Silestone is a popular brand of quartz countertops that are known for their durability and low maintenance. However, even this hardy material can become damaged under certain circumstances. Understanding what can harm Silestone counters allows homeowners to take preventative measures to keep their investment looking pristine.
Common Causes of Damage
Heat
One of the most common ways Silestone quartz counters become damaged is through excessive heat exposure. While Silestone can withstand brief contact with moderately hot pans, placing extremely hot cookware directly on the surface can cause discoloration, cracking, or scorch marks.
Sources of extreme heat that can harm Silestone include:
- Hot pans or pots from the stovetop or oven
- Hotplates and crockpots
- Curling irons or hair straighteners
- Candles
- Cigarettes
To prevent thermal damage, always use trivets, hot pads, or cutting boards when placing hot items on quartz. Avoid exposing the material to open flames.
Impact
Silestone is incredibly hard and scratch-resistant, but a sudden heavy impact can cause cracks or chips in the surface. Dropping heavy objects like appliances, cookware, or ceramics onto the quartz can fracture the material. Impacts near seams or corners tend to inflict the most damage.
To prevent impact damage:
- Use care when setting down heavy objects
- Avoid excessive force when chopping with knives
- Keep the surface clear of debris that could scratch if something is slid across it
- Repair any cracks or chips as soon as possible to prevent further damage
Sunlight
While Silestone won’t fade in color from sunlight like some other materials, over time excessive ultraviolet (UV) exposure can cause subtle dulling. Long-term sunlight can also produce hairline cracks or crazing.
Protecting the surface from UV exposure will help it retain its original vibrancy and integrity. Consider using window treatments or applied films to reduce sunlight on the counters. Avoid leaving the quartz uncovered in direct sun for extended periods.
Improper Cleaning
Using the wrong cleaners or excessive force while cleaning can harm Silestone as well. Harsh chemicals like bleach, oven cleaners, or acidic products can etch or discolor the quartz. Abrasive scrubbing pads also should not be used.
Stick to the manufacturer’s care recommendations. Generally, a mild detergent and soft cloth or sponge are ideal for routine cleaning. More stubborn messes may require a non-acidic cleaner formulated for stone surfaces. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
Structural Issues
Faulty installation or underlying support problems can also lead to damage in Silestone counters. Cracks, shifting, or warping may indicate:
- Improper seam placement or adhesion
- Weak underlying cabinetry
- Moisture issues causing swelling in the substrate
- Settlement or movement in the home
Address any structural concerns promptly to prevent further deterioration of the quartz.
Types of Damage
Etching
Etching shows up as dull, light-colored spots or rings on the surface. It is caused by acidic liquids like vinegar, lemon juice, or harsh cleaners that damage the quartz sealant. Etching damage is permanent but often fairly minimal. Keeping acidic substances wiped up and avoiding acidic cleaners can prevent etching.
Scratches
Light surface scratches are inevitable on any countertop with regular use. Silestone’s hardness makes it highly scratch-resistant, but marks can still occur from things like unglazed ceramics, cookware, glassware, and metal objects dragged across the surface. Most light scratches can be buffed out with specialty polishing pads. Avoid cutting or chopping directly on the quartz to minimize scratching.
Cracks and Chips
Impact damage like drops or blows with heavy, dense objects can remove small pieces or create cracks and fissures. Cracks begin small but spread over time if not repaired. Chips allow moisture inside that leads to more extensive damage. Prompt professional repair of any cracks or chips is essential.
Discoloration
Prolonged exposure to heat, sunlight, or harsh chemicals can all cause subtle changes in the color and tone of Silestone quartz. Discoloration often appears as light spots or yellowing. Refinishing treatments can sometimes reduce minor discoloration. Avoiding the damaging conditions in the first place is best.
Warping
Improper support or underlying moisture issues can cause the edges of a Silestone countertop to curl up or become distorted. Warping or distortion needs to be evaluated by a professional to determine the cause. The quartz itself may need replacement if the damage is severe.
Seam Separation
Adhesive failures along seams can lead to visible gaps, roughness, or misalignment where two pieces of Silestone meet. Moisture exposure is often to blame. Seam damage requires professional re-adhesion. Preventative re-sealing may be needed in especially humid environments.
Mold or Bacteria Growth
Silestone does not encourage mold growth the way that natural stone does, but spills allowed to sit can still lead to mold or bacteria colonies forming. Bleach-based cleaners generally remove superficial biological growths. Disinfectants like Lysol® also help. Allowing spills to fully dry prevents most biological staining.
Preventing Damage
Use Trivets and Cutting Boards
Protecting Silestone from direct heat exposure and cutting impacts prevents the majority of damage. Trivets, hot pads, and cutting boards should be used whenever possible. Take care not to slide these protective items across the surface.
Clean Spills Promptly
Letting spills sit allows chemicals and staining substances time to interact with the quartz. Wipe up food, liquids, bath and beauty products, laundry additives, and anything acidic right away. Some stains can set permanently if left more than a few hours.
Follow Care Instructions
Carefully follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for appropriate cleaners and cleaning methods. Generally, mild detergent and water is all that is needed for routine maintenance. Avoid abrasive pads or powders. Use specialty stone cleaners sparingly.
