Is It Possible to Stain Quartz Countertops?

One of the myths surrounding quartz is related to its stain-resistant properties. While quartz does not stain as easily as marble, granite, and other natural-stone surfaces, it’s not completely impervious to staining. In fact, there are a couple of situations that can result in the permanent staining of quartz tiles or slabs. Homeowners who install quartz countertops in their kitchens or bathrooms should pay attention to the following information.

Why Quartz Is Stain-Resistant, Not Stain-Proof

Quartz is engineered to be a superior alternative to popular countertop choices such as granite. To this effect, one of its advantages is its low rate of absorption, which it owes to the resin binders used during the manufacturing process. Compared to natural stone, quartz is virtually nonporous, hence making it easier to care for than marble, a natural stone known to stain even from water. Nonetheless, up to 10 percent of quartz is made with artificial resins and pigments that are essentially petroleum byproducts, which means they will react when they come in contact with certain substances, and the reaction will be a stubborn stain in the case of permanent marker ink, sodium hydroxide, and some alkaline chemicals.

The Permanent Seal of Quartz Is Not Completely Impenetrable

While homeowners do not have to worry about sealing their quartz countertops, this does not mean stains will not form from time to time. Hard water and tea stains on quartz surfaces are fairly common, but since they do not penetrate as deep as unsealed natural stone, they are easier to remove. Homeowners who choose quartz slabs that resemble the creamy white look of Carrara marble are more likely to see occasional stains, which is why they should wipe down spills immediately.

Removing Stains from Quartz Countertops

Any spill that leaves a mark after being wiped down will require scrubbing with a non-abrasive cleaning pad and a generous amount of quartz cleaner. If the stain is caused by paint, nail polish, lipstick, wax, or food that has dried and formed a crust, scraping with a plastic knife or spatula should make the stain removal process easier.

Preventing Quartz Stains and Discoloration

As with natural stone, the best way to prevent quartz countertops from staining is to prevent direct contact with liquids as much as possible. Quartz countertops should not be used as cutting boards, and spills should be promptly cleaned up. Dark water stains may appear close to the sink if the countertops are constantly wet. In some cases, dark quartz counters exposed to direct heat or sunlight will show discolored spots that look like stains, which can be prevented by using pot holders instead of placing hot cookware on top of quartz surfaces.

To learn more about caring for quartz, or to find out how to disinfect granite and natural stone, call Granite Gold® today at 1-800-475-STONE. Our Granite Gold Quartz Brite® is perfect for cleaning and polishing quartz surfaces, and we also provide a wide array of stone care products that are safe to use on granite, marble, travertine, and other types of natural stone. We hope to hear from you soon.