Mistakes Everyone Makes After Buying Quartz Countertops

Choosing the right materials when designing a home is probably the most stressful part of the entire process. For some, it takes hours or days; for others, it could take years. Not only does it have to be functional, but the colors all have to harmonize together to create the theme you're aiming for. So when you finally pick the perfect materials for either your kitchen, living room, bathroom, etc., you want to protect it as if it's your own child. According to Capitol Granite, a popular countertop material is quartz, and it's even beating out longtime contender — granite.

Quartz does come from a natural stone but is considered a man-made material as it is engineered to be combined with plastic resins, The Spruce explains. As a result, quartz is a more desirable material because it's easier to take care of, it's flexible according to your desired ultimate design, and the price is more affordable. However, although homeowners choose this stone due to the seemingly easy steps it takes to care for it, there are common mistakes many homeowners make that you should avoid.

Although quartz is easy to take care of, it doesn't mean that you can slack off when it comes to basic maintenance. Your parents might have told you not to cry over spilled milk as a child, but now as a homeowner, spills are definitely something to cry about — especially if they cost you thousands of dollars. Supreme Stone says spills on quartz countertops should be cleaned immediately, especially if they're acidic. Although some companies may state that their quartz is stain-resistant, it's never wise to test that theory out. Instead, grab a soft cloth and soap, and clean the spill as soon as you notice it.

When cleaning your countertop, also make sure to use the right supplies to prevent further damage. It's advised to clean your quartz countertops at least once a day, but avoid using anything too acidic or anything that may contain alkaline elements, as it can cause more serious staining. Also, be careful not to use anything too abrasive when wiping the counter; this can scratch or wipe away the shine of your beloved surface. Be sure to use a soft rag to wash and a cotton cloth to dry.

Although quartz countertops are made of a strong stone that is sure to shatter any plate you drop, it still should be treated delicately, Supreme Stone recommends. Most quartz slabs on the market are NSF-approved, meaning that it's safe to prepare food on top of it. But, if you like to keep your knives sharp for efficient vegetable chopping, cutting straight onto the countertop will leave small scratches and knicks. Unfortunately, doing this will dull the beauty of your quartz, therefore decreasing its overall value.

It is also definitely tempting to quickly place a pot on the countertop as you search for a bowl to pour your precious meal into when cooking. But, doing so can result in catastrophic results for your counter stone. If you put a pot or pan onto quartz that happens to be over 300 degrees Fahrenheit, this can result in discoloration. Also, like in many other scenarios, causing your quartz surface to undergo a quick and drastic temperature change can make the slab crack. It's advised to use cooking pads and trivets to keep the beautiful design of your kitchen safe.