What’s low-maintenance, yet stylish, and almost indestructible when it comes to countertops?
If you guessed quartz then you’re correct.
Quartz countertops may be trendy right now, but there’s a reason for it.
In this ultimate guide we’ll break down everything you need to know about quartz countertops and if they’re right for your home and lifestyle.
QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS | YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE
What Is Quartz?
First, we need to understand what makes quartz different than other countertops like granite and marble.
Quartz is typically referred to as an “engineered stone” (mostly ground quartz mixed with binders such as polyester resins and pigment to give that unique color) which means it’s engineered in a factory—unlike granite which is mined.
Not all quartz is created equal and there are companies that use pure quartz in a high concentration so it can lean more towards a natural stone.
Quartz Countertop Durability and Maintenance
This countertop is widely known for its high durability and low maintenance.
If your lifestyle demands an indestructible countertop (hello, kids and tools, and a full daily life), or you just don’t want to replace countertops very often…welcome to life with quartz.
Not only is it waterproof, but it can also resist most stains, heat, and even mildew, mold, and bacteria.
Unlike granite—which needs to be sealed almost yearly—quartz is non-porous, therefore doesn’t require sealing and the only maintenance is daily cleaning/wiping of surface.
Quartz Countertop Cleaning
Even though quartz can be low maintenance, here are some tips to help with spills, grease, and stains along the way.
- Use a soft cloth (microfiber works), mild dish soap, and warm water to wipe countertops as needed throughout the day.
- Clean any spills quickly—especially if it’s red wine or a dark color.
- Use a degreaser that’s quartz friendly. This is where reading labels come in handy. A good rule of thumb for quartz: always read cleaning supply labels.
- Keep a putty knife handy for dried spills. Use a putty knife to gently scrape any buildup from paint, food, nail polish, dirt, and even gum.
- When in doubt talk to your local quartz company—or wherever you purchased your countertops—to find out which surface cleaner is best for your quartz.
And don’t forget about Goo Gone®⏤it can be an excellent product for unexpected stains like permanent markers.
Quartz Countertop Damage Prevention
• Don’t use harsh abrasives or cleaners.
Extreme alkaline or acidic solutions such as drain and oven cleaners, nail polish remover, turpentine, and bleach can damage the surface. Make sure what you’re using is quartz-friendly!
• Avoid extreme heat.
While quartz can withstand some heat, for the longevity of your countertop, it’s best practice not to test those limits. Sudden or extreme temperature change or exposure to heat that’s prolonged (like a hot pan sitting on the counter) may cause quartz to crack.
When it comes to heat, the best scenario is to give your skillets, hot pans, and crock pots a place to sit on mats and trivets.
• Use a cutting board.
Your knives will most likely become dull if you use the countertop as a cutting board. Although it’s scratch-resistant, quartz isn’t completely immune to scratching.
• Keep quartz indoors.
Quartz is best utilized indoors. Splitting, warping, and fading can all occur when quartz is in direct sunlight every day.
Quartz for Home Design
Because quartz comes in a wide range of colors and those hints of sparkle, it can be easy to pick out what would potentially match your home design décor.
One of the best ways to narrow down your options is to gather all the quartz samples and play with them in your home.
What you see in-store may look completely different once at home and vice versa. Lighting, cabinet, and kitchen color can all affect how the countertop actually looks.
You can narrow down your top three choices and really hone in from there.
This will also be helpful if you want to mix and match countertops with different color cabinets, backsplash, or even flooring.
Quartz Price
Not including installation, quartz can run from $68 per square foot and up.
Keep in mind prices can vary due to where the material is sourced, how it’s shipped, and tariffs.
These prices can be competitive with any luxury countertop like marble and granite.
Quartz can be perfect for a household that doesn’t want to worry about maintenance or be too careful with this countertop option.
From easy clean-up to versatile designs and colors—quartz may be a perfect match for your lifestyle and next home design project.
Have any questions?
Need help with your home design project?
Stop by the Sol Granite showroom today and let us help you bring your design dreams to reality!
Sol Granite
4804 Dillon Drive (Behind Texas Roadhouse)
Pueblo, CO 81008
719-544-3085
