Quartz is the most common synthetic countertop material we handle, quartz is manufactured by combining a ground-up mineral aggregate (usually quartz and glass, hence the name) with a resin binder and pressing into a slab-shaped form to cure. Quartz is one of the strongest countertop materials out there; it can withstand bending and impact forces that would shatter a natural stone, and will resist scratches, stains, cleaners and general household wear better than the expensive white marbles it’s often designed to imitate (though not quite as well as granite). In addition, quartz is manufactured in a dazzling array of colors and patterns, including elegantly veined marble looks, stark whites and deep blacks for striking modern aesthetics, and even bright solid colors to add a splash of vivacious fun to an otherwise-dull space.

While more durable against physical wear and tear, quartz is not as heat-resistant as natural stone and we do recommend keeping hot pans away from the surface. The synthetic binders that hold the aggregate together begin to soften around 190°F, and can scorch and turn brown at 250-300°F. For the same reason, quartz is not a good fit for outdoor applications, as darker colors will fade and lighter colors can bleach or turn yellow with extended UV exposure. If it DOES get damaged, quartz is much more difficult to repair, particularly in a honed finish or with solid colors – repairs can be made, but they are often still visible to the eye. Working with a reputable repair technician such as The Stone Medics increases the likelihood of a successful repair.

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