Can Quartz Crack, Discolor, Or Warp?

Serving Portland OR, Vancouver WA, and the Oregon Coast

Are you considering quartz for your kitchen countertops?

If so, it’s worth taking a closer look because quartz provides excellent options for color, texture, pattern, and finish. It’s also affordable and stylish. One of the first questions you’re probably asking yourself as you look at quartz is whether or not it holds up as well as granite, or other materials used for kitchen counters.

Let’s take a look at some common questions about quartz.

What Exactly Is Quartz? – Quartz is similar to granite in that it is a hard material. However, unlike granite, it is manmade.

Granite is 100% natural stone and is quarried from the ground. Quartz is made of natural quartz, as well as resin and color pigments. Because it is manmade, quartz offers a uniform look.

Is Quartz Scratch-Resistant? – Scratches and chips are always a concern for countertops, and the good news is that quartz is very scratch and chip-resistant. Since it’s engineered stone, its polymers and resins give it a little more flexibility and durability than natural stone.

Is Quartz Crack-Resistant? – Again, quartz is extremely durable. High-quality quartz is virtually crack-resistant, but lesser quality quartz can crack or shatter if exposed to extreme cold, such as an ice bag left on the counter. The same goes for extreme heat. Sudden, drastic changes in temperature may crack a quartz surface.

Additionally, the sudden impact of dropping heavy objects on quartz countertops may also cause them to crack. Know that cracking is not easily repaired.

Will Quartz Warp? – Again, high-quality quartz is more resistant to heat, cold, and UV rays. But lesser-quality quartz may warp if exposed to extreme heat. Sustained heat or sudden changes in temperature may cause the surface to warp . Your best bet is always to use a trivet or pad when setting pans and hot dishes down on your quartz countertop.

Will Quartz Discolor? – Unlike a material like marble, quartz is non-porous, which makes it highly resistant to stains.

However, it’s not impervious to them. Any fluid left standing on your counters can cause stains or hazing, including water. Sudden changes in temperatures may cause quartz to become discolored, which re-emphasizes the need for using hot pads and trivets under hot pans, slow cookers, or even electric skillets. You should never place a hot pan directly from your oven or stovetop onto your quartz surface.

Quartz is, for the most part, stain-proof because liquids can’t penetrate its surface. However, it’s still important to clean up messes quickly so that you preserve the quartz’s original color. Use soap and water or a mild household cleaner. Like cracking, stains are not easily corrected.

The bottom line is that quartz provides outstanding durability, easy maintenance, and a beautiful counter that gives your kitchen a high-end, modern design.

Want to learn more about quartz and how it compares to granite? Download our FREE Granite & Quartz Material Guide. If you are ready to get stunning quartz or granite counters installed in your kitchen, contact Crowley’s to get a free quote.

Back to Quartz Countertops