Quartz Resource Guide

Quartz Countertops

Quartz Surface FAQs

Q. What is quartz? A. Quartz is a stone surface made from pure, natural quartz and offers all the natural beauty of quartz, with up to six times the strength and durability of granite. Mined quartz crystals, one of nature’s hardest materials, are combined with high-quality polyester resins and pigments producing a natural stone, without the high-maintenance, while making it resistant to heat, scratches and stains. Q. What is natural quartz? A. Quartz is one of the hardest components of natural granite. Quartz rates 7 out of 10 on Mohs Scale of Hardness. The only materials harder are diamonds, sapphires and topaz. The quartz crystals are used to create a beautiful and strong surface, that is highly scratch and impact resistant. Q. What are the advantages of quartz surface countertops? A. A high-performing surface, quartz is nonporous preventing unwelcome germs, bacteria and mildew. It does not require sealing, conditioning or polishing. quartz is also scratch and stain resistant, unlike alternative surface options, such as granite, tile and marble. Q. What quartz surface products are available? A. Quartz comes in stone slabs that vary in thickness. Each slab is fabricated into a variety of design applications. Quartz is available in 2cm (¾”) and 3cm (1 1/ 8 ”) thickness. Please check for availability in your market. Q. How do I care for my quartz surface countertop? A. Simply clean up any spills with soap and water. For routine cleaning, use a small amount of cleaner that is non-bleach and non-abrasive, along with warm water and a clean, damp cloth. Repeat as needed to keep the lustrous gloss and radiant sheen. Although quartz is resistant to stains, any type of spill should be cleaned as soon as possible. Any liquid spills, fruits, vegetables or other items should be wiped up and cleaned with soap and water. Q. How should I disinfect my quartz countertop? A. The following disinfectants are approved to use on an quartz countertop. • MonoFoil ™ D Multi-Surface Disinfectant. Reports to kill 99.9% of bacteria when used as directed. • Weiman ® Granite & Stone Daily Clean & Shine. Reports to kill 99.9% of germs and bacteria when used as directed. Q. Is quartz scratch resistant? A. Because quartz contains natural quartz crystals, the hardest components of natural granite, the surface is highly scratch and impact resistant. However, as with any surface, sudden impact, excessive force/pressure or misuse can damage the stone surface. Q. Can you cut directly on the quartz surface countertop? A. Although quartz is made of natural quartz crystals that are up to six times harder than granite, it is always recommended to use a cutting board to prevent any dulling of the surface. Q. Can hot plates and pans be placed directly on the quartz surface countertop? A. While quartz can withstand heat, we still recommend the use of hot pads, or trivets, when using cooking units such as electric frying pans, crock-pots or roaster ovens. Prolonged exposure to heat will damage your quartz surface countertop, and such damage is not covered by warranty.

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