Need a worktop that can stand up to the spills, bangs, and scratches you’re sure to make?
Then what you’re looking for is called quartz.
Quartz is very durable and can withstand just about anything. But when it comes to heat, things get a little more tricky.
Take a look at this quartz worktops guide to find out if quarts is really heatproof.
What Are Quartz Worktops Made of?
Quartz is a man-made material constructed of quartz stone, resins, polymers, and pigments. Though 90% of the worktop is made of quartz, the 10% of other materials makes the surface extremely durable.
This is also what makes it stronger than its counterpart granite (also made of quartz stone). Granite is made of natural stone, which means it is more susceptible to damages and needs a lot of maintenance. It can also only be found in natural colors. Because of the pigments in a quartz worktop, quartz can be any color you want.
But Just Because Quartz Is Durable Doesn’t Mean It Is Heatproof
Let’s be perfectly clear, quartz can stand up to a lot of things, but that doesn’t mean it can stand up to all kinds of heat.
You’ve probably heard that quartz is heatproof, but is a bit of a quartz myth blown too far out of proportion. Even though quartz can withstand some heat, it is not completely heatproof.
So Is Quartz Heatproof or Not?
Quartz is heat resistant.
The stone itself can tolerate a high degree of heat, but the resin used in the quartz cannot. Anything over 150 degrees Fahrenheit can permanently damage your counter.
If the resin is heated too high, it can discolor and turn white. When this happens, it is difficult, and in some cases impossible, to repair.
You should always use hot pads and trivets to protect your worktop. Though the occasional hot pan won’t burn your surface, it’s always better to stay on the safe side of things.
Is This True of All Quartz?
Because it is a manmade material, the amount of resin used will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. This means different types of quartz can withstand different temperatures of heat depending on where and how it was made.
Before you buy quartz, you should talk to the manufacturer about how heat resistant the material is.
So Does Every Manufacturer Make Quartz Differently?
Yes and no.
The tools, machines, and methods to make quartz worktops are the same for pretty much every manufacturer, but the exact chemical mixture and process makes all quartz slightly different.
Does Quartz Make a Good Worktop?
Just because it’s not completely heatproof doesn’t mean quartz isn’t a good worktop material. In fact, because of its durability, it’s one of the best countertops you can get.
Take a look at some other benefits of a quartz worktop.
Quartz Is Hard to Scratch
Quartz is difficult to scratch, but that does not mean it cannot be scratched.
That said, quartz is a pretty indestructible material. You’ll have to try pretty to hard to actually give it a good scratch. The best ways to avoid scratching is to keep from dragging heavy items over the surface, especially ceramic pans.
If you do manage to scratch the surface, clean off the sandy grit and call a professional. Scratches, unlike burns, can usually be repaired.
Quartz Doesn’t Stain Easily
Quartz is a non-porous material, meaning it won’t absorb spills and stain. These kinds of worktops don’t even require any kind of sealing because the absorption rate is so low.
So spilling a cup of coffee, food, or most anything else won’t be much of a problem.
That said, exposure to solvents can damage quartz worktops, which can make it stain more easily. If you spill things like paint on your quartz, make sure you clean it up right away to make sure your worktop stays in good condition.
Quartz Isn’t Overly Expensive
Again, sometimes the price gets blown out of proportion, so you might have heard the opposite.
But in reality, quartz is about the same price as a mid-range granite countertop. Though that may still be a sum of money, it’s not more expensive than other similar worktops.
Quartz Will Last Forever
Okay, so not forever exactly, but it will last a number of decades it properly cared for. A lot of quartz manufacturers offer warranties for 15 years to lifetime.
How Do I Keep My Quartz in Good Condition?
Unlike granite countertops, quartz countertops don’t need a lot of maintenance. But there are still several things you can do to keep your quartz in good condition.
Clean Your Worktop Everyday
Quartz is incredibly easy to clean, which is one reason it’s such a popular worktop material.
Don’t use abrasive cleaners or bleach. Instead, wipe the worktop down with a soft rag and a mild detergent. You should do this at least once a day, but you can do it several times throughout the day if you need.
Don’t Cut Directly on the Surface
If you’re chopping veggies or other foods, don’t do it directly on the counter. Remember, quartz is hard to scratch, but it can still scratch. Always use a cutting board or a place when you’re cutting with a knife.
Don’t Put Hot Items Directly on the Counter
We’re already mentioned this, but if you put items on your counter that are too hot, you can burn the resin in the quartz. This will make the resin discolor, giving the counter a whitish look.
To avoid this, just put hot pads or trivets under anything that’s warm, including pans, dishes, and utensils.
Choose the Right Countertop for You
Because of quartz’s durability and easy maintenance, it’s an ideal choice for many homeowners. You don’t have to do much with it, and it still looks nice.
You should note quartz worktops don’t do well outside. So if you’re looking for an outdoor worktop, you probably don’t want to choose quartz. The sun will cause the color to fade.
Still need a little more convincing that quartz is the best countertop for your home? Check out these six benefits of quartz countertops.
