Are Quartz Surfaces Scratch Proof?
One of the most important factors to take into account when choosing materials for counter tops is how long they will last. Believed to be extremely hard and scratchproof, quartz is a no brainer as it ranks quite high on the popularity scale. But, Quartz can scratch from itself as well? In this post, we discuss the scratch resistance of quartz and if one quartz surface can really be scratched by another.
Hardness Characteristics of Quartz
Quartz Mohs Scale of Mineral Hardness 7 hardness Quartz ranks at number seven on the minerals scratch rating scale called the Mohs Scale. This makes quartz one of the toughest materials for countertops. For information, the most difficult mineral, Diamond has a 10.
Why Quartz is Scratch Resistant Because it ranks so highly, quartz can resist scratching from most other materials in your home. But quartz can be scratched by materials that are higher on the Mohs scale, such as diamond or corundum.
Can Quartz Scratch Itself?
Theory of the case that a material can scratch another piece of the same if it is sharp enough in its edges and press it with enough force. This is a result of the homogeneity of hardness within a given material which can be ascertained with certainty. In the real world, however, it is very unlikely that quartz countertops will scratch each other during normal kitchen use.
Fabricated Edges Typical engineered quartz stone countertops are fabricated to include rounded or beveled edges that minimize the risk of scratching. In the rare instance where you see an improper edge or a certain accident causing misfunction on your flat quartz countertop resulting in a scratch, note these are most likely sharp and would only be caused by chipping and cry poor workmanship.
What Determines the Scratch Resistance of a Quartz?
Quartz Quality Not all quartz is made the same. (Yes, they really are that durable…) And the quality and durability of quartz can differ depending on how it is made, including the proportion of natural quartz to resin. The quartz with higher natural portion has a significant scratch-resistant tendency and makes for an excellent quality material.
Surface Treatments: Some quartz countertops receive surface treatments to increase their stain and scratch resistance. These treatments may or may not affect the scratch resistance of quartz to other objects, including another quartz surface.
Preventative Measures
Put A Cutting Board Over Your Quartz To keep quartz surfaces in tip-top condition, butcher block cutting boards are recommended when you have to chop or cut on them. There is no chance of scratching with kitchen utensils, irrespective for the scratch resistance in quartz.
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners Quartz is hard and many quartz counters have a finish that will wear over time leading to more scratches. Only use mild cleaners to make the surface last longer.
So, understand that quartz is poured into pretty much entirely solid slabs so it has lovely edges…however, having said that, it can be scratched ever so slightly but usually find me an object in your home or outside of what you are at and I'll show you 1000 different things we could all scratch this material up with — IF, gray if– the quartz was rubbed against each other super hard AND one piece had a shy sharp unpolished edge! But this is the rare worst case that won't occur just because you use your kitchen in a normal way without trying to scratch, dent or break things. Discover how can quartz scratch quartz and other care tips to get most out of your countertops.