Quartz countertops are growing in popularity for both indoor and outdoor kitchens. With their durability, low maintenance, and stylish appearance, quartz makes an excellent choice for outdoor countertops. But before installing quartz counters outside, it’s important to understand how they hold up to the elements. Here’s what you need to know about using quartz countertops outdoors.

What is Quartz?

Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically makes up 90-94% of the material, while the rest consists of polymer resins for binding and pigments for coloration.

Compared to natural stone countertops like granite and marble, quartz has a more uniform appearance since the coloring extends throughout the slab. The resins make quartz non-porous, so it resists stains far better than natural stone. Quartz also stands up well to scratches, heat, and impact.

While often confused with solid quartz surfaces, quartz countertops contain much higher quartz content. Solid surface is made from polyester or acrylic resins with quartz added for texture. Quartz countertops offer greater durability for outdoor use.

Benefits of Quartz for Outdoor Countertops

Quartz has several advantages that make it well-suited for outdoor kitchen countertops:

Durability

With a Mohs hardness rating of 7 out of 10, quartz is harder than granite and most metal utensils. This makes it very scratch-resistant for heavy outdoor use. Quartz won’t etch or stain easily like natural stone.

Low Maintenance

Quartz repels water, grease, and stains, so outdoor quartz counters only need occasional cleaning with soap and water. No sealants or special cleaners are required.

Resistance to Temperature Changes

Engineered quartz can withstand temperature fluctuations from hot cookware to freezing temperatures. Rapid heating and cooling won’t crack or damage quartz.

UV Resistance

Quartz contains UV blockers to prevent fading or discoloration from sun exposure. Outdoor quartz counters will look freshly installed for years.

Non-Porous

With very low porosity, quartz won’t harbor bacteria or mold growth when used outdoors. No sealing is needed to prevent liquids from seeping in.

Appearance

Quartz offers consistent coloring and an attractive finish. Polished quartz counters complement any style of outdoor kitchen. Popular color options like whites, grays, and dark tones don’t show dirt.

Large Slab Sizes

Quartz is available in large slabs up to 126” x 64”, allowing long counters to be made from a single piece. Minimal seams make installation easier outdoors.

Factors to Consider for Outdoor Quartz Counters

While quartz is highly durable outside, some precautions must be taken during design and installation to ensure longevity:

Direct Sunlight Exposure

Prolonged exposure to intense sunlight can eventually cause damage to any material. Regular use of an outdoor canopy, pergola, or umbrella provides shade and prevents fading. North-facing quartz counters see less UV exposure.

Extreme Heat Sources

Direct contact with flames or extremely hot cookware could scorch quartz. Using trivets for hot pots and locating grills away from counters prevents thermal shock.

Cabinet Construction

Outdoor cabinets must be moisture-resistant and structurally reinforced to support heavy quartz slabs. Stainless steel or aluminum cabinets withstand weather best.

Overhangs

Counters should have an overhang or drip edge to prevent standing water. This allows drainage so water won’t pool on joints or cutouts. An overhang of 1/4″ per foot of counter depth is recommended.

Sealants

Using waterproof silicone sealant on all joints prevents moisture entry that could damage substrate material or cause cracks from freeze/thaw cycles.

Surface Finish

A polished quartz surface makes cleaning easier outdoors. Quartz is also available in matte finishes but will require more maintenance.

Winter Temperatures

In cold climates, outdoor plumbing lines and water supplies should be properly winterized. Quartz itself withstands freezing temperatures but water leaks can cause damage.

Thermal Expansion

Temperature swings cause slight expansion and contraction in quartz slabs. Allowing small gaps between slabs and walls lets the material expand naturally.

Exposure to Chemicals

Quartz has excellent chemical resistance but prolonged exposure to harsh cleaners could eventually etch the surface. Only use recommended cleaners like soap and water.

Outdoor Installation Process

Installing quartz counters outdoors involves a few specialized steps:

Reinforced Base Cabinetry

Outdoor cabinets must be sturdy enough to support heavy quartz slabs. Waterproofing treatments and stainless steel hardware provide durability.

Precut Sink and Cooktop Openings

Any cutouts for sinks, cooktops, or appliances should be pre-cut in the quartz slabs at the fabricator’s workshop for smoothest edges.

