,000+.
What causes cracks to form in quartz countertops after installation?
Post-installation cracks are often caused by shifting foundations, inadequate support underneath, excessive force/impact, or dramatic temperature changes leading to thermal shock. Pre-existing flaws in the quartz material itself can also sometimes manifest later as cracks.
Can you patch a cracked quartz countertop yourself?
DIY repairs are not recommended for quartz. The material is very difficult to work with and achieve seamless repairs without professional tools and training. Most quartz manufacturers advise against owners attempting repairs on their own.
Do quartz countertops crack from heat?
Excessive or sudden heat exposure can potentially cause cracks in quartz countertops. The rapid temperature change causes thermal shock. However, quartz can withstand normal heat exposure from pots/pans with proper trivet use. Cracking from standard usage is unlikely.
Are Cracks Unavoidable in Quartz Countertops?
Cracks are relatively uncommon with quartz countertops, especially in comparison to more natural stone options which can be quite prone to cracking. When cracks do appear, it is rarely without reason. If proper care is taken during selection, inspection, installation, and everyday use, quartz provides one of the most crack-resistant countertop options available. However, no material is completely immune to damage, so exercising due diligence and acting quickly at any sign of trouble can help quartz look pristine for decades.
Do Quartz Countertops Stain Easily?
Quartz countertops have many strengths, but one of their most prized qualities is resistance to stains. However, some homeowners may still be concerned about the potential for stubborn staining. Here we’ll look at what can lead to stains on quartz and steps you can take to prevent them.
The Low Stain Risk of Quartz
Quartz countertops are engineered composites, made from approximately 90% ground quartz particles combined with pigments and resin binders. The high percentage of stone makes them exceptionally tough and virtually non-porous. This lack of surface pores and absorption prevents most potential stains from penetrating the material.
In comparison to natural stone countertops like marble or travertine which are very prone to staining, quartz performs excellently. The resins makequartz more flexing in resisting stains. However, quartz is not entirely stain-proof. Certain substances and conditions can still lead to stubborn staining if not addressed promptly.
What Can Stain Quartz Countertops?
While quartz strongly resists most common kitchen and bathroom spills, a few problematic substances can lead to stubborn staining issues:
- Oils – Greasy oils like olive oil and vegetable oil that are left to sit for prolonged periods can seep into quartz and cause oily stains.
- Foods with Strong Pigments – Foods with deep hues like tomato sauce, mustard, and red wine contain pigments that could stain if not cleaned soon after spills.
- Harsh Chemicals – Cleaning products with dyes, bleach, alkaline pH levels above 11, or high acid content can etch or discolor quartz surfaces.
- Inks and Dyes – Permanent markers, pens, hair dye and other inky products have stubborn pigments that can leave marks if not wiped immediately.
- Metal Marks – Allowing metal cookware or hardware to rest on quartz long-term can create rust, copper, or silver-colored stains.
With prompt cleanup of spills and avoiding prolonged exposure to these substances, quartz excels at staying spotless. But allowing the above materials to sit for hours or days gives the staining agents time to bond.
Quartz Stain Prevention Tips
Keeping your quartz looking like new long-term involves taking a few simple precautions:
- Clean up food and drink spills quickly, especially those with oils, dyes, or pigments. Don’t let them sit for more than 10-15 minutes.
- Avoid using cleaners containing alkaline or highly acidic compounds which can etch and dull the polished surface over time.
- Rinse the quartz thoroughly after using staining products like wine, fruit juice, oils, hair dyes, etc.
- Use trivets and pot holders under hot pots/pans and oily cookware to prevent heat/grease stains.
- Re-seal quartz every 1-2 years with a penetrating professional-grade sealer made for engineered stone.
- Don’t let cleaning sprays, soaps, and skin/beauty products sit too long before wiping up.
- Avoid exposing quartz to pigment-heavy substances like turmeric, mustard, or soy sauce for prolonged periods.
With routine maintenance and attention, quartz provides one of the most stain-resistant countertop materials available. But as a manufactured composite product, it does require some care and upkeep to look its best long-term.
How to Remove Stains from Quartz Countertops
If stains do occur on your quartz, prompt action is key to successful removal:
Step 1 – Try Gentle Cleaners First
For recent, minor stains that aren’t too stubborn, a gentle pH-neutral cleaner like dish soap, vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide often does the trick. Gently rub and rinse completely with warm water.
Step 2 – Move to a Quartz-Safe Cleaning Spray
For more stubborn oily, inky, or dye-based stains that gentle cleaners can’t remove, use a specially formulated quartz cleaner. Spray onto stain, let sit 5-10 minutes, scrub with soft cloth or sponge, and rinse thoroughly.
