Looking to heighten the beauty of your home? Quartz is a highly desired countertop material that is known for being stylish and durable. Being that quartz is man-made, you can also customize the colors and patterns of your quartz countertop. But is quartz a worthwhile material for your kitchen or bathroom? How long do quartz countertops last? Today, you are going to learn about quartz and about its life expectancy. Let’s get started.
What is Quartz?
As mentioned previously, quartz is an engineered material made by combining minerals, quartz, pigments, and resin. Thus, quartz countertops are 93% natural stone. Interestingly, quartz was first created by an Italian company, Breton. Most quartz counter brands have been inspired by the original creation, including DuPont, Cambria, and Cosentino (Silestone).
There are unlimited colors and patterns available that make quartz look like an imitation of marble or granite. However, there are seams in the quartz counter that would not be there with marble or granite. The non-porous surface is also durable and rarely scratches, making it ideal for high-traffic kitchens. Since quartz is a sought-after material for countertops, it also increases the value of your home.
Pros of Quartz Countertops
- Hard and strong material that can last for over a decade
- Glossy sheen
- Does not require any sealing like marble or granite
- Available in many colors and patterns
- Easy to clean with soap, a cloth, and water
- Stain and crack resistant
Cons of Quartz Countertops
- Expensive
- Comes with seams
- Requires professional installation
- Not heat resistant
How Long Do Quartz Countertops Last?
Unless your quartz counters are tossed into a tornado or beaten with a sledgehammer, these counters can last for many years. On average, quartz countertops last between 10-15 years, but with routine maintenance, quartz may last a lifetime. Since man-made materials do not break down, they are nearly indestructible.
However, if you want quartz countertops that are going to require little to no maintenance and last for decades, you need to choose a premium brand. A variety of materials can be tossed into the quartz during production. Some materials are more durable than others. Furthermore, quartz countertops are not resistant to heat; you can easily damage quartz by putting a hot pan or curling iron directly on the surface.
Are Quartz Countertops Durable?
One of the reasons quartz is resistant to chips, scratches, dents, and breaks are the composition of the material. Diamond, corundum, and topaz are the only three materials that can top quartz in terms of hardness. This adds to the longevity of the counters. Since most of the material is made with 93% quartz, the properties of the natural stone are retained.
However, many people believe that this makes quartz invulnerable to marks. If you want your quartz to look as good as it did the day it was installed, be sure to clean the surface regularly. Also, use cutting boards, trivets, and pot holders whenever you are cooking in the kitchen.
Maintaining Quartz Countertops
If you want to ensure that your quartz countertops last for 10, 20, or even longer, then you need to maintain them. Quartz counters are low maintenance, yes, but they do need to be cleaned and disinfected. One of the main enemies of quartz is grime. Although the stone is non-porous, viruses and bacteria can still thrive on the surface. Be sure to consistently wipe down your quartz countertops with warm water, mild soap, and a soft, non-abrasive cloth.
Furthermore, quartz counters are susceptible to stains after spills, such as coffee, tomato sauce, red wine, tea, and other liquids. The good news is that quartz counters and vanities are resistant to stains. As long as you clean up any spills quickly, you do not have to worry about discoloration and marks on your quartz countertops. To remove stains, you can use rubbing alcohol or a glass cleaner.
Avoid cutting, chopping, or slicing food directly on the countertop to prevent any nicks and scratches. Cutting boards should be used to prevent heavy scratching from occurring.
Looking For Quartz Countertops For Your Home?
Quartz is one of the most durable countertops you can purchase for your home. Nearly maintenance-free, quartz is an aesthetically pleasing material that will last 10 to 15 years or longer. The bottom line is that quartz can meet your demands. Call in Marble Concepts to cut and install your stunning quartz countertops today. Get your kitchen or bathrooms renovated with quartz today. Give us a call at 215-396-7393 today to learn more.
