Frequently Asked Quartz Questions
If you're thinking about quartz countertops for your kitchen or bathroom project, we've compiled answers to some of the most common questions we receive about the stone. If you have other questions, email us or reach out on Facebook.
Compare quartz and Granite Countertops
If you're thinking about quartz countertops for your kitchen or bathroom project, we've compiled answers to some of the most common questions we receive about the stone. If you have other questions, email us or reach out on Facebook.
- Is quartz a natural stone?
Quartz countertops are engineered. They are 90-95% natural ground quartz combined with polymers, resins and pigments. The resin binds the elements, creating a very strong, non-porous, and scratch resistant material. So quartz countertops are not natural in the sense that they are fabricated from large slabs straight from the ground the way marble and granite are. But, they are natural in the sense that most of the material comes from the earth. The term, “engineered stone” is frequently used to describe quartz. - Can you cut directly on quartz?
No. While quartz is highly scratch resistant, and will often withstand a cut from a knife, you should always use a cutting board. - Can you put a hot pan on a quartz countertop?
This can be risky. Quartz is heat resistant, but not completely heat proof. Prolonged exposure to high heat can damage or discolor the resin. Typically a coffee mug or warm plate is fine, but a hot pot or pan directly from the cooktop or oven is not. It is best to user a trivet or hot pad for any hot items you place on the countertop. - Does quartz stain easily?
Quartz countertops are one of the most stain resistant products you can buy. Under normal use, stains are rare. Some chemicals and solvents can damage the resin used in quartz, so it is important to review your manufacturer’s warranty. Avoid getting bleach, nail polish remover, cooking grease, marker, drain cleaner and highly acidic or highly alkaline chemicals on granite. These items can damage the resin and or discolor the pigments. If you do get any of these chemicals on your quartz countertops, be sure to clean them up quickly to avoid staining. Quick cleanup of any spill is a good rule to follow in general. - Do quartz countertops need to be sealed?
No. Quartz is non-porous and doesn't require sealing. - Can quartz be used outdoors?
No. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and UV rays can case quartz to fade. This is particularly true for darker colored stones. Fading is not an issue for typical indoor use. - How do you clean quartz?
Quartz countertops can be cleaned with a mild detergent and warm water. Just scrub lightly with a soft towel or microfiber cloth. Avoid rough cloths, and never use scrubbing brushes or steel wool on quartz. For hardened spills, you can scrape quartz with a soft plastic or rubber tool, for example a rubber spatula. Never use metal tools, and always be careful not to drive sharp edges into the stone as the resin can be damaged. Never use harsh or abrasive chemicals on quartz, this includes bleach, ammonia, and window cleaners with high pH levels. Your stone manufacturer may also suggest cleaning products for you specific stone. Check your warranty and installation details to see what other products are safe for your countertops. - Do Quartz countertops have seams?
Yes, unless the slab size and countertop design allows for single slab placement. However, when installed properly quartz seams aren't very noticeable. The design and layout process should include a discussion about where on the countertop the seams will be placed. Professional installation should mean that seams almost invisible.
- What are the benefits of quartz countertops?
Quartz is one of the most durable stones options available, it's less likely to scratch, crack and chip than many stones. Quartz non-porous and doesn't require sealing, so it's lower maintenance than granite and marble. Because the stone is made of aggregate stone material combined with resin and pigments, there are many color options. Quartz is comparably priced to medium grade granite and marble. - What colors do quartz countertops come in?
Because quartz is an engineered stone it is available in hundreds of colors and styles. The color and patterns can be altered by using different pigments and materials during the engineering process. Quartz can be designed to mimic other natural stones, such as granite or marble. Colors options range from bright whites and tan colors through dark browns and blacks and everything in between. - How much does Quartz cost?
Quartz is comparably priced to granite and marble. Expect about $45 to $100 per square foot installed. A typical kitchen with quartz countertops will cost between $1500 and $2500 for the stone and installation. Granite and marble can be much more expensive when considering high-end options and very rare and unique stones. Quartz is typically less expensive to maintain than other natural stones. - Are quartz countertops porous?
No. Quartz countertops are engineered with resin, making them non-porous. They will not collect bacteria, and typically don't etch or stain in the same manner marble or granite can. - Where can quartz be used?
Quartz is ideal for kitchen countertops, bathroom counters and vanity tops, fireplace surrounds, backsplashes, bar tops, desks and more. Quartz should not be used outdoors as extreme and long-term direct exposure to ultraviolet light can cause it to discolor with time. - Do quartz countertops show fingerprints?
Yes, but they are no worse than most other countertop finishes. A darker color and/or a more glossy finish will show more fingerprints than a matte finish and bright color. Quartz is very easy to clean, so more frequent wipe downs may be required if you opt for a very dark quartz.
- How do you get glue off of quartz?
It is possible to remove Gorilla Glue, Crazy Glue and other super glues from your quartz countertop. You just need three tools, and a gentle hand. See our Quartz vs. Glue blog.
Compare quartz and Granite Countertops
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