Quartz is the second most abundant material in the earth's crust (which is good), but the acrylic resins used in quartz countertops are petroleum by-products, and they often contain alumina trihydrate fillers made from bauxite ore, which is mined primarily under toxic conditions in developing countries.
Chemicals to Avoid
acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid. Chemicals with high alkaline/PH levels (pH > 10).
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 countertops can consist of approximately 93 to 95 percent quartz and 5 to 7 percent resin by weight. Engineered quartz is manufactured using Italian Bretonstone technology that blends pulverized quartz or other natural stone aggregates like granite and marble with a polymer resin mix.
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.
You can feel confident with quartz because it doesn't have any foreign substances that might be hurtful to your health or the environment. The non-porous surface also reduces contaminants like mold spores, pesticides, and other chemicals. Check for third-party certifications to ensure the safety of your surface.
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.
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.
One material that gives you the beauty, hygiene and durability of natural stone, but which is also non-porous is Quartz. As a result, quartz countertops are non-porous with nowhere for bacteria to hide.
evidence that Crystalline Silica causes lung cancer in humans and Silica, Quartz causes lung cancer in animals. a carcinogen. Such substance may also have the potential for causing reproductive damage in humans. Jersey Department of Health, Silica, Quartz has not been tested for its ability to affect reproduction.
Con: Heat Resistance
Quartz countertops are somewhat heat resistant, but at very high temperatures the resins that bind the quartz crystals may discolor. If heat resistance is a top priority for you, a natural stone countertop may be a better choice, although stone surfaces can also be damaged by excessive heat.
Quartz and granite contain varying amounts of uranium, thorium, and potassium, which are naturally radioactive. Uranium and thorium decay to a radioactive gas, radon, which in turn decays to other radionuclides.
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.
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.
Magic eraser may also be used to fight tough quartz stains, simply wet the magic eraser and apply in gentle, circular motion.
The low threshold makes quartz more likely to burn or break when in contact with heat. Therefore, you can put a hot mug of coffee on your countertop, but a searing hot pan or boiling pot of water could leave a burn mark. Over time, coffee mugs and teacups could leave burn marks as well.
Your coffee pot, a bowl of soup, or mug of hot tea won't damage quartz surfaces. It's best practice to place a barrier of some kind between a slow cooker or pressure cooker and your quartz counter.
Generally, quartz is less expensive than granite, but many factors influence the total price of a project. In this article, we'll look at the differences between natural granite stone and engineered quartz stone and the factors that affect pricing so you can determine which material is best for your design project.
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.
This stone is non-porous, so it does not easily stain or etch. Other than cleaning regularly, quartz doesn't require any ongoing maintenance. It's a great choice for a busy kitchen. This engineered stone is comparable in price to granite and synthetic solid surface countertops.
You can expect a quartz (engineered stone) countertop to last 20 to 60 years, depending of level and usage and care, with an average of 40 years. The material is a combination of ground quartz, resins, and pigments. Because it is a manufactured product, the range of designs and colors is extensive.
Quartz (Engineered Stone)
This high-end material is one of the top choices for a luxury kitchen countertop.