Avoid These 4 Mistakes with Your New Quartz Countertops
Whether you recently had quartz countertops installed in your kitchen or are planning to do so, you'll enjoy the beauty and durability of this engineered stone. Meanwhile, quartz is among the easiest countertop materials to care for—so you can enjoy your quartz countertops for many years to come. However, there are some common care mistakes that you'll want to be aware of so that you can avoid accidental damage to your new counters.
1. Using the Wrong Cleaners
You'll need to be picky about the cleaning products you use on your quartz countertops. That's because quartz is made using a special bonding resin that can be broken down by harsh chemical cleaners over time. Specifically, it's a good idea to avoid any acidic and alkaline cleaners that have been known to break down resins. Instead, opt for a cleaner that is formulated for use on quartz—and take care to test any new cleaning products in an inconspicuous space, just to be safe.
2. Mistaking "Heat-Resistant" for "Heat-Proof"
Quartz is known for its heat-resistant qualities, which means it won't become easily damaged by indirect contact with hot appliances, cookware, and utensils. Still, this does not mean that quartz is entirely immune to damage from extreme heat. You should not place any hot items directly onto the surface of your quartz countertops. Instead, use a trivet or layer some dish towels down on your counters before setting down a hot pan or baking sheet.
3. Mistaking "Scratch-Resistant" for "Scratch-Proof"
The same concept applies to quartz countertops and their "scratch-resistant" qualities. It is unlikely that you'll scratch or damage your quartz countertops if you slice a few strawberries directly on the surface a time or two. However, if you're repeatedly using your countertops as a cutting board, you may run into surface scratches over time. To avoid this, simply get into the habit of using a cutting board.
4. Forgetting to Clean Up Spills
Last but not least, be diligent about cleaning up spills on your quartz countertops. While this material is unlikely to stain when spills are wiped up quickly, quartz (especially lighter-colored quartz) can stain when stains are left to sit for a long time. This is especially true with deep-colored liquids, such as red wine.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can keep your new quartz countertops looking their best for many years to come. Likewise, you'll avoid costly damage while maintaining the function of your kitchen.