Quartzite and quartz kitchen tops are the most popular and solid countertops used in households. They are loved for their natural look because they are made from natural stones. The two of them have some differences too which can weigh in your decision to buy either of them.
Quartz Kitchen Countertops
Quartz and granite countertops are probably the first choices for many people when they are going for a kitchen remodel. Other than granite and quartzite, the quartz stone is popularly used in kitchens. Quartz provides a very basic and natural look that catches the eye. It is made from the amalgamation of stone chips and then mixed with pigments to make it look natural to be used as countertops. The quartz countertops are actually man-made but give a natural look which is the main difference between quartzite and quartz.
Beautiful and strong, there are many characteristics that a quartz countertop has that you might want to know before hiring a quartz countertop dealer.
Appearance
Due to the impurities like pigment and resins added in the making of quartz countertops, it is available in a wide range of colors and many options to choose from. The patterns may differ quite often and it is hard to find a quartz countertop that is similar. However, the still man-made material gives a very natural look as marble or granite would do.
Durability
Quartz countertops are very sturdy and hard but a little flexible due to its manufacturing. It is a very durable piece of material to put in your kitchen because it is hard to dent or chip. That’s why it is preferred. However, if you are not careful, it can get scratched with sharp objects like a knife.
Maintenance
Maintenance is an important part to prolong the life of this stone. It is obviously protected with sealants at the time of installation which does all the work regarding the protection but daily maintenance is still required. This countertop can be easily cleaned with a clean and dry cloth without using abrasive products which can damage the sealant. Use the cleaners that specifies a quartz-friendly nature.
Porosity
Quartz is a natural mineral, however, quartz countertops are called engineered because many other things are also added when they are made. It actually helps quartz countertops to avoid the flaw natural stone countertops have – number one of them s porosity. Quartz countertops are non-porous, which makes them easy to clean and maintain.
Quartzite Kitchen Countertops
Quartzite doesn’t incorporate any synthetic materials in its manufacturing and hence results in a very natural-looking countertop. When it is mined in large quantities, it is processed and turned into beautiful slabs. Quartzite stones have been used in home floorings, wall tiles and countertops. Here are few of its characteristics in comparison to quartz kitchen tops.
Appearance
Due to the natural mining and processing of these stones, the color range of quartzite stones is not much. Usually, they are available in white and grey shades but other colors are the results of the minerals like iron oxide found in the stones. They provide a very minimalistic aesthetic.
Durability
Other than beauty, the quartzite stone is also a hardened stone like granite. It can withstand chipping and heating very easily. However, it can be scratched with sharp objects just like quartz countertops.
Maintenance
Quartzite needs more maintenance than quartz countertops. It is easy to clean when the seal is on otherwise the stains can slip through. It also requires resealing at least twice a year so that it doesn’t get damaged.
Porosity
As quartzite is a natural stone material like granite and marble, it is porous. It looks much like marble and is more durable and stain resistant that marble countertops. However, due to porosity, they fall behind quartz in many cases especially when you’re look for low maintenance kitchen countertops.
Final Verdict
Quartzite and quartz countertops are durable and beautiful material to be placed in your kitchen. The difference is mainly of the authenticity of the use of natural stones as quartz is mostly a blend of synthetic materials. In terms of variety and maintenance, quartz comes out on top, however, if you want something that is 100% natural and luxurious material, quartzite is your best friend. Do get advice from quartz countertops dealer Potomac because making your final decision.