Protect From Sunlight
Install window treatments that reduce UV light exposure. Avoid leaving quartz counters uncovered in prolonged direct sunlight. Shift decorative items periodically so the covered areas don’t become noticeably different in appearance.
Humidity Control
Prevent excess moisture in the environment with proper ventilation, dehumidifiers, and climate control. High humidity increases seam damage risk and allows mold/bacteria growth. Keep relative indoor humidity between 30-50%.
Get Seams Professionally Inspected
Have seams periodically evaluated for soundness by a certified Silestone installer. Fresh caulk and sealant can repair minor gaps before they worsen. Catching problems early is key.
Use Hot Pads for Appliances
Place trivets or hot pads under small kitchen appliances like instant pots, air fryers, and coffeemakers. Their sustained heat can damage many countertop materials over time. Prevent concentrated hot spots.
Avoid DIY Repairs
Don’t try to fix chips, cracks, etching, or discoloration yourself. Professional repair specialists have the products and training needed to restore Silestone counters without further damaging them. Most damage can be fixed by a pro.
Install Properly
Be sure installation is done precisely to manufacturer specifications, especially seam placement and adhesion. Underlying cabinets and structural supports must be sound and meet guidelines as well. Faulty installation causes eventual issues.
Repairing Existing Damage
Minor damage like light scratches, superficial etching, or slight scorch marks can often be remedied with buffing and polishing compounds for stone surfaces. Use mild, fine-grit abrasives formulated for quartz. Work in small areas to blend buffed areas evenly. Avoid excessive pressure.
For more significant damage like cracks, chips, or conspicuous marks, professional repair is recommended. Silestone fabricators have access to custom color-matched fillers, additives, and epoxies to seamlessly patch damaged areas. Most repair methods cure in about an hour with minimal downtime or disruption.
If damage is severe enough that simple refinishing cannot adequately remedy it, a quartz countertop may need partial replacement. This involves cutting out the damaged section and joining in new material. Partial replacements result in some seams that weren’t present originally. Planning the layout carefully helps maintain the appearance.
In cases of excessive damage over large areas, a full quartz countertop replacement may be necessary. Professionals can remove and replace the material relatively quickly in most cases.
Preventing Further Damage After Repairs
Once damage is repaired, be diligent about preventing those issues going forward:
- Use trivets religiously under hot items
- Eliminate harsh chemicals from cleaning routine
- Cut only on designated boards – never directly on quartz
- Immediately wipe up spills, especially acidic substances
- Check for new cracks or chips around repair sites
- Have seams professionally re-sealed to prevent moisture issues
- Filter sunlight and control humidity to stop discoloration
- Address any underlying structural deficiencies
With proper care and maintenance, repaired Silestone countertops can look and perform like new for many years. Be attentive to prevent the same types of damage from recurring.
Frequently Asked Questions About Damaging Silestone Quartz
Can you cut on Silestone countertops?
It’s best to avoid cutting or chopping directly on Silestone. Use a designated cutting board to protect the surface. The impact can chip or scratch the quartz.
Do hot pans damage Silestone?
Yes, placing extremely hot pans directly on Silestone can damage it. Always use trivets or hot pads. Let pans cool somewhat first. Prolonged heat exposure can discolor or crack the quartz.
What happens if Silestone gets wet?
Small water splashes or spills won’t harm Silestone since it’s non-porous. However, excessive moisture reaching underneath can damage adhesion or cause swelling issues. Prevent water from pooling near seams and clean up spills promptly.
Can you bleach Silestone quartz?
No, avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals like oven cleaners on Silestone. They can discolor or etch the surface. Mild detergent is usually all that’s needed. For tougher cleaning, use a specialized quartz cleaner.
Does lemon juice stain Silestone?
Yes, acidic substances like lemon juice can etch Silestone if left to sit. The acid damages the protective sealant. Wipe up spills of lemon juice, vinegar or other acids right away. Avoid using them for long-term food storage.
Does Silestone scratch easily?
Silestone is very scratch-resistant compared to other natural stone and many competing quartz brands. However, it can still become scratched over time with regular use. Use cutting boards and take care not to drag metal or ceramic objects across the surface.
Can you repair scratches in Silestone?
Minor surface scratches can often be minimized by using fine-grit buffing pads designed for quartz. Work in a circular pattern and avoid applying too much pressure. Severe scratches may require professional refinishing.
How long does Silestone last?
With proper care and maintenance, Silestone countertops typically last 20-25 years. Avoiding excessive heat, impacts, and chemicals will maximize longevity. Having any damage professionally repaired helps prevent deterioration.
Conclusion
Silestone offers many benefits like durability, hygiene, and easy maintenance. But no countertop material is impervious to damage when subjected to extreme conditions. Being mindful of how heat, chemicals, sunlight, and impact can harm quartz allows homeowners to take preventative steps. Address any damage promptly and follow care guidelines to keep Silestone counters pristine for decades. With reasonable precautions, homeowners can enjoy both the function and lasting beauty of Silestone quartz.