Quartz counters are a popular choice among homeowners thanks to their beauty, durability, and uniqueness.
One reason (of many) people choose quartz counters time and time again is because of their low-maintenance qualities and their resistance to stains. While these counters are not completely stain-proof, they are, however, stain-resistant and work hard to stand up against everyday spills and stains.
Let’s take a deep-dive look at the truth about quartz countertops.
Stains and Quartz Counters
Natural stones are incredibly porous, making them highly susceptible to stains because their surfaces are easily penetrable, leading to permanent stains. This is why natural stones, such as marble, need to be sealed regularly. Alternatively, quartz countertop surfaces are virtually non-porous, thanks to their resin, requiring zero sealing and making it stain-resistant.
As you can see, quartz countertops a much more stain-resistant than other countertop materials, like natural stones, including marble. This is because quartz is an engineered stone that is made up of nearly 90% ground quartz, a natural, hard mineral, while the rest contains resins, polymers, and pigments. It is the resin that makes quartz “superior” to marble and other natural stones; however, there are some disadvantages to the resin.
The resins, polymers, and pigments in quartz countertops can react with chemicals that can lead to discolored spots that look like white or bleach stains. Because of this, it is essential to avoid using alkaline cleaners and detergents with high acid levels on your quartz countertops. In addition to being susceptible to reactionary stains, your counters can also become stained by substances or materials that have dried onto the counter’s surface, like wax, ink, polish, and dried foods.
How to Avoid Stains on Your Counters
Thankfully avoiding stains on your quartz countertops is relatively easy. Simply limit direct contact with liquids as much as possible, and quickly clean up any spills when they occur. Your counters will look better longer when messes are addressed immediately. Another way you can keep your counters looking brand new and stain-free is to avoid using your countertops like cutting boards.
In areas that are frequently wet, like around your sink and faucet, you may find hard water stains beginning to appear. You can easily prevent these unsightly spots by mopping up the wet areas with a clean towel before they can dry on their own. Darker quartz surfaces can become discolored when exposed to direct heat. Because of this, it’s important to never place hot cookware directly onto the countertop and always to use trivets or a potholder to avoid these issues.
Contact Intermountain Stone & Marble
If you want to add quartz counters to your kitchen or bathroom, contact the experts at Intermountain Stone & Marble. By choosing our counters from Intermountain Stone & Marble, you choose high-quality, affordable, and elegant countertops. We proudly work hard to stay within our clients’ budget and timeline. Contact our experts for samples and a free estimate today, and let us show you the benefits of investing in high-quality counters for your home. We proudly serve Salt Lake City, Taylorsville, and Murray in Utah.
