Quartz countertops are popular choices for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, visual appeal, and ease of maintenance. However, some homeowners wonder if quartz countertops scratch easily. Understanding the scratch-resistance properties of quartz can help you decide if it is the right material for your home.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. Quartz countertops are non-porous, so they resist staining and do not require sealing like natural stone. Here are some key facts about quartz:
- Quartz contains over 90% crushed quartz crystals, one of the hardest minerals on earth.
- Polymer resins bind the crushed quartz particles together into a durable, non-porous slab.
- Pigments added during manufacturing provide the color and pattern.
- Slabs are molded in factories under intense heat and pressure.
- The resins make quartz more flexible and resistant to cracks and chips.
The high quartz content gives the material its strength and durability. The resins make quartz more flexible, preventing cracks and chips. This combination results in a very durable surface able to stand up to daily wear and tear.
How Scratch-Resistant is Quartz?
Quartz registers around 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, which ranks a mineral’s ability to resist scratches. For comparison, diamonds rate 10 and granite is between 6-7. This high rating means quartz is more scratch-resistant than marble (3), soapstone (1-2), laminate (2-3) and solid surface materials like Corian® (3-4).
However, quartz is not scratch-proof. Its polymer resins make it more prone to scratching than pure natural stone. Minor scratches can occur over time with regular use. But quartz won’t scratch as easily as softer surfaces and is more scratch-resistant overall.
What Can Scratch Quartz Countertops?
Quartz is highly scratch-resistant, but not impervious to scratches. The following items can scratch quartz if dragged across the surface under pressure:
- Knives or sharp blades – Cutting directly on the quartz dulls knife edges and can leave scratches. Use a cutting board instead.
- Pots, pans or cooking utensils – Avoid placing hot cookware directly on quartz. Using a trivet can prevent scratches.
- Abrasive pads or scrubbing brushes – Scouring pads and stiff brushes may scratch, depending on the quartz brand. Use a non-abrasive cleaning sponge instead.
- Hard materials like glass, metal or stone – Never cut or chop on your quartz counters.
- Sand, dirt or grit – Wipe up spills promptly to avoid abrasive particles scratching the surface.
- Furniture and appliances – Don’t drag furniture or appliances across your counters during remodeling or cleaning. Lift items instead.
Quartz is most prone to scratching during kitchen use involving metal utensils, cutlery or appliances. Using cutting boards and trivets can reduce the risk substantially. Keep counters free of debris and lift heavy objects instead of sliding them to be gentle on quartz surfaces.
Do All Quartz Brands Scratch Easily?
Not necessarily. The durability of quartz varies somewhat between brands. Certain brand formulations are more scratch-resistant than others.
Here are some factors that affect a quartz brand’s scratch resistance:
- Quartz content – Higher natural quartz content increases hardness and scratch resistance. Premium brands tout quartz content over 90%.
- Resin formula – Brands use differing resin formulas. Some resins create harder, denser slabs more resistant to scratches.
- Pigments used – Colored quartz relies on pigments for its hue. Some pigments reduce surface hardness slightly.
- Surface finish – Brands use different techniques to polish the quartz slabs, impacting hardness. A smoother finish is more scratch-resistant.
- Thickness – Thicker quartz slabs tend to be less prone to scratches over time. Most brands offer 2 or 3 cm thick options.
Higher-end quartz brands engineered for maximum durability generally resist scratching better than lower-priced products. Research quartz brands for real customer reviews on scratch resistance before deciding.
Do Scratches Impact the Function of Quartz?
Normal scratches accumulated over time generally don’t impact the function or integrity of your quartz counters. Shallow surface marks mainly affect appearance. But quartz is still structurally sound and hygienic despite light scratches.
Minor scratches are an aesthetic concern, not a functional one. They do not make quartz countertops less sanitary or usable over time. Resin within the slabs continues protecting the surface from stains, chips and damage.
However, deeper scratches or gouges that penetrate the quartz surface could harbor bacteria if not repaired. Avoid using metal utensils directly on quartz to prevent functional damage requiring professional repair.
Can You Remove Scratches from Quartz?
