Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance. However, some homeowners wonder if quartz countertops fade over time with exposure to light and other environmental factors. Here is a detailed look at whether quartz countertops fade.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz provides strength and hardness, while the resins bind the material together. The pigments add color and pattern.
The result is a man-made material that mimics the look of natural stone but requires less maintenance. Quartz is non-porous, so it resists staining and etching better than granite or marble. It is also heat and scratch resistant. Quartz countertops are available in a wide range of colors and patterns to suit any style.
Do Quartz Countertops Fade?
One of the major advantages of quartz over natural stone is that it does not fade easily over time. The resins and pigments used to create quartz countertops are designed to be colorfast and UV stable. This means they resist fading or discoloration when exposed to sunlight and other light sources. Here are some key reasons quartz countertops resist fading:
UV-Stable Pigments
Manufacturers use high-quality pigments that are UV stable. This means the pigments won’t break down or react when exposed to the UV rays from sunlight. Natural stones like granite contain minerals and pigments that can fade over time with sun exposure. The consistent pigments in quartz prevent fading.
Non-Porous Material
Quartz is non-porous, unlike more porous natural stones. This means it does not absorb liquids, oils or other materials that can cause staining and discoloration over time. Any spills or messes on quartz can be easily wiped away without leaving a stain.
High-Quality Resins
The resins used in quartz counters are designed to be colorfast and resistant to UV light. Lower quality resins can degrade or yellow over time, but quality quartz manufacturers use advanced resins that maintain their color and strength.
Consistent Production
Since quartz is engineered in a factory setting, the production process is very controlled and consistent. This helps avoid variation in color or composition that can lead to fading with natural materials. The whole slab has uniform fading resistance.
Long-Term Performance
While no material is completely immune to fading, quality quartz countertops are designed to resist fading for many years. Here are some examples of how it holds up long-term:
- Most quartz manufacturers offer warranties of 15 years or longer against fading and discoloration. This speaks to the long-lasting color stability.
- Quartz installed 10+ years ago shows minimal signs of fading under typical home use. Only quartz in homes with extensive direct sunlight exposure shows slight fading over time.
- The material properties of resins and pigments used in quartz remain stable for decades unless exposed to extreme conditions. They hold up better than even high-end paints or coatings.
- Consumer reports and reviews of installed quartz countertops confirm that noticeable fading is rare after many years of use. Discoloration is very minimal compared to natural stone.
So while no material is fade proof, high-quality quartz made by leading brands is designed to resist fading and discoloration for many years under normal use. With proper care, quartz countertops retain their rich color and appearance.
Factors That Can Contribute to Fading
While quartz resists fading very well compared to other countertop materials, there are some factors that can increase the chances of gradual fading or discoloration over a long period of time. These include:
Prolonged Direct Sunlight
Quartz is designed to handle typical indoor UV light. But in cases of prolonged, intense direct sunlight, such as on a sunny patio or around large uncovered windows, slight fading is possible over many years. Using window treatments can help prevent this.
Inferior Quality Quartz
Cheaper quartz made with lower quality resins or insufficient pigments are more prone to fading or discoloration over the years. Stick to high-end quartz brands that use premium UV stable materials.
Dramatic Temperature Changes
Exposing quartz to extreme temperature swings over and over, such as very hot cookware followed by cold liquids, could theoretically impact resin stability and fading resistance over time. But this effect is likely negligible with normal use.
Cleaning With Harsh Chemicals
Avoid cleaning quartz with harsh chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners, etc. These can damage the resin binders and pigments and affect appearance. Stick to recommended Quartz cleaners and techniques.
With proper care and quality quartz, these factors are unlikely to cause significant fading issues. Quartz maintains its color very well compared to other options.
Maintaining Your Quartz Countertops
While quartz resists fading on its own, you can take steps to keep your countertops looking like new:
- Use mild soap and water for routine cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Rinse spills as soon as possible, especially from acidic substances like juice or wine.
- Use trivets or mats under hot pots and pans. Avoid direct high heat exposure.
- Clean up spills from oils, dyes or other staining products quickly. Don’t let them sit.
- Limit sunlight exposure with curtains or blinds if the countertop gets prolonged direct sun.
With these easy care tips, your quartz countertops will stay beautiful and color-true for many years of use. Take time to properly clean and care for your counters.
FAQ About Fading in Quartz Countertops
Does quartz lose its shine or become dull over time?
Quartz has an inherent non-porous shine and does not depend sealers or polishing like natural stone. It retains its luster very well over decades unless exposed to damage like cuts or scratches.
Do lighter quartz colors fade more than darker colors?
Lighter quartz colors like whites and creams may show slight discoloration from UV light over many years. However, all quartz resists fading very well due to stable pigments. Darker colors are very resistant to visible fading.
Does heat cause quartz to fade?
Excessive direct high heat can technically impact quartz color over time. But under normal use quartz withstands heat very well. Always use trivets and avoid direct high heat exposure.
Should you wax or seal quartz counters to prevent fading?
No, quartz does not require sealing or waxing which can actually build up on the surface. Quartz is non-porous and factory-finished to resist fading. Sealers or waxes are not needed.
Does using cleaners like bleach damage or fade quartz?
You should not use harsh cleaners like bleach that can damage resin binders or pigments. Stick to mild soapy water or specific quartz cleaners. Avoid chemicals that can fade or discolor the material.
Conclusion
Quartz countertops are engineered with advanced resins and pigments designed to maintain rich consistent color for many years. While no material is completely fade-proof, high-quality quartz resists fading, discoloration and dulling very well under typical indoor conditions and daily use. With proper maintenance and care, quartz countertops retain their like-new appearance for decades in most homes. For beauty and durability, quartz is an excellent choice.