Update June 16th, 2024
If you’re considering a kitchen or bathroom remodel, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right countertop material.
Quartz and Quartzite are two very popular choices. So which one is better ?
I am calling this my best guide for Quartzite Vs Quartz countertop.
Quartzite is a natural stone that originates from sandstone while quartz countertops are man-made. They’re engineered from crushed quartz crystals combined with resin and other synthetic materials.
Once you are done reading this, you will know everything about Quartzite and Quartz.
In this Article I will cover :
- Which one is more heat resistant ?
- Which one requires least maintenance ?
- Which One is more durable ?
- Cost differences
- FAQs
- A complete video explaining the differences
Let’s get started…..
This post is about The Best Guide: Quartzite vs Quartz countertop
How is Quartzite formed ?
Quartzite is a natural stone.
It’s a metamorphic rock, born from sandstone under intense heat and pressure.
Each slab is one-of-a-kind, and they are available in gorgeous colors and patterns.
How is Quartz Made ?
First, workers mine quartz crystals from the earth.
These crystals are ground into tiny pieces or even powder. This ground-up quartz makes up about 90% of the countertop.
Next, the ground quartz is mixed with other materials.
This includes a little bit of pigment for color and about 10% resin to hold everything together.
This mixture is then poured into a mold that’s the shape of a countertop.
After this, the countertop is baked (or “cured”) in a special oven. This hardens the mixture and makes it shiny.
After it’s cooled, the countertop is polished and then it’s ready to be installed in a kitchen or bathroom.
Differences between Quartzite & Quartz
Appearance :
Quartzite has unique Appearance: As a natural stone, each piece of quartzite is unique with its own pattern, giving your countertops a distinctive look.
Quartz maintains consistency : Quartz offers design consistency, which means you’ll know what to expect in terms of its appearance.
Which One is more durable: Quartz or Quartzite ?
When is comes to durability both quartzite and quartz are very similar.
- Quartzite is incredibly tough and durable. It is harder than granite, making it resistant to scratches and chips.
- Quartz is an extremely hard and durable material. It is resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas.
Which one is more heat resistant ?
Quartzite is more heat resistant than quartz.
Quartzite is highly resistant to heat, which is especially useful in a kitchen environment. You can place hot pots and pans directly onto a quartzite.
Quartz countertop are heat resistant but not heat proof. Very hot items can react with the resin and cause damage.
Pros and Cons of Quartzite and Quartz
Quartzite (a natural stone):
Pros of Quartzite Countertops:
Durability: Quartzite is extremely durable, even more so than granite. It resists scratches and can handle heat well.
Unique Look: Each slab of quartzite is naturally unique, giving your countertops a distinct and one-of-a-kind appearance.
Long-Lasting: With proper maintenance and sealing, quartzite can last a lifetime.
Resistant to UV rays: It’s a good choice for outdoor applications because it doesn’t discolor when exposed to the sun.
Cons of Quartzite Countertops
Requires Maintenance: While it is durable, quartzite is porous and can stain if not properly sealed. Regular resealing is necessary.
Limited Color Palette: Quartzite usually comes in shades of white and gray. Other colors may be available but not as commonly.
Expensive: It tends to be more expensive than many other countertop materials.
Can be brittle: Especially the edges can chip if hit with something hard.
Quartz (an engineered stone):
Pros of Quartz Countertops:
Non-Porous: Quartz is a non-porous material, which makes it resistant to stains and doesn’t require any sealing.
Variety: As it is man-made, quartz is available in a wider variety of colors and designs.
Durability: It’s highly resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks.
Low Maintenance: Quartz does not require the periodic sealing that natural stones do.
Cons of Quartz Countertops:
Not Heat Resistant: Quartz can be damaged by excessive heat, so hot pots and pans should not be placed directly on the surface without a trivet or hot pad.
Appearance: Some people feel that, despite the variety of options, quartz doesn’t have the same depth or natural beauty as stones like quartzite or granite.
