We tend to confuse quartzite for quartz. Meanwhile, these are very much different materials. They both embody different characteristics, and clearly, one of them is the superior material for your countertop. So, in this guide, we will weigh both options, covering their key differences and advantages, so you can make better-informed decisions moving forward.

Quartzite: The basics

Quartzite is a metamorphic rock that you'd typically find almost everywhere. It is natural and it is formed when sandstone is naturally subject to significant pressure and heat. Quartzite has this glassy feeling that makes it seem like marble in several cases. This alluring appearance is what makes it a popular choice for countertops.

To make quartzite countertops, its slabs are naturally mined and cut to optimize their appeal. However, quartzite is very porous and permeable. As such, you cannot use it without a sealant. For this reason, the countertops usually feature acrylic or wax coatings.

Quartz: the basics

This is a much more versatile and durable alternative to quartzite. As opposed to quartzite, which is made from natural stone, quartz is manufactured with engineered stone. This stone features about 90% loose quartz with pigments and resins taking up the remaining percentage.

With the advancements in technology over the years, the elegance and arresting feeling of quartz can rival, or in fact, outshines what most natural stone can offer. You can make it resemble marble, granite, and other high-end countertop alternatives.

To make quartz countertops, the process may vary depending on the manufacturer. In terms of production, this material offers a form of versatility and flexibility, which undoubtedly influences the overall quality. With the state-of-the-art processes involved in the production, quartz makes a highly durable and arguably the more beautiful alternative to quartzite.

Quartz vs Quartzite

Quartz offers a seamless and hassle-free experience, much more than what quartzite has to offer. The perfect countertop choice for your kitchen is one that can maximize its overall experience. Considering the characteristics inherent to both materials, quartz shows superior ability to achieve that and more while quartzite is deemed less capable.

In terms of cleaning and maintenance demands, both materials also differ considerably. As mentioned before, quartzite uses sealants that tend to wear and demand replacement twice a year. Hence, the maintenance cost can be relatively higher.

But with quartz, you can expect a much more resilient material, which is inherently non-permeable and will not soak up water, even as it doesn't use a sealant.

However, when using both materials, you'd want to avoid abrasive cleaners as they could be detrimental to both their life spans.

Factoring in the costs, they both have similar processes. But when it comes to installation, quartzite, as a natural stone, demands more effort than what is attributable to Quartz. This makes quartz the cost-effective option. It’s also worth mentioning that quartz has a superior color option.

BottomLine – Quartz reigns supreme

By now, you should've already predicted quartz as the superior choice. The material shines in terms of customizability, an array of options, colors, appearance, maintenance requirements, and most importantly, costs and durability. So, want to take the first step, contact us here.