Quartz countertops are a popular choice in kitchens and bathrooms everywhere, noted for their durability, natural beauty and luxurious feel.

They are an investment, and as a result require a certain level of care and attention to keep them looking as good as new.

A specialist will advise you that over time quartz can discolour for a range of reasons, some of which you may experience.

With that in mind, we will discuss here why it happens and identify the precautions that you can take.

Soap

Quartz is a non-porous stone, and many homeowners believe it cannot be damaged by soap.

However, the reality is that fading and stains can occur over time.

Some soaps contain chemicals, such as bleach or other alkaline-based compositions, that can affect the resin used in a lot of quartz countertops.

Equally, residue from soap - in the form of a hard, white substance - can leave yours looking dull and hazy.

It builds up after dripping from washed crockery onto a surface and dries quickly before you have an opportunity to wipe it clear.

The best way to avoid an accumulation that impacts negatively on the appearance of your quartz worktop is to use soap only sparingly, particularly when cleaning.

Direct heat

Although quartz is extremely durable, it is never recommended to expose your countertop to direct heat by placing a hot pan on top or a tray straight from the oven.

These objects can potentially cause a surface to become discoloured if they are left  for too long.

For that reason, it is advised to use a trivet, cutting board or a heat-resistant mat to maintain the quality of your worktop.

Hard water

According to research, around 60 per cent of the UK is classified as having hard, or very hard, water which contains minerals such as iron, calcium and magnesium.

When it is used on quartz countertops and then evaporates, the deposits left behind are not only tough to remove but can cause discololuring.

Often, it can ruin the natural stone aesthetic so much so that homeowners are left believing that their worktops are damaged beyond repair.

Ensuring that yours is always dry after cleaning is the best way to avoid these unsightly deposit stains.

But,  if hard water has stained your countertop, you may have to hire a specialist cleaner to restore its lost lustre.

Cleaning products

Regardless of how well your quartz countertops are sealed, if you use a cleaning product with a high acidic content they can become discoloured.

Constant exposure to these chemicals over time risks corroding the polished surface, leaving a dull and faded appearance that will often reduce its lifespan.

Using mild soap, or detergent mixtures, with a soft cloth is always the most effective way of keeping your surface clean and the colours clear and bright.

Sunlight

Because quartz is made using polyester resin, over time you may start to notice some discolouration - particularly in lighter coloured countertops.

On average, it takes less than a year of daily sunlight for a quartz worktop to fade.

The epoxy used to bind the quartz breaks down when exposed to UV light, causing a colour change.

Although they tend to be affected less, darker examples are vulnerable in the same way.

Quartz countertops are chosen by homeowners for their natural beauty.

If you are concerned about discolouration, or have any questions about how to look after your worktops, then we would always recommend to speak to a manufacturer or installer with specialist knowledge.

At Granite & Quartz Installations, we offer fittings nationwide for a broad range of durable countertops that suit any space.

To find out more about what we do, or to obtain a quote for an upcoming project, get in touch with us by sending an email to info@graniteandquartzinstallations.co.uk