Sensitive to Chemicals: Strong chemicals and solvents like bleach can damage its surface.
UV Sensitivity: Quartz may discolor over time when exposed to direct sunlight, so it’s not the best option for outdoor installations.
Here is a quick table for reference.
Cost Differences : Quartzite Vs Quartz Countertops
The cost of both quartzite and quartz can vary widely based on a number of factors, including quality, thickness, color, finish, the complexity of the installation, and the market conditions at the time of purchase.
Quartzite
Quartzite generally ranges from about $60 to $120 per square foot, including installation.
The most common factors that influence the price of quartzite include:
Quality: Higher quality slabs, with fewer imperfections and more interesting patterns or colors, will typically be more expensive.
Thickness: Thicker slabs of quartzite are more expensive than thinner ones.
Finish: Polished, honed, or leathered finishes can affect the price.
Source: The country of origin and how far the material has to be shipped can impact the cost.
Installation: The complexity of the installation can also affect the price. A simple straight edge will be less expensive than a complex beveled edge, for example.
Quartz
The price for quartz countertops generally ranges from about $50 to $150 per square foot, including installation. Factors that influence the price of quartz include:
Brand: There are many different brands of quartz, and prices can vary significantly from one to another.
Color and Pattern: Some colors and patterns are more expensive than others. This is generally due to the complexity of creating certain looks.
Finish: Like quartzite, the finish (polished, honed, etc.) can affect the price.
Installation: The complexity of the installation also plays a role in the cost of quartz countertops.
Please note that these prices are estimates and can vary based on your location and the specifics of your project.
Always get quotes from a few different sources before making a decision.
How to Clean Quartzite and Quartz ?
Daily Cleaning:
For either one of them, Wipe the surface with a soft cloth or sponge.
You can dampen it with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap if necessary.
Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners, as these can scratch or dull the surface.
Deep Cleaning:
Quartzite,: For tough stains, you can use a stone cleaner specifically designed for natural stone. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Quartz : For tougher stains, you can use a non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid anything with bleach or other harsh chemicals.
YOU MAY LIKE TO READ THIS : QUARTZ COUNTERTOP CARE, DO I REALLY NEED TO SEAL THEM
Re-Sealing:
Quartzite should be re-sealed periodically to maintain its resistance to stains. This is typically done every 1-2 years, but the frequency can depend on the specific stone and how heavily it’s used.
No Need to Seal: Unlike quartzite, quartz is non-porous and does not need to be sealed.
You can watch this video by HS Design Studio
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Which one is the best choice ?
In the great quartzite vs. quartz debate, there’s no clear winner.
Both offer unique advantages and disadvantages, so it’s all about what suits your home, lifestyle, and budget the best.
To make the best decision, consider not only the initial cost but also the long-term maintenance requirements and the overall aesthetic appeal.
FAQs:
Is quartzite cheaper than quartz?
Not usually. Quartzite is a natural stone and typically more expensive than quartz.
Does quartzite require more maintenance than quartz?
Yes, quartzite requires more upkeep than quartz. Quartzite needs to be sealed regularly to protect it from stains and etching, while quartz doesn’t require this treatment.
Which one is more durable, quartzite or quartz?
Both materials are durable, but they excel in different areas. Quartzite is more heat resistant, while quartz is more resistant to stains.
Can I put hot pans directly on quartz or quartzite countertops?
It’s safe to put hot pans on quartzite, but not recommended for quartz as it may cause damage.
Does Quartzite stain easily?
Quartzite can stain if not properly sealed. Regular sealing can help to maintain its stain resistance.
Can Quartzite and Quartz be used in bathrooms?
Yes, both Quartzite and Quartz are suitable for use in bathrooms due to their water-resistant properties.
Which is more eco-friendly, Quartzite or Quartz?
Quartzite, being a natural stone, has a lower environmental impact in terms of production. However, Quartz can be more efficient in transportation and installation.
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