Quartz countertops are a popular choice for homeowners because they look great and are relatively low-maintenance. However, if your quartz countertop is cracking, you may be wondering what went wrong. In this article, we will explore the possible causes of quartz countertop cracking and provide some solutions to fix the problem.
Reasons Why Your Quartz Countertop Is Cracking
There are a few simple reasons and not so simple reasons why your quartz countertop might be cracking. Below are a few of the most common causes:
1. The Quartz Countertop May Be Low Quality
If you purchased your quartz countertop from a less than the reputable source, it may be made of lower quality materials that are more susceptible to cracking.
These will generally include quartz countertops made from less quality materials such as recycled glass or concrete.
When quartz countertops are made from lower-quality materials, they may not be as strong and durable as those made from higher-quality materials. As a result, they may be more likely to crack under pressure or with extended use.
If you suspect that your quartz countertop is made from lower-quality materials, you should contact the manufacturer to inquire about a replacement.
When shopping for a quartz countertop, be sure to do your research and buy from a trusted retailer. Some of the most reputable top-quality quartz countertop brands in the world include;
- Caesarstone
- Silestone
- Cambria
- Zodiaq
- Hanstone
- LG Viatera
- Corian Quartz
- MSI Q Quartz
If you are unsure about a particular brand, you can always ask your retailer for more information or look up online reviews.
When it comes to quartz countertops, you usually get what you pay for. So, if you find a quartz countertop that is significantly cheaper than the others, it is likely made from lower-quality materials.
2. Poor Installation
Another possible reason why your quartz countertop is cracking could be due to poor installation. If the countertop was not installed properly, it may not be able to support the weight of heavy objects placed on it or withstand the wear and tear of daily use.
As a result, cracks may start to form in the quartz countertop. If you suspect that your quartz countertop was not installed properly, you should contact the company who installed it and ask for a repair or replacement.
When having a quartz countertop installed, be sure to hire a professional with experience installing this type of countertop. If you try to install it yourself, you may not do it correctly and could end up causing more damage.
If your quartz countertop was installed by a professional, but you are still having problems, you may want to contact the manufacturer for assistance.
They may be able to provide you with instructions on how to properly fix the problem or recommend a professional who can help.
3. Sudden Changes In Temperature
Sudden changes in temperature can also cause quartz countertops to crack. If your quartz countertop frequently gets exposed to extreme changes in temperature, such as from hot pans being placed on it or the sun shining directly on it to freezing temperatures, it may start to crack over time.
This is because these sudden temperature changes cause the quartz countertop to expand and contract too rapidly leaving it susceptible to cracking.
To help prevent your quartz countertop from cracking due to sudden temperature changes, you should avoid placing hot pans directly on it and keep it out of direct sunlight.
You should also use coasters or trivets when placing hot pans or other objects on the quartz countertop or avoid placing them on the countertop altogether.
If you live in a colder climate, or during the cold winters, you may also want to use placemats or coasters under hot cups and bowls to help prevent the quartz countertop from being exposed to extreme changes in temperature.
4. Extreme Heat
Extreme heat can also cause quartz countertops to crack. If you place hot pans, oven, toaster, etc directly on the quartz countertop, it can cause the surface to crack.
This is to say only sudden changes can cause cracks on the surface of your quartz countertop but exposure to extreme heat for a long time can also do the same.
To prevent your quartz countertop from cracking due to extreme heat, you should always use a trivet or coaster when placing hot pans or other objects on the surface.
You should also avoid putting anything hot directly on the quartz countertop, such as an oven or toaster. If you live in a warmer climate, you may also want to keep your quartz countertop out of direct sunlight to prevent it from being exposed to extreme heat.
5. Placing Ice Bags Directs On Quartz Countertop
Similarly, not only sudden temperature changes or extreme heat can cause your quartz countertop to crack but extreme cold can also do damage.
For example, if you place an ice bag directly on your quartz countertop, it can cause the surface to eventually crack if this is something you do very often. This is because the extreme cold causes the quartz countertop to contract too rapidly and become susceptible to cracking.
Not only is this science but common sense. Sudden changes in temperature, whether it be heat or cold can damage most materials, including your quartz countertop.
To prevent your quartz countertop from cracking due to extreme cold, you should avoid placing ice bags directly on the surface.
