Quartz countertops have become incredibly popular in recent years due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and easy maintenance. But is quartz really as durable as claimed for use as a kitchen or bathroom countertop material? Let’s take a closer look at the durability factors of quartz.
What is Quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made from crushed quartz particles combined with resin and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-94%. The remaining 6-10% is polymer resins that bind the material together.
The resin makes quartz non-porous, so it does not need to be sealed. It also makes quartz more flexible and resistant to cracks and chips.
Is Quartz Durable?
Quartz is an extremely durable material that stands up well to daily wear and tear. Here are some of the factors that make quartz so durable:
Scratch Resistance
Quartz has a rating of 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, which means it is highly scratch resistant. Only diamonds and sapphires are harder. This makes quartz very resistant to knives and scratches.
Stain Resistance
The non-porous nature of quartz makes it stain resistant. Spills and messes can be easily wiped away without leaving a trace. Quartz does not need to be sealed to prevent stains.
Heat Resistance
Quartz can withstand temperatures up to 300°F without damage. This high heat tolerance makes it suitable for use around stoves and ovens. Sudden temperature changes do not affect quartz.
Chips and Cracks
Quartz is engineered to be more flexible than natural stone. This makes it more resistant to chipping and cracking. Chips are confined to the surface and do not compromise the structural integrity.
Impact Resistance
Quartz has a high resistance to impacts, such as pots and pans being dropped on the surface. Dropping a heavy object is unlikely to crack or chip quartz.
Chemical Resistance
Quartz has excellent resistance to acids, alkalis, and solvents. Everyday cleaning products do not affect quartz.
How Durable is Quartz Compared to Other Countertops?
Quartz is more durable than marble, granite, laminate, wood, and tile. Here’s how it compares:
- More scratch resistant than marble and granite
- Less porous than marble and granite
- More resistant to stains than marble, granite, and wood
- More heat resistant than laminate and wood
- More impact resistant than tile and laminate
- More chemical resistant than marble, granite, and laminate
The only material that matches or exceeds quartz in durability is stainless steel. However, stainless steel lacks the aesthetic appeal and variety that quartz offers.
Real World Durability of Quartz
In real world use cases, quartz stands up remarkably well. According to Consumer Reports tests, quartz shows minimal signs of use after exposure to lemon juice, wine, grape juice, nails, scissors, paint remover, ink, and makeup.
Quartz is unaffected by typical impacts from pots, pans, and dropped utensils in busy kitchens. The resilience of the material prevents cracks, chips, and scratches under normal residential use.
Professional fabricators report that quartz requires very little maintenance even after years of constant use in kitchens.
Ensuring Long-Term Durability
While quartz is extremely durable, following a few best practices will keep your countertops looking like new for decades:
- Use cutting boards and trivets. Never cut directly on the counter.
- Clean spills quickly to prevent staining.
- Avoid exposing the counter to strong chemicals.
- Have professionals install and repair the countertop. DIY repairs can affect durability.
- Inspect countertops annually and re-seal any cracks or seams that develop.
- Consider a honed finish quartz for a lower-maintenance option.
Is Quartz Worth It for Durability?
The superior durability of quartz makes it worth the investment for countertops that can handle years of regular use without showing signs of wear. The durability and stain resistance also make quartz a great option for busy kitchens and bathrooms.
With proper care and maintenance, quartz countertops will retain their like-new appearance for the lifetime of your home. The peace of mind knowing your countertops can withstand heavy use is one of the key factors making quartz a top choice for homeowners today.
FAQ about Quartz Countertop Durability
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the durability and care of quartz countertops:
Is quartz more durable than granite?
Yes, quartz is more durable than natural granite. Quartz is less porous than granite, making it more stain and scratch resistant. The resin binders make quartz more flexible, preventing chips and cracks.
Can you cut on quartz countertops?
It’s not recommended. Always use a cutting board on quartz countertops to prevent dulling the surface. The integrity of the countertop is not compromised by cutting, but it will damage the appearance over time.
Does quartz stain easily?
No. The non-porous nature of quartz makes it very stain resistant. Spills and messes wipe away easily. Some staining agents like wine, oil, and dyes can stain quartz if left for prolonged time periods.
Is quartz heat resistant?
Yes. Quartz can withstand temperatures up to 300°F. You can place hot pots and pans on it without issue. Prolonged high heat may eventually cause some discoloration.
Can quartz crack or chip?
Quartz is engineered to be flexible, making it resistant to cracks and chips. Impact from heavy objects may cause chips, however. Cracks are usually contained to the surface and do not impact structural integrity.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
No. Quartz does not require sealing. It is an impervious non-porous material. Sealers cannot penetrate quartz and remain on the surface. Professional repairs may require use of a sealer.
How long does quartz last?
With proper care and maintenance, quartz countertops typically last 25-30 years before needing replacement. Some quartz tops have lasted 50+ years in residential settings before visible signs of deterioration.
Is quartz environmentally friendly?
Quartz contains high percentages of natural quartz. Minimal VOC-emitting resins are used in modern quartz. It is considered an environmentally-responsible surface due to durability and long lifespans reducing replacement rate.
Conclusion
Quartz stands apart from other countertop materials with its unmatched durability. The scratch, stain, heat, and impact resistance make quartz a practical option for busy kitchens. While no material is truly indestructible, quartz comes remarkably close, maintaining its integrity and appearance for decades after installation. Following the proper care guidelines will ensure your quartz countertops remain in immaculate condition for the lifetime of your home. The durability and longevity of quartz make it a worthy investment for homeowners who value performance, beauty, and low maintenance.