Quartz vs Quartzite Countertops: Which is Best for Your Kitchen?
You could be torn between quartz and quartzite when choosing a countertop material for your home renovation project. Although these two materials may have a similar appearance, they differ due to particular qualities and traits. Although quartz and quartzite are frequently used interchangeably, knowing the distinctions between the two is crucial for making an informed choice. We'll compare quartz vs. quartzite in-depth in this blog post, discussing things like their composition, durability, maintenance requirements, and overall aesthetic appeal.
Composition
Quartz and quartzite may have a similar appearance, but their compositions are very different. Quartzite is a naturally occurring stone that is manufactured from sandstone under extreme heat and pressure, whereas quartz is a manmade stone made from natural quartz crystals and polymer resins. In order to make engineered quartz slabs, quartz crystals are mined, ground into a fine powder, combined with resins, pigments, and other additives, and then poured into moulds. Quartzite, on the other hand, is created when sandstone is subjected to extreme heat and pressure, which causes the minerals to recrystallize and fuse together. The final stone has a distinctive structure and pattern that changes based on the minerals present throughout its creation and is exceptionally hard and long-lasting. Knowing the differences between quartz and quartzite's composition is crucial in choosing the right material for your project.
Maintenance
When choosing a countertop material, maintenance is a crucial consideration. Both quartz and quartzite require little maintenance, however, there are certain distinctions in how they should be handled. Quartz is very simple to clean and maintain because it is non-porous and does not require sealing. To get rid of any spills or stains, just wash the surface down with a moist cloth and mild soap or a cleaner designed especially for quartz. Quartzite, on the other hand, is a porous natural stone that needs to be periodically sealed in order to guard against stains and etching. To keep the surface protected, it's crucial to use a high-quality sealer and reapply it as directed by the manufacturer. It's advised to clean quartzite using a mild soap and water mixture or a stone-specific cleaner in addition to routine sealing to prevent scratching the surface.
Aesthetic appeal
When choosing a countertop material, you should consider the aesthetics of quartz and quartzite in addition to their composition and care needs. Quartz is an engineered stone, which means that a variety of colours and patterns are possible thanks to additions and pigments used in a controlled setting during production. As a result, you can choose from quartz countertops that resemble natural stone or ones that are bolder and more colourful. Quartzite, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring stone with distinctive patterns and hues that are influenced by the minerals that were present during its development. Each slab of quartzite is unique and features distinct variances in colour, pattern, and texture. The decision between quartz and quartzite may come down to personal preference and the overall design of your home, even though both stones offer magnificent aesthetics.
Cost
When choosing a countertop material, price is a significant consideration. Quartz and quartzite are priced differently. Due to the fact that quartz is an engineered stone that is created in a controlled setting, it is typically less expensive than quartzite. Quartz prices can vary depending on the material's grade, with higher-end choices often costing more. Quartzite, on the other hand, is a natural stone that is more scarce and challenging to mine than quartz. Due to the rarity of the stone and the complexity of the manufacturing, the price may increase, ranging from modest to high-end. It's critical to take into account the material's longevity and durability when estimating the cost, as well as its aesthetic appeal and upkeep requirements.
As countertop materials, quartz and quartzite each have specific benefits and drawbacks. Whereas quartzite is a naturally occurring stone with distinctive patterns and colours that is more porous and requires periodic sealing, quartz is a low-maintenance, non-porous substance with a wide range of colours and patterns. It's vital to think about things like maintenance requirements, aesthetics, cost, and durability while choosing between these two materials. The decision between quartz and quartzite will ultimately come down to personal taste and the particular needs of your remodelling project. To help you choose, browse from our collection of quartz and quartzite.