Although other stones have been popular choices for surfaces in the past, quartz is quickly becoming a leading option for kitchen countertops and other places where a hard and virtually indestructible surface is required. Quartz offers the natural stone look that so many people desire, while providing colors and hardness that only manufacturing can offer. Let's take a closer look at quartz as a material, and how you can care for it.
Quartzite is the natural stone that can be found all over the world. Quartzite is formed when quartz-rich sandstone is exposed to high heat and pressure over a long period of time. Natural quartz does come in a variety of colors, but it is fairly dull and boring. This is where engineering and manufacturing quartz in a factory comes in.
Engineered quartz is factory-produced and is made by combining 93-95 percent natural quartz with resins, binding agents, and pigments. This enhanced stone comes in vibrant colors and can be matched perfectly to the specific design of the surrounding space.
Quartz is an extremely hard and durable stone, moreso even than granite. It is not porous in nature, which means it is literally indestructible with regular wear and tear.
While most people will automatically think of kitchen countertops when you mention quartz, there are actually a lot of other ways you can utilize this hard and beautiful stone. Due to its nonporous properties, quartz is an excellent choice for bar tops and dining room tabletops. It can also be used for bathroom as a vanity, a shower, or a tub surround.
The stone is known for being heat resistant, so it can be a good option for around your fireplace. It is also used in commercial buildings for lobbies and walkways.
Quartz is nonporous in nature due to the resin binders that are combined during the manufacturing process. As a result of this, mold, mildew, and bacteria cannot penetrate the surface, making it extremely sanitary and a great option for families with children. Quartz is easy to maintain and really only needs to be cleaned with mild soap and water.
It does not ever need to be resealed, and it will resist stains from most liquids, such as wine, vinegar, tea, lemon juice, and soda, or fruits and vegetables.
For spills, it is important to wipe them up as soon as possible before they have a chance to dry. Fresh spills can be easily wiped up with mild soap and a soft cloth. For spills that have dried, or those that are really strong, you can use a glass cleaner with a non-abrasive sponge.
While daily cleaning is the most important, it is also necessary to perform a deep cleaning routine at regular intervals. This consists of spraying a good amount of non-abrasive surface cleaner on the area and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then wipe it away with a non-scratch sponge or a soft cloth.
As mentioned above, it is important that you use mild soap and water on your quartz surfaces. You should never use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch and dull the surface. If you find that you need more cleanser than typical soap will provide, make sure you find one that is specifically designed for use in quartz.
There are some other liquids that should not be exposed to the quartz surface, such as highly acidic liquids or bleach, and if either of these spill on the quartz it is important that they are immediately cleaned up.
While quartz is indeed heat- and scorch-resistant, the resin that is used in manufactured quartz is not. The resin that is mixed during the process is a type of plastic which is prone to melting if exposed to high temperatures.
A sudden change in temperature, such as a hot pan being set on the counter, or prolonged exposure to heat from a pot left in the countertop can cause the quartz to crack. It is vital to always use a trivet or hot pad when you have a hot pan or dish.
Finally, it is necessary to always use a cutting board when slicing or dicing on your quartz surface. Quartz is known for being extremely hard, but it is not hard enough to withstand the effects of knives. Avoid scratches and cuts in your surface by utilizing a cutting board.
Quartz is a beautiful material that comes in endless colors and a wide variety of patterns. It is extremely hard and durable, and is virtually impossible to damage. Quartz is nonporous in nature, so no mold, mildew, bacteria, or odor-causing materials can penetrate it. It does not require much maintenance and can literally be cleaned using just mild soap and water.
By cleaning the surface daily and following our list of things to avoid, you are guaranteed to take care of your quartz surface and ensure it lasts a lifetime.
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