You are remodeling your kitchen and are trying to pick the perfect countertop solution. Quartz is a contender, but another material has caught your eye, it’s quartzite.
What is quartzite, and what do I need to know before I decide on a countertop material for my remodel?
First, if you want quartzite countertops, you must understand that these countertops are not the same as quartz countertops. Many get the two confused, but there is quite a substantial difference between the two. So, before going to a supplier and picking out your stone countertops, here are a few things to consider about quartzite countertops.
The Difference Between Quartz and Quartzite
Although the names of these stones sound similar, they are far from being the same. Quartz is an engineered stone made of quartz crystal that is heated and shaped into a slab used for kitchen countertops. It is also made of quartz minerals mixed with pigment and polymer resins. This allows you to get various colors of quartz for your kitchen countertops that may not be available in natural stones.
Quartzite comes from the mineral quartz. Like marble, quartzite develops from a metamorphic rock. It starts as sand and turns to sandstone after much heat and compression while in the earth’s crust. Quartzite is usually a white or light-colored stone.
Both marble and quartzite look very similar, and often quartzite is mistaken for marble. They are so similar that there must be a diagnostic test performed on the two to tell the difference. One great thing about quartzite compared to marble is that it is not as sensitive to acid as marble.
Quartzite Countertops is a Better Choice than Most Countertops
Quartzite countertops may not be as popular as other stone countertops. Still, there are many great reasons why you should choose this countertop for your kitchen. Quartzite is as strong as granite and has the classic look of marble. In addition, you don’t have to be as sensitive with items like vinegar and lemon juice when it comes to quartzite. This is because the quartz mineral makes quartzite stronger than marble.
Although quartz and quartzite are made of the same mineral, quartzite is very heat-resistant, unlike quartz. This is because the resins in quartz cannot withstand high heat, and the surface can be scorched or melted by things like hot plates or pans.
Quartzite is Very Durable and Low-Maintenance
Quartzite is a gorgeous natural stone that looks remarkably like marble. However, since it is less porous than marble, it is exceptionally durable, especially for high-traffic areas like the kitchen. Quartzite, unlike quartz, will need to be sealed like other natural stones to protect it. It would be best if you got it sealed at least twice a year for the best results.
Quartzite is Easy to Clean
Cleaning your quartzite countertops regularly is important. A damp microfiber cloth will usually do the trick with keeping quartzite clean. However, you may have to use mild soap and water to give your quartz countertop a good cleaning. Make sure that you rinse the area well after using the soap to minimize streaking and soap scum.
For tough stains left by wine, mustard, or the like, you can make a baking soda and water poultice to put over the stain covered with plastic. Using this paste mixture over a few days should extract the stain from the quartzite. Although quartzite doesn’t etch, this doesn’t mean that you should use any type of cleaner on them. If you decide to use cleaners other than soap and water, make sure they don’t contain abrasives or acids.
So, in summary, why should you get quartzite for your kitchen countertops? One reason is that it is a natural stone that is as exquisite as marble. Another reason is that even though it is as gorgeous as marble, it doesn’t have all the drawbacks like marble, namely the etching. One final great thing is it is durable like quartz but is much more heat-resistant. With so many great things about quartzite, you should consider using it in your next kitchen remodeling project.
Texas Granite Group can help with your remodel from start to finish. We have everything you need to make your vision come true including total countertop fabrication and installation. We handle the job from A-Z without sub-contractors.
As one of Texas’ premier countertop fabricators for over 20 years, we offer hundreds of slabs and a huge selection of colors including quartz, granite, and marble. Visit our amazing showroom in the Austin area and speak with one of our design specialists, Free!