With so many natural stone countertop options to choose from, it may be daunting to figure out which one is right for your home. Granite, quartz, marble, and quartzite all have different pros and cons that make them unique and personalized to fit any home.
Quartzite has become a popular countertop choice in recent years because of its simple yet appealing and modern design. Quartzite countertops offer many benefits for homeowners, especially if you’re looking for a durable stone that’s still aesthetically pleasing.
Whether you’re shopping for bathroom or kitchen countertops, quartzite is an excellent, long-lasting investment. Here are our top reasons why you should choose quartzite countertops and how quartzite compares to other natural stones.
What Is Quartzite?
Quartzite stone is a metamorphic rock that forms under intense heat and pressure. It’s made from a combination of sandstone and quartz. The high temperatures beneath the earth’s surface recrystallize the sand grains in the rock, as well as the silica that binds them together. This results in interlocking quartz grains that form a very strong and durable rock.
In its natural state, quartzite is a very porous stone. Once quartzite slabs are mined for countertops, they must be sealed with polyurethane, wax, or acrylic to work effectively as a kitchen or bathroom surface. The sealant gives quartzite its glassy appearance, allowing it to resemble other natural stones like marble.
Benefits of Quartzite Countertops
There are many benefits to quartzite that make it a great option for countertops. With its simple design, quartzite can bring a certain uniqueness to any contemporary home. Here are some advantages of quartzite to consider.
Cost
The cost of quartzite does tend to be more than other natural stones like granite. This is because quartzite is a tough stone, so the price is higher for shaping and installation. Fortunately for marble lovers, quartzite is a more affordable option. Quartzite is comparable to marble in appearance but is less expensive.
Durability
Countertop space in a kitchen or bathroom sees a lot of activity. Between cooking, spills, and normal wear-and-tear, you want something that will be durable for a long time. Properly taking care of your countertops can ensure that they remain in good condition.
Quartzite is a harder stone, so it has higher durability. There is little chance of having short-term problems with quartzite because it’s resistant to scratching, heat, water, and acids that cause etching. If you do happen to scratch the surface of your quartzite countertop, the stone’s natural veining can help cover up minor scrapes.
Low Maintenance
Because quartzite countertops are sealed to fill in any pores or holes, they are easy to clean and maintain. Soap and water will adequately clean most spills, or you can try a natural stone cleaner. The sealant also protects against any bacteria or mold that could grow over time, allowing your kitchen or bathroom to be a healthier space for your family.
Quartzite does require yearly sealant and frequent polishing maintenance, but with proper upkeep and cleaning, your countertops will remain in great condition for a long time.
Heat and UV Ray Resistant
Quartzite is a natural stone produced under extreme temperatures and pressure, so it’s more resistant to heat from hot pans and dishes. If you set a hot pan on your quartzite countertop and forget the pot holder, your countertop won’t be damaged.
Additionally, quartzite countertops are great options for outdoor kitchen spaces or counters exposed to a lot of natural light. Quartzite is UV resistant, so it won’t fade or darken when exposed to direct sunlight. Make sure to keep your outdoor spaces clean with an outdoor stone cleaner.
Design
Quartzite is only available in neutral colors such as beige, brown, white, gray, and black. Although quartzite has a smaller color selection than other natural stone options, there are still many ways to personalize the stone to match your home.
Your countertop can still offer a lot of versatility since quartzite can have many different color variations in earthy and neutral tones. This is because the stone’s shades depend on its mineral content. Quartzite also offers a natural look with unique streaks and veins. Though quartzite is simpler in pattern, it’s an excellent choice for a modern home design.
Quartzite vs. Other Natural Countertops
You may be thinking that quartzite and quartz must be closely related, but they are only similar in namesake. While quartz is an engineered stone mixed with resins and pigments, quartzite is a natural stone formed through high pressure beneath the earth’s surface.
Quartzite can easily be confused with marble since both are formed under metamorphic processes and have similar appearances. However, quartzite is much stronger and more durable than marble. Compared to other natural stones, such as granite, quartzite is a lot tougher.
If you’re looking to install new countertops in your home, you may consider quartzite for its durability and aestheticism. Although some maintenance is involved, quartzite is the perfect material if you want something simple and tough.
Rock Doctor offers a complete line of natural stone products. We have what you need to keep your quartzite countertops clean, polished, and protected. We can also answer any questions you may have about your natural stone countertop options. Browse our full line of products at rockdoctor.com or contact us at 913-894-0288.
