Many homeowners still view kitchen upgrades as one of the most important aspects of a home renovation. Statistics from the National Kitchen and Bath Association show that one in every ten households performs a kitchen remodel every year.
Arguably the most important work surface in the home, the countertop is a key feature that homeowners look forward to replacing. Below we share six things you are doing that are accidentally ruining your quartz countertop.
1. Not Cleaning Spills Immediately
Most homeowners make the mistake of waiting too long before they can wipe off spills on their countertops. While manufacturers like Bellingham quartz may market the slabs as stain-resistant, prolonged contact with acidic liquids may cause the surface to stain. As a good rule of thumb, always clean your spill as soon as it occurs with soapy water and a soft cloth.
2. Using Wrong Cleaning Supplies
Most experts recommend cleaning your kitchen surfaces at least once daily. However, using the wrong cleaning solutions on your quartz countertop can erode the beauty of the engineered stone. Too acidic or alkaline household cleaners can damage the resins on your slab, thus staining it.
3. Using Abrasive pads
Some homeowners use abrasive cleaning pads that starch and dull their quartz countertops. You should avoid hard-bristled brushes, scrubbing pads, and metal scourers at all costs. Use a gentle approach, preferably a soft rug to clean and a cotton cloth to dry. This way, your quartz surface will remain beautiful and shiny for a long time to come.
4. Scraping Stains Using Metal Objects
No matter how much you try to keep your kitchen clean, every once in a while, you might have to scrape off gunk that stuck on your surfaces. You risk scrapping off the paint on the fabrication countertops when you use sharp metal objects. Always use a plastic knife or scraper to remove the stain.
5. Cutting Foods Directly on the Countertop
Most quartz slabs, such as Bellingham countertops, are NSF-approved. They are safe for the preparation of food. However, with the right amount of force, using knives directly on the surface to chop and cut your ingredients can result in scratches. The small nicks and scratches gradually dull your surface and erode the beauty of your quartz countertop.
6. Placing Hot Appliances on Your Countertop
While quartz may be highly heat-resistant, prolonged exposure will damage the resin causing it to discolor. Temperatures above 300° F can spell bad news for your countertop. Besides, sudden extreme changes in temperature may lead to slab cracking. Avoid placing hot pots and pans directly on the countertop’s surface. You can use buffers such as cooking pads and trivets to protect the quartz from direct exposure to heat.
While quartz countertops are quite durable, they can get scratches, stains, or crack when not maintained properly. If you manage to avoid the six mistakes above, your countertop may last for years to come. For more information on how to better protect your quartz countertop, feel free to contact Jackson Stoneworks
