Quartz contains a 10% apoxy/acrylic resin which has high levels of VOC (volatile organic compounds). This is bad for the environment and indoor air quality. Granite comes from the ground and has VOC levels from radon, but the levels have tested MUCH less than the VOC levels in quartz!
Choosing quartz for your home is a healthy decision for your family, especially when there are certifications to confirm its safety. The non-porous surface helps contribute to healthy indoor air quality with its natural materials, low VOCs, and non-toxic cleaners.
Quartz, silica, crystalline silica and flint are non-toxic materials having no known adverse health effects from ingestion. However, it does pose considerable hazards with respect to long term inhalation. CAS: 14808-60-7 Silica: ACGIH TLV & OSHA PEL: 0.1 mg/cubic meter 8 hr. TWA, Respirable Dust.
Quartz Counters (Engineered Stone)
They claim that the final product is fully cured (no VOCs), but it did have a very minor offgassing odor for the first few days. After that, I found it completely safe. Silestone is the one brand that contains an antimicrobial, Microban mixed into the structure.
When slabs of engineered stone are cut and finished to fit a kitchen or bathroom, large quantities of silica particles are released. If workers inhale them, it can start a process leading to silicosis as well as to lung cancer and kidney disease.
Quartz can be more expensive than other countertops but is generally cheaper than natural stone and other luxury options. It does require professional installation and can discolor when exposed to high temperatures and extensive heat for long periods.
Based on significant research from granite's around the world, it is determined that there is a minimal and acceptable amount of radon in average granite building materials. Although quartz countertops will have less to zero radon, it does not preclude granite as a “less safe” choice in kitchen countertops.
Quartz contains a 10% apoxy/acrylic resin which has high levels of VOC (volatile organic compounds). This is bad for the environment and indoor air quality. Granite comes from the ground and has VOC levels from radon, but the levels have tested MUCH less than the VOC levels in quartz!
The safest daily cleaner for your quartz is dish soap. But you can use any mild PH-neutral cleaner without issue. To keep your counters in good condition, put potholders down before placing hot pans on the counter, clean the counters daily, and address spills as fast as possible.
While you're at it, test for radon in your basement or crawl space too, since this is where the gas is most likely to be found in the home. Quartz does not off-gas or negatively affect interior or exterior air quality in any way.
Energy of Clear Quartz
It raises the energy level of any other crystal it contacts. In general: Quartz absorbs, stores, releases and regulates energy – hold a quartz crystal during any endeavor to enhance the movement of energy.
A Rundown on Toxic Crystals
However, here are a few to watch out for: Quartz is toxic and can cause silicosis. But unless you inhale quartz dust, work in a quartz mine without a mask, or ingest quartz, you won't suffer any negative effects.
Q Premium Natural Quartz embodies several environmentally-preferable characteristics that today's eco-conscious consumer values. Here's why you can feel good about choosing Q. GREENGUARD, LEED, NSF, and KOSHER certified. Longer lifespan than any other countertop surface.
To effectively remove them from your home and improve your IAQ, you do need to use activated carbon in addition to or instead of other air filtration methods. Activated carbon will not remove all other airborne pollutants, but it's the most consistently effective method for removing VOCs.
Conclusion. Clorox wipes should never be used to clean your quartz countertops because the solution used in the wipes can potentially damage the surface. Instead, use warm water and mild soap, white vinegar and water or a quartz cleaner.
Create a simple disinfectant using 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol and two cups water in a spray bottle. You may wish to add 1-2 drops of essential oils to add a nice smell to the mixture. Spray the countertops down, making sure to cover the entire surface. Allow the cleaning solution to sit for 2-3 minutes.
Magic eraser may also be used to fight tough quartz stains, simply wet the magic eraser and apply in gentle, circular motion.
Granite Doesn't Release VOCs
While they're common in many types of building materials like laminate, they are not found in natural stone. You can rest assured knowing that your beautiful granite stone countertop won't contribute to poor indoor air quality since it doesn't leach VOCs.
When certain varieties of quartz and limestone are strongly rubbed, they give off the odor of rotton eggs. This peculiar smell is occasioned by the evolution of sulphureted hydrogen ; and substances which possess this property are termed fetid.
It's bacteria-free, non-porous, very resilient, and non-porous. Consequently, it will need less maintenance and upkeep than granite. However, the look of quartz is uniform and although it imitates natural stones, it comes in well-established colors and designs.
Quartz is Easier to Maintain than Granite
This countertop achieves a high level of durability without any sealant. As opposed to Granite, which requires re-sealing each year to maintain a less superior guard against the common hot pan, spilled wine, and dirty hands. An easy to clean countertop is the new kitchen dream.
Durability
– Granite is much more heat resistant than quartz. – Granite scratches less easily than quartz.
You Can't Set Hot Pans on Them
Although quartz countertops are extremely durable and considered heat-resistant, putting a hot pan right on the surface can damage the material. As with most other countertops, you'll need to use a trivet or stove mitt to protect it, as heat can cause discoloration and/or cracking.