6. Putting Too Much Weight On The Quartz Countertop
Putting too much weight on the quartz countertop can also cause your quartz countertops to crack. If you place a heavy object, such as a cast-iron skillet, on the quartz countertop, it can cause the surface to crack.
Also, if you sit, stand, or lean on the quartz countertop, it can also cause the surface to crack. This is because quartz countertops are not designed to support a lot of weight and sitting, standing, or leaning on the countertop can put too much pressure on the surface causing it to crack.
Quartz is an engineered stone and is made of 93% ground quartz and binders. It is one of the hardest minerals on Earth, however, it can still crack if too much pressure or weight is put on the surface.
To prevent your quartz countertop from cracking due to weight or pressure, you should avoid placing heavy objects on the surface and avoid sitting, standing, or leaning on the countertop.
7. Heavy Vibrating Appliance
If you have heavy vibrating appliances a dishwasher or washing machine installed on or near your quartz countertop, it can cause the surface to crack.
The vibrations from these appliances over a long period of time can be transferred to the quartz countertop and over time can cause the surface to develop cracks.
This becomes even worse if seams are positioned near parts of the quartz countertop where appliances are installed. This means that the constant vibrations from the appliances can cause the seams to separate and eventually crack.
To prevent your quartz countertop from cracking due to vibrations, you should avoid installing heavy vibrating appliances near or on the surface of your quartz countertop.
You should also avoid positioning seams in areas where these appliances are installed as this can make the problem worse.
How To Fix Cracks On A Quartz Countertop
One of the first things you need to understand is that there is a high possibility you might not be able to fix the cracks on your quartz countertop.
This is because quartz is a very hard material and once it cracks, it can be difficult to repair. In some cases, the only way to fix cracked quartz is to replace the entire countertop.
Before you attempt to fix the cracks on your quartz countertop, you should consult with a professional to see if it is even possible to repair the cracks. If you are determined to try and fix the cracks on your quartz countertop, there are a few things you can do.
The first thing you can do is clean the surface of the quartz countertop. This will help ensure that any dirt or debris does not get into the cracks and make them worse. After you have done the cleaning, here’s what you can do;
Use A Clear Resin
You can use a clear resin to fill in the cracks on your quartz countertop. This is one of the most popular methods to fix cracks as it is not only effective but also invisible. To use this method,
- You will need to mix the clear resin with a hardener.
- Then apply it to the cracks using a syringe.
- Once the resin has dried, you can sand it down to make it flush with the surface of the quartz countertop.
Once you have done this successfully, your quartz countertop should look as good as new.
Use Epoxy
Another popular method to fix cracks on quartz countertops is by using epoxy. This method is similar to the clear resin method, but the epoxy is not transparent. To use this method;
- You will need to purchase some epoxy from your local hardware store and mix it according to the instructions on the package.
- Then, apply the mixed epoxy to the crack using a putty knife or similar tool.
- Allow the epoxy to dry completely before using the countertop again.
This can help to fill in the cracks and make them less visible.
Use Acrylic Adhesive
You can also use an acrylic adhesive to fill in the cracks on your quartz countertop. This method is similar to the clear resin and epoxy methods, but the acrylic adhesive is not as strong. To use this method;
- You will need to purchase some acrylic adhesive from your local hardware store.
- Next, clean the area around the cracks with soapy water and a sponge.
- Once the area is clean, apply the acrylic adhesive to the cracks.
- Use a putty knife or your fingers to spread the adhesive evenly.
- Let the adhesive dry for 24 hours before using your countertop again.
The above-mentioned methods including clear resin, acrylic adhesive, or epoxy will be able to fix small cracks and fissures that you may have on your quartz countertops.
Final Words
If you were in such a dilemma with your quartz and were confused about why your quartz countertop is cracking, I hope after reading this article, you have a better understanding. There are many reasons that can contribute to your quartz countertop cracking including;
- Vibrations from heavy appliances
- Seams in areas where these appliances are installed, etc.
Quartz is a very hard material and once it cracks, it can be difficult to repair.
Use a clear resin, epoxy, or acrylic adhesive to fill in the cracks if the cracks or fissures are small but you would want to call a professional if the cracks are big.
I hope you found this article helpful! If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to answer them. Thanks for reading!