Quartzite is one of the most popular materials that come to mind when it comes to kitchen countertops. It is often mistaken for quartz. Unlike quartz, quartzite is a natural stone that is formed under high temperatures and pressure. The sandstone recrystallized and silica cement binds them, forming interlocking quartz grains of immense strength. Quartzite can be quarried from several locations, so they look unique and fabulous. Quartzite is a fantastic option for anyone looking for an affordable natural stone countertop which is also very durable.
Let’s take a look into the pros and cons of quartzite countertops.
Quartzite Countertops Pros:
- Looks Beautiful: Quartzite is a beautiful natural stone that resembles marble. It comes in unique designs in a variety of colors which will increase the appeal of your kitchen. Quartzite generally has white to gray colors, but there can be a red, pink, yellow, green, blue, or orange presence in the stone. No matter which colors it contains, quartzite always has an eye-catching look. Natural stones are known for their unique veins and beautiful patterns. Quartzite will definitely add elegance to any surface it is used.
- Highly Durable: Quartzite is one of the hardest natural stones you can find on the market. It scores almost the same as granite in terms of hardness and durability. Although it is not harder than granite, quartzite scores a 7 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. The chemical property of this stone makes it highly resistant to water and acids. You will not see it break but beware that the edges tend to chip easier.
- Low Maintenance: Quartzite countertops are sealed during installation, making them easy to clean and maintain. The cleaning process of this natural stone does not require any unique product. Using just soap and warm water is more than enough to keep your countertops sparkling clean. Remember to avoid chemical-based cleaning materials to prevent any sort of damage to the sealant.
- UV Resistant: Quartzite is UV resistant, which means it won’t fade or be discolored when exposed to direct sunlight. So if you want to use quartzite in your outdoor projects, you are entirely safe.
- Affordable: Quartzite is more affordable than most other natural stones, especially granite, and marble. If you are looking for a durable and good-looking countertop material, quartzite is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable alternative.
Quartzite Countertops Cons:
- Prone to Scratches: There is no doubt that quartzite is strong and durable, but it can be damaged by sharp objects. They resist scratches, but we highly advise using cutting boards to protect your countertops.
- Porous: Like all natural stones, quartzite has a porous nature which means it has tiny holes along its surface. That is why quartzite is sealed during installation. If not, the spills or water can seep in, causing permanent stains or bacterial or fungal growth. Don’t worry; with proper sealing, you are completely safe. Remember to reseal these surfaces to protect your countertops.
- Difficult to Install: Quartzite requires diamond cutters to be cut, so it’s not friendly for DIY projects. Professionals should carefully install this hard, dense, and heavy material. We highly recommend working with a highly skilled fabricator who can also install your countertops.
- Not Resistant to Heat: Quartzite is not invulnerable to heat damage. The stone itself is resistant to heat. No, don’t worry, your countertops will not melt, but hot objects can burn the sealant and leave a stain. Using mats and trivets is strongly advised.
- Moderate Color Choices: Quartzite is a natural stone, so it doesn’t have as wide a color as some of the manufactured stones. Quartzite generally comes in shades of white or grey, but the impurities from other minerals form beautiful shapes and patterns.
Conclusion
Quartzite is a beautiful and versatile material, without a doubt. If you are interested in a natural stone countertop, quartzite is among the best choices with its durability, resilience, and affordable prices. With proper maintenance, you can be sure to have your countertops just like on day one. It is always important to check the pros and cons before investing in your homes, such as natural stone countertops. We have provided a list of the pros and cons of quartzite countertops to help you make a more informed decision. As you can see, quartzite countertops can bring you one step closer to creating your dream kitchen.
