The Complete Lowdown on Quartzite Countertop Pros and Cons
quartzite has become a sought after material for kitchen and bathroom countertops. But like all natural stone, quartzite has both advantages and disadvantages to consider before committing to this luxurious surface.
We'll cover everything from quartzite's standout benefits like scratch resistance to potential drawbacks like required maintenance. Read on for the full lowdown so you can decide if quartzite is the right material for your next countertop project.
What is Quartzite?
Before diving into the pros and cons, it helps to understand exactly what quartzite is. Quartzite begins as sandstone, a sedimentary rock formed from compressed quartz sand grains. Over time, heat and pressure metamorphose the sandstone into quartzite through a process called recrystallization.
Recrystallization fuses the quartz particles together, forming an extremely hard and durable crystalline structure. This is why quartzite rates 7-8 on the Mohs hardness scale, outperforming many natural stones in toughness and durability.
The key distinction between quartzite and engineered quartz is that quartzite is 100% natural. It comes directly from quarries as raw slabs that are later fabricated into countertops. Engineered quartz blends natural quartz with pigments and resins to create a manufactured slab.
Quartzite Countertop Benefits
Now that we understand the geological origins of quartzite, let's examine some of its outstanding qualities that make it a premier countertop choice.
Extreme Durability and Hardness
The predominant benefit of quartzite is its incredible durability. Thanks to its heavily compressed crystals, quartzite is extraordinarily resilient against scratches, etching from acids, and normal wear and tear.
You can confidently place hot pans on quartzite and cut directly on its surface without damage. Quartzite countertops can withstand years of heavy daily use while maintaining their smooth, pristine finish.
In side-by-side comparisons, quartzite performs equal to or better than granite in strength and scratch resistance tests. This hardness makes it very unlikely to chip or crack under normal use.
Quartzite also has permanent stain resistance. Liquids don't easily penetrate the dense surface, making quartzite an ideal choice for kitchens prone to oil splatters and wine spills. The low porosity means stains wipe away easily.
Heat and Impact Resistance
You don't have to worry about quartzite countertops around hot cookware or baking dishes fresh from the oven. Quartzite can withstand temperatures up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit without issue. You can remove boiling pots and pans or baking sheets directly from the oven and place them on quartzite.
Quartzite also stands up well to impacts. Dropping heavy objects like cast iron cookware is never recommended, but quartzite is less prone to chipping or cracking than softer natural stones. For busy kitchens, quartzite provides peace of mind.
Visual Appeal
With its crystalline patterns and luminous natural gleam, quartzite delivers the beauty and elegance of a high-end natural stone. But unlike marble, quartzite offers a more muted, refined aesthetic that seamlessly integrates into modern and contemporary spaces.
While limited compared to granite, quartzite comes in a pleasing palette of neutral whites, grays, tans and beiges. The tone has depth and movmement to add natural character without overwhelming a space.
Quartzite's soft yet strong visual presence suits a wide range of design aesthetics from modern farmhouse to urban chic.
Potential Downsides of Quartzite
For all its advantages, quartzite countertops also come with some considerations to keep in mind, from the initial investment to proper care.
Expense
As a premium natural stone, quartzite sits at the higher end of the countertop price spectrum. Expect to pay $70-$150 per square foot installed. This makes quartzite more expensive than mid-range options like granite or engineered quartz.
The cost varies based on the specific type of quartzite. Rare, imported varieties can reach upwards of $200 per square foot. Thicker slabs, intricate edge details, and complex installations will also drive up the price.
For many homeowners, the outstanding durability and luxury aesthetic offset the higher initial quartzite costs.
Maintenance Requirements
While durable, quartzite still requires some regular care and maintenance. Most experts recommend sealing quartzite countertops every 12 months using a penetrating sealer.
Sealing fills microscopic pores in the stone to prevent liquids from absorbing into the surface and causing stains. It also boosts stain resistance. Be sure to thoroughly clean and dry the quartzite before sealing.
In addition to sealing, quartzite needs cleaning using non-abrasive soaps and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners that can damage the surface. With proper care, quartzite maintains its beauty.
Limited Color Range
While quartzite spans the white and gray color spectrum, it doesn't offer the vivid hues and dramatic veining found in some marbles and granites. If you love bold blues, greens, reds or swirls, quartzite may disappoint.
The neutral and subdued palette has advantages too - quartzite integrates beautifully into almost any design aesthetic. But for those desiring vibrant colors, engineered quartz or granite may be preferable.
Heavier than Some Alternatives
At 115-130 pounds per square foot, quartzite countertops are manageable but heavier than ceramic, laminate, or lighter natural stones. Ensure existing cabinetry can support the weight.
Hire experienced professionals for installation. Seams may be required for larger expanses to allow manageable section weights. Proper support prevents future cracking or collapse.
Should You Choose Quartzite Countertops?
Quartzite offers an outstanding blend of strength, beauty, and maintenance ease. But is it right for your home or project? Here are some final considerations as you weigh up whether to install quartzite.
Quartzite is an ideal choice for