Quartz, a mineral composed of silicon and oxygen atoms, is a widely used material in various applications, from construction and industrial settings to everyday household items. Its presence is notable in engineered surfaces like countertops, as well as in jewelry and timepieces. While often perceived as highly durable, understanding the nuances of quartz’s hardness and how to care for it can help preserve its integrity over time.
Understanding Quartz Hardness
Mineral hardness is typically measured using the Mohs scale, a qualitative ordinal scale ranging from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest), which characterizes a material’s resistance to scratching by another material. Quartz consistently ranks as a 7 out of 10 on this scale. This places quartz in a category of minerals that are significantly resistant to abrasion, meaning it can scratch materials with a lower Mohs hardness rating, but can also be scratched by materials with a higher rating. For instance, a mineral with a Mohs hardness of 6 would be scratched by quartz, while quartz itself could be scratched by a mineral rated 8 or higher. This numerical value highlights quartz’s substantial scratch resistance, though it also indicates that it is not impervious to all forms of damage.
Common Sources of Scratches
Any material with a Mohs hardness greater than or equal to 7 poses a potential threat. For example, materials like corundum, which includes sapphire and ruby (Mohs 9), or diamond (Mohs 10), can easily scratch quartz. Common household items that can contain these harder particles include ceramic dishes and unglazed pottery, which, if dragged across a quartz surface, might leave marks.
Sand and grit, often composed of quartz itself or other hard minerals, can also act as abrasives. When these small, hard particles are inadvertently dragged across a quartz countertop, they can cause superficial scratches. Additionally, certain specialized tools like ceramic knives, which are harder than typical steel knives, can potentially scratch quartz if used directly on the surface without a cutting board. Harsh cleaning products containing abrasive granules or scouring pads can also contribute to scratching the surface.
Protecting Quartz Surfaces
A simple yet highly effective method involves consistently using cutting boards for all food preparation, regardless of the type of knife. This practice not only protects the quartz from sharp blades but also from potential impacts or abrasive actions. Similarly, placing trivets or hot pads under hot cookware, baking dishes, and even heavy appliances helps to prevent direct contact that could lead to scratches or other damage.
When cleaning quartz surfaces, it is important to use only mild soap and water with a soft cloth or sponge. Abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or steel wool should be avoided entirely, as these can introduce micro-scratches that dull the surface over time. Promptly wiping away any spills or gritty substances like sand or dirt also limits their potential to cause abrasive damage. Lifting heavy items rather than dragging them across the surface also helps prevent linear scratches.
Addressing Existing Scratches
Minor, superficial scuffs that primarily affect the surface layer can sometimes be minimized. Homeowners might attempt to buff out these light marks using a specialized quartz polishing compound applied with a soft cloth in circular motions. Some remedies for very light scratches include using a small amount of toothpaste or a baking soda paste, gently rubbed into the area.
Deeper scratches that penetrate beyond the resin layer of engineered quartz are generally more challenging to remedy. These visible and palpable grooves are often difficult or impossible for a homeowner to remove completely. In such cases, professional assistance is typically recommended. Professionals may utilize specialized equipment and techniques, potentially involving sanding or the application of epoxy or resin fillers that are color-matched to the countertop, to restore the surface. Attempting to fix deep scratches without proper tools or expertise may lead to further damage.