Frequently Asked Questions
1. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN QUARTZ & GRANITE?
Quartz is manufactured with up to 93% natural quartz, one of the hardest minerals on earth. It is mixed with pigments and resins. Sealing is not needed.
Granite is about 40-60% quartz with other softer minerals. It is mined directly from the earth. Natural characteristics may include pits, fissures, and/or “beauty marks” as it is natural. Granite is porous and may stain. Your granite comes sealed and from time to time should be resealed after install.
2. DOES QUARTZ STAIN?
Quartz is nonporous and is resistant to staining and eliminates the need for any sealing. Its nonporous surface also greatly reduces the potential for bacterial growth from food absorbing into your countertop.
3. CAN I PUT HOT PANS ON QUARTZ?
Quartz can endure the everyday rigors of normal cooking temperatures for a short duration without the fear of scorching or burning, but it is still recommended to use hot pads and trivets. Do not place high-heat cookware, such as electric skillets, frying pans, griddles, or slow cookers directly on the surface without hot pads and trivets.
4. WHAT IS MAINTENANCE FOR QUARTZ?
Quartz is resistant to most stains including wine, lemon juice, tea, coffee, and fruits and vegetables. Normal cleaning requires only a damp cloth and a mild household detergent (such as those listed below). For best results, clean spills as soon as possible and dry the surface with a soft towel. Some generally accepted cleaning products for routine "Care and Maintenance" of Quartz include Windex® Multi-Surface Cleaner, Simple Green® (lime-scale remover), Diluted vinegar-type cleaners, Greased Lightning, Formula 409® Glass, and Surface Cleaner, Lysol® products.
5. WHAT IS MAINTENANCE FOR GRANITE?
Use coasters under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citrus juices. Many common foods and drinks contain acids that will etch or dull the surface of many stones. Do not place hot items directly on the stone surface. Use trivets or mats under hot dishes and placemats under china, ceramics, silver, or other objects that can scratch the surface. Clean stone surfaces with a few drops of neutral cleaner, stone soap, or a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. Use a soft cloth for best results. Too much cleaner or soap may leave a film and cause streaks. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar, or other acids on marble, limestone, or other calcareous stones. Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing and completely dry with a soft cloth to prevent streaks or watermarks. Do not use scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface. Stone is porous and should be sealed annually. Follow directions on stone sealers available at your hardware or home center store.
6. WHAT IS MAINTENANCE FOR CULTURED MARBLE?
For regular cleaning, use a cloth or sponge with your favorite non-abrasive household cleaner. The two most important aspects of cleaning are the hardness of the water and the frequency of cleaning. We recommend applying a protective/polishing product like Gel-Gloss™ after each cleaning. These products will continually make cleaning the shower easier because of the protective polish they leave on your Marble Works Cultured product.
7. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN VARIOUS QUARTZ BRANDS?
All brands of Quartz sold by Marble Works are of the highest quality and carry a minimum of a 10 Year Material Warranty. The biggest difference between manufacturers will be their color palettes.
8. WHAT BATHROOM PRODUCTS ARE AVAILABLE IN CULTURED MARBLE?
Cultured Marble is more than just beautiful, it offers flexibility in your design. It can be used to create Vanity Tops, Shower Bases, 3/8” Tub & Shower Walls, Tub Decks, Bathroom Accessories, 3/8” and ¾” Flat Stock, Window Sills, and more.
Marble Works Cultured Product is our most popular and versatile product offering for bathroom surfaces. It is a man-made marble with the look of real marble at a fraction of the cost.
Our cultured products are made with the latest technology in combining polymer resins with natural minerals in South Elgin, IL. Our experienced employees manufacture each piece with skill, precision detailing, and craftsmanship. This attention to detail for over 30 years has made Marble Works the choice among builders, contractors, and designers throughout the Midwest.