You cannot completely remove or repair deep scratches yourself. But shallow, minor scratches can be minimized to restore quartz’s appearance. Here are some DIY remedies to reduce noticeable scratches:
- Polishing kit – Specialized quartz polishing kits use abrasives to buff out very fine scratches. Follow kit directions carefully.
- Baking soda paste – Make a paste with baking soda and water and gently rub on scratches using a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly.
- Household cleaner – Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner specifically formulated for quartz and rub out marks with a soft sponge or rag.
- Hydrogen peroxide – Apply peroxide to scratches using a cotton ball. Let it bubble for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
- Olive oil – Dab olive oil on a soft cloth and rub into scratches in a circular motion. Wipe the area clean afterwards.
These methods may reduce the appearance of very shallow scratches. But be careful not to scrub too hard or you could make scratches worse. For deeper marks or damage, hire a professional fabricator to re-polish your quartz counters.
How to Prevent Scratches on Quartz Countertops
Quartz is quite scratch-resistant with proper care. Here are some tips to prevent marks and scratches:
- Always use cutting boards, trivets and pan pads to protect the surface.
- Wipe up spills immediately to avoid prolonged exposure to acids or debris.
- Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads.
- Don’t place hot items like curling irons or flat irons directly on the quartz.
- Lift heavy objects and appliances instead of dragging across counters.
- Follow the manufacturer’s care and maintenance guidelines.
- Avoid using quartz polish or cleaning products not specifically formulated for engineered stone.
- Re-seal quartz every 1-2 years with a penetrating sealer made for quartz surfaces.
With some basic care and precautions in the kitchen, quartz countertops are very resistant to scratching and everyday wear. Their durability and stain-resistance make quartz an excellent choice for households with children or frequent entertainers.
Are Quartz Countertops a Good Choice If You Want to Avoid Scratches?
Quartz is more scratch-resistant than many other popular countertop materials, making it a wise choice to minimize visible marks. Here’s how quartz compares:
More scratch-resistant than:
- Marble
- Limestone
- Travertine
- Concrete
- Laminate
- Solid surface (Corian®)
- Wood
- Tile
- Stainless steel
Less scratch-resistant than:
- Granite
- Gemstones
Among engineered stone options, quartz is harder and less prone to scratching than materials like recycled glass or concrete. Natural stone like granite resists scratches better than quartz, but requires more maintenance.
Overall, quartz offers excellent scratch resistance compared to alternatives, combined with easy care and antibacterial properties. Those wanting worry-free, durable counters will appreciate quartz’s ability to conceal normal wear and tear. Shoppers should compare warranties; premium quartz brands offer 15-year or lifetime limited warranties.
FAQ About Quartz Scratch Resistance
Here are answers to some common questions homeowners have about quartz scratching:
Does quartz scratch like granite or marble?
Quartz does not scratch as easily as softer marbles or limestones. It scratches slightly easier than granite. But quartz is less prone to chipping or staining than natural stone.
Is quartz more scratch resistant than granite?
Granite is harder than quartz on the Mohs scale. Polished granite resists scratches better than quartz. However, some quartz has high percentages of quartz crystals, rivaling granite’s density. Both offer good scratch protection.
What is the most scratch resistant countertop material?
Natural stones like granite and gemstones are most scratch-resistant. Of engineered surfaces, quartz ranks highest for scratch resistance due to its hardness. Quartz is not impervious to scratches, but resists surface damage better than other fabricated countertops.
Can you scratch quartz with a knife?
Yes, dragging a knife tip across quartz can potentially scratch the surface. Avoid using knives directly on the countertop. Always use a cutting board to protect your quartz.
How long will quartz countertops last without scratches?
With proper care, minimal signs of wear should be evident for 15 years or longer. Higher priced quartz withstands daily use better than low-end brands. Following manufacturer’s care guidelines reduces the risk of scratches.
The Takeaway on Quartz Scratch Resistance
Quartz countertops do not scratch easily. Their durable composition makes them highly scratch-resistant for daily kitchen use. However, quartz can show minor scratches over time under regular use and abuse. Using cutting boards, trivets and cleaning properly keeps quartz looking pristine longer. Overall, quartz offers excellent scratch and scuff protection compared to other natural and engineered surfaces. Going with a quality quartz brand ensures optimal resistance to surface marks. With reasonable care, quartz countertops will stay looking like new for many years.