Dark quartz countertops are durable and low-maintenance, but no countertop material is completely scratch-proof. Here is a detailed look at how susceptible dark quartz is to scratching and steps you can take to prevent damage.
What is Dark Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground quartz particles combined with resins and pigments. The quartz content typically ranges from 90-94%. Popular dark quartz colors include black, charcoal, midnight, and graphite.
Compared to natural stone like granite, quartz is non-porous and resists staining. The resin binders make quartz more flexible and resistant to cracks. Dark quartz colors hide fingerprints and watermarks better than light colors. Overall, quartz provides an attractive, durable, and low-maintenance surface.
Is Dark Quartz Prone to Scratching?
Dark quartz is more scratch-resistant than marble or granite but can still get scratched under the right circumstances. Here are the key factors:
Hardness
Quartz has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, compared to diamonds which are a 10. This means quartz won’t scratch as easily as softer stones like marble (3-4 on the scale). However, diamonds and other 9+ minerals can potentially scratch quartz.
Finishes
Polished, glossy finishes highlight scratches more than honed or textured finishes. Darker quartz colors generally hide scratches better than light colors.
Quality
Higher quality quartz contains more quartz content and higher-performance resins. Budget quartz brands may be more prone to damage.
Daily Wear and Tear
Daily use of your counters will eventually take a toll. Quartz stands up well to common kitchen tasks like chopping vegetables or placing dishes. But constant scraping or friction can wear down the surface over time.
What Causes Scratches on Dark Quartz?
Carelessness when handling quartz can lead to scratches. Avoid the following:
- Dragging pots, pans or utensils across the surface
- Cutting food directly on the counter
- Applying too much pressure when scrubbing
Quartz can also scratch when it comes into contact with harder materials:
- Granite, porcelain, ceramic and glass cutting boards
- Some metal tools like knife blades
- Abrasive cleaners and scouring pads
- Jewelry and accessories like watches or belts
Even small particles like sand or grit trapped under an object can scratch quartz surfaces.
Does Dark Quartz Countertop Scratch Easily?
With proper care and maintenance, dark quartz countertops are very scratch-resistant for daily kitchen use. But no material is scratch-proof, so being cautious will help preserve the appearance of your countertops.
Here are some best practices to prevent scratching:
- Use cutting boards for food preparation
- Avoid dragging rough cookware across the surface
- Clean gently with soft sponges and non-abrasive cleaners
- Don’t use scouring pads or powders
- Clean spills promptly to avoid staining
- Lift objects instead of sliding them across the counter
- Install padding under appliances to prevent abrasions
While scratches cannot be fully repaired, some light superficial scratches can be gently sanded and buffed out by a professional. But deep scratches may be permanent.
Overall, dark quartz counters are an excellent choice that will stand up well in busy kitchens with proper care. With some preventative measures, you can enjoy scratch-free counters for years.
FAQs About Dark Quartz Scratching
Does dark quartz stain easily?
No, quartz resists stains much better than marble or granite. But spills should still be cleaned up promptly, especially oils which can penetrate over time.
Can you repair scratches on quartz?
Light surface scratches can sometimes be sanded and polished out. But deeper scratches are usually permanent.
Does dark quartz chip easily?
Quartz is very resistant to chips and cracks compared to natural stone. But excessive force and impact can cause chips on quartz edges and corners.
Is quartz more scratch resistant than granite?
Quartz rates 7 on the Mohs scale compared to granite at 6-7, so quartz has a slight edge. But both materials are vulnerable to scratching from harder objects.
Does a honed finish scratch less than polished?
Yes, honed finishes show scratches less. But polished finishes can be restored more easily by polishing out light scratches.
Conclusion
Dark quartz countertops offer an attractive and durable surface that is fairly scratch-resistant for daily use. While no material is fully scratch-proof, taking simple precautions will help prevent scratching and maintain the appearance of your counters. With proper maintenance, you can enjoy beautiful dark quartz counters for many years before needing replacement.