Supporting Substrate

Outdoor counters need a weather-resistant substrate material like marine-grade plywood rather than standard particleboard.

Silicone Caulk Seams

Sealing all seams between quartz slabs and where counters meet walls prevents moisture intrusion into substrate material.

Careful Lifting and Placement

Large quartz slabs require at least two installers to lift into place without cracking or chipping corners. Use suction cup lifters.

Allowing Expansion Space

Small gaps of 1/8” should be left between the quartz and surrounding walls or surfaces to accommodate thermal expansion.

Smooth Overhangs

Counters should have a smooth beveled edge where they overhang the base cabinets for drainage. Support overhangs structurally.

Backsplashes

Outdoor backsplashes made of matching quartz protect the wall from splashes and complete the polished look.

Extra Adhesive

Additional adhesive underneath quartz slabs helps bond counters to cabinets to prevent any shifting due to temperature changes.

Caring for Outdoor Quartz Countertops

With outdoor installation complete, simple care keeps your quartz counters looking like new:

Use trivets or hot pads under hot cookware to prevent thermal shock.
Clean spills promptly with mild soap and water to prevent staining.
Avoid exposing quartz to chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners, etc.
Check caulk seals periodically and reapply as needed to prevent moisture entry.
Inspect overhangs and backsplashes for any loosening and re-adhere if necessary.
Use a canopy, umbrella or covering to minimize direct sunlight whenever possible.
Drying standing water and liquid spills prevents moisture buildup on counter edges.
Apply mineral oil to matte quartz finishes occasionally to maintain appearance.
In winter climates, shut off water lines to outdoor sinks and faucets during freezing temperatures.

With proper installation and care, quartz countertops can be enjoyed outdoors for years of beauty and durability. The minimal maintenance quartz requires makes it an ideal surface for outdoor kitchens in any climate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Quartz Countertops

Can quartz counters get wet?

Yes, quartz has excellent water resistance and will not warp, swell or be damaged by water exposure outdoors. Rain, splashes and spills will run right off the non-porous surface.

Does quartz fade in sunlight?

Quartz engineered with UV blockers resists fading and discoloration outdoors far better than natural stone. Direct sun should be avoided but normal exposure is fine.

How durable is quartz outside?

Properly installed, quartz is extremely durable outdoors. Its hard, scratch-resistant surface stands up well to heavy use and outdoor temperature swings.

Does quartz get hot in the sun?

Quartz only heats up minimally in sunlight. It handles heat better than other stones and won’t crack from thermal shock. Very hot cookware could potentially scorch it.

Can you install quartz on an outdoor island?

Yes, with proper moisture-resistant base cabinetry quartz makes a gorgeous and durable countertop for outdoor kitchen islands that withstand the elements beautifully.

Does quartz need to be sealed outdoors?

No, quartz is non-porous so it never needs sealing outdoors. This makes maintenance easy compared to natural stone counters that require frequent sealing.

Will quartz crack outside?

Quartz resists cracking outdoors if installed properly on a sturdy cabinet base allowing for thermal expansion. Cracking can result from poor substrate material, inadequate support or frozen water leaks.

Does quartz get moldy outside?

Quartz’s non-porous surface prevents mold or mildew growth outdoors. If installed over a moisture-resistant substrate without cracks for water intrusion, quartz will stay mold-free outside.

Are there warranty options for outdoor quartz?

Many quartz manufacturers do offer 5- or 10-year warranties for outdoor installation. This covers defects in materials or fabrication. Check warranty conditions with your fabricator.

Does quartz cost more for outdoor use?

Outdoor quartz installation does come with added costs for specialized materials like waterproof cabinets, high-quality substrate material, and adhesives designed for exterior use. The quartz itself won’t cost more.

Final Thoughts on Using Quartz Countertops Outside

With the look of natural stone but enhanced durability, quartz is a smart choice for creating an elegant yet low-maintenance outdoor kitchen. By withstanding temperature swings, moisture, heavy usage, and sun exposure, quartz exceeds the limitations of both natural stone and solid surface materials when used outside. While outdoor installation does require adjustments, quartz counters properly installed by an experienced fabricator will stand up beautifully to the elements for many years of outdoor enjoyment.

Can Quartz Countertops Go Outside?