Step 3 – Utilize Baking Soda or Powdered Cleanser
For really persistent stains not responding to liquid cleaners, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply to the stain and let sit 15-20 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. Alternatively, use a soft cloth with powdered cleanser. Rinse extensively afterward.
Step 4 – Call in a Professional
Extreme staining or damage that has penetrated deeply into quartz may require professional intervention. They have access to stronger cleaners (like hydrogen peroxide) and techniques that homeowners can’t utilize. This may become a last resort option.
With prompt, thorough cleaning, most stains can be removed successfully at home. But allowing them to set or penetrate increases difficulty. Contact your quartz dealer if stains remain and all DIY methods prove ineffective.
Long-Term Maintenance Against Stains
Preventing stains on quartz countertops involves establishing smart routines for maintenance:
- Quick cleanups – Never leave spills sitting more than 10-15 minutes. Clean promptly.
- ** pH-balanced cleaners** – Use only non-abrasive cleaners within the pH range of 7-11 recommended for engineered stone.
- Seal regularly – Reapply a quality penetrating sealer to quartz every 1-2 years as needed.
- Trivets and mats – Use these under hot dishes/pans or appliances that could drip oils.
- Avoid harsh chemicals – Do not expose quartz counters to strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners, etc.
- Rinse after use – Always rinse quartz thoroughly after working with staining products like food preps, hair/skin products or cleaners.
- Yearly deep clean – Perform an annual deep cleaning on quartz surfaces to keep them factory-fresh.
Sticking to smart maintenance habits allows you to enjoy stain-free, like-new quartz counters for decades. But neglect will compromise their long-term appearance. Consistent care is key.
Does Quartz Stain Like Granite?
Quartz and granite countertops share some visual similarities, but have very different characteristics when it comes to porosity and staining potential. Granite is a much more porous natural stone that requires extensive sealing to resist stains – quartz is essentially non-porous and highly stain-resistant by nature.
Here we’ll compare and contrast the stain tendencies and maintenance needs of quartz versus granite:
How Quartz Resists Staining
Quartz is composed of approximately 90% ground quartz aggregate bound together by polymer resins. The high quartz content provides hardness and durability, while the added resins make the material non-porous.
With no microscopic pores to allow stains to penetrate into the surface, liquids tend to bead up and wipe away easily. Prolonged exposure can still lead to some staining, but quartz’s non-porous qualities provide excellent stain resistance overall.
Quartz requires very little sealing – an application once every few years helps enhance water repellency. But it does not depend on sealants to prevent stains like more porous stones.
How Granite is Prone to Staining
Granite is a 100% natural stone product, containing no added resins or polymers. The mineral composition contains microscopic pore spaces, cracks, and fissures that allow liquids to readily absorb into the surface.
Once staining agents seep into granite’s pores, they bond at a molecular level and become extremely difficult to remove. Oils, dyes, and other liquids penetrate rapidly and result in stubborn staining.
To prevent this absorption, granite must be extensively sealed during installation, and constantly re-sealed every 6 months to 1 year. Without frequent reapplication of sealant, granite is highly vulnerable to permanent, unsightly staining.
Quartz vs. Granite Stain Comparison
| Trait | Quartz | Granite |
|-|-|-|
| Porosity | Non-porous | Porous |
| Staining Potential | Extremely low | High |
| Routine Sealing | Unnecessary | Vital every 6-12 months |
| Ease of Stain Removal | Relatively easy | Difficult |
| Heat Resistance | Very good | Poor |
The Importance of Sealing Granite Properly
For homeowners choosing granite, diligent sealing is absolutely mandatory. Allowing sealant to wear off will quickly lead to staining nightmares. Be sure to:
- Seal granite before exposing to any liquids during kitchen or bath use.
- Only use professional grade sealers made for granite and natural stone.
- Check sealant levels frequently and reapply every 6 months minimum.
- Seal again if any dark/oily liquid is observed soaking in rather than beading up.
When the inevitable next remodel or replacement arises, quartz’s durability and stain resistance largely avoids this intensive sealing maintenance. Quartz provides a much lower-maintenance experience compared to finicky granite.
How to Seal Quartz Countertops
While quartz countertops are inherently non-porous and do not require extensive sealing like granite or marble, an occasional reapplication of sealer can be beneficial. Sealing quartz every year or two enhances moisture protection and stain resistance.
Here are tips on when and how to properly seal your quartz countertops:
Should You Seal Quartz Countertops?
Since quartz is composed with durable resins that make is non-porous, sealing is not required. However, an occasional reapplication of sealer provides added protection by:
- Keeping liquids from penetrating tiny surface pits and scratches from use over time.
- Enhancing water repellency by causing it to bead up and roll off.
- Providing an added barrier against oils and stains adhering to the surface.
- Helping prevent etching or dulling of the polished finish.
- Filling in minor abrasions on the surface to keep the pristine look.
So while not mandatory, applying a