Quartz countertops are one of the most popular types of stone countertop these days. They’re durable, affordable, and come in a variety of colors and textures that offer something for everyone.
One question that many people have about this type of material is whether or not it’s porous? In this article, I will answer that question and talk about some other things you might want to know before installing quartz in your kitchen or bathroom.
But first, let’s address the elephant in the room; Is the quartz countertop porous?
Quartz countertops are NOT porous due to the presence of materials like polyresin that acts as an adhesive that holds the ground quartz stone tightly together. Also, the sealer that is applied to the surface of quartz countertops makes them non-porous.
In order for a material to be classified as porous, it must be able to absorb and retain water and other liquids.
Non-porous materials like quartz cannot do this because they have a smooth surface that is created by the manufacturing process.
Generally speaking, quartz countertops are not porous because they’re made of stone that is tightly bound together with polymer materials that make them non-porous.
In addition, the surface of quartz countertops is sealed to create a smooth and cleanable finish that prevents liquids from penetrating the surface.
What is Porosity?
Porosity is a measure of a material’s ability to be penetrated by other materials. In terms of countertops, it refers to how much water can pass through the material. If water can’t pass through the material, it’s considered non-porous and if lots of water passes through the material then you have a porous material.
Anything that is made out of stone or ceramic, including quartz countertops are not considered to be porous because they have tiny holes that are too small for water to pass through.
So always remember that when searching for natural stone countertops, you might come across the term “porosity.” The percent of open pores in the stone that allow liquid and air to pass through is known as porosity. In terms of natural stone countertop, quartz is nonporous, granite is a less porous material, whereas limestone is very porous.
Reasons Why Quartz Is Nonporous
1. Quartz Is Engineered To Be Nonporous
One of the first reasons why quartz countertops are nonporous is because the quartz material itself is engineered to be nonporous. This is because quartz is made from a combination of 90% ground natural quartz with about 10% polyresin.
These main ingredients are then mixed with pigments and polymer resins that help to bind the material together.
What this means is that quartz countertops are nonporous because they are made that way. Also, the structure of quartz is peculiar.
Quartz is crystalline in structure, and that means it’s naturally resistant to liquid absorption. This is part of the reason why quartz is such a durable material that can withstand heavy daily use.
2. Quartz Countertops Usually Has A Polished Surface
The next thing that makes quartz countertops nonporous is because the outer surface of quartz is usually polished to a shine and sealed with resin, making it extremely resistant to absorption.
The main reason why quartz countertops are nonporous is that when the surface is polished and sealed, it creates an extremely smooth layer that is resistant to penetration.
It’s not impossible for liquids or other substances to penetrate the polished surface of the quartz, but it takes a lot more effort than it would with a less polished surface.
However, if you were to break through the sealant and polish of quartz countertops, then it’s likely that the material will absorb liquids and stains.
3. The Density Of Quartz Makes It Nonporous
Quartz is also very dense, having a higher specific gravity than other commonly used stone materials. In fact, quartz has a specific gravity of between 2370 and 2400 kg/m³. This means that the material is very heavy and it will take a lot of effort to cause any type of penetration.
A countertop would need to absorb enormous amounts of liquids before it would even begin to show any signs of penetration. The density and weight also make quartz countertops nonporous because it’s very resistant to penetration.
The two main reasons why you should take a look at quartz countertops is because it’s one of the most popular types of stone for countertops these days and because it’s nonporous.
Quartz countertops are made to be durable and able to withstand heavy use. These qualities make quartz countertops a good material for kitchen counters, bathroom vanities, or any other surface that you would want to use every day.
The fact that they are nonporous is just another reason why quartz countertops may be a good option for your home.
Benefits Of Quartz Being Nonporous
Quartz Does Not Absorb Liquids
Quartz being nonporous means that it does not absorb liquids or other substances. One of the best features of quartz countertops is that it does not absorb liquids or other substances.
This means that you don’t have to worry about staining your counters if something were to spill on them because there won’t be any permanent marks from a stain.
Even red wine spills can be easily wiped up without leaving behind a noticeable mark, which makes cleaning much easier and quicker than with granite countertops for example.
Quartz Will Not Absorb Grease or Oil
Another benefit of quartz countertops is that they will not absorb grease or oil. This means you can prepare food on your countertops without worrying about leaving behind a noticeable grease or oil mark on the surface.
If you have to cut up raw meat or other items that may leave grease, you can easily clean the surface without being afraid of leaving behind a permanent mark that will cause stains.
Usually, grease and oil can easily seep into natural stones but when it comes to quartz, the material will remain clean and pristine.
Quartz Counter Tops Are Easier To Clean Because It Is Nonporous
Quartz countertops are easier to clean because they do not absorb liquids or grease and oil. Quartz countertops will remain to look pristine with no stains or marks, so cleaning them is much simpler.
If you have to clean up spills on your countertops after cooking dinner, the stains will wipe right off.
If you have to clean up any grease or oil, it will wipe right off with no issues because of the nonporous surface.
Cleaning your quartz countertops is easier than with natural stones because it does not absorb liquids or grease and oil. You can find the best cleaning detergent at Amazon.
This also makes the material much easier to clean and maintain than any other type of countertops like marble or granite.
Quartz Is Durable For All-Round Daily Use
Another benefit to your quartz countertop being nonporous is that it makes it durable enough for it to be able to withstand heavy daily use.
You can use your quartz countertop for anything and everything you need to do in the kitchen, knowing that it will be able to withstand all types of heavy use.
This also means that you won’t have to worry about scratching your countertop if a sharp knife or other item is used on it.
The nonporous surface will be able to take the damage and your countertop won’t look any different after a few years of use.
With quartz countertops being nonporous, durable, and very resistant to penetration, you won’t have any problems with liquids or stains.
Quartz Because It Is Nonporous Will Not Harbor Bacteria or Viruses
Another benefit of quartz countertops being nonporous is that there isn’t a chance for bacteria or viruses to get lodged and fester on the surface.
With quartz countertops being nonporous, you won’t have to worry about bacteria or viruses because the material is so easy to clean.
There is nothing that could get lodged in the micropores of quartz countertops because they will be able to keep all liquids and grease, oil, and bacteria out.
This is just another reason why quartz countertops may be a good option for your home.
Having an easily cleanable surface is important for your countertops, especially when they are in the kitchen.
You don’t want to have any bacteria or viruses in the kitchen because the spread of germs could lead to food poisoning or other issues.
With quartz countertops being nonporous, you won’t have to worry about any bacteria or viruses.
Quartz Is Not Susceptible To Cleaner Damage
Another benefit to quartz countertops being nonporous is that the surface will not be damaged by any household cleaners.
You can use whatever household cleaner you would like on your quartz countertops without worrying about it damaging the material.
Quartz is so much more resistant to damage caused by household cleaners than any other countertop material like granite or marble.
With quartz countertops being nonporous, you will be able to use whatever cleaner you would like on them without worrying about any damage.
This is just another great reason to get quartz countertops for your kitchen and bathroom areas.
FAQs
Are Quartz Countertops Waterproof?
Yes, quartz countertops like all other stone and ceramic countertops are waterproof. They do not absorb liquids and all of the elements will stay on top of them, meaning they can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, and other wet areas.
Do Quartz Countertops Need To Be Sealed?
No, quartz countertops do not need to be sealed regularly. They will already have a protective coating that is applied to them in the factory. Sealing quartz countertops would be completely unnecessary and could lead to staining.
Do Quartz Countertops Need To Be Re-Polished?
No, quartz countertops do not need to be re-polished. They only need to be cleaned regularly and will not require any special polishing or sanding procedures in order to keep them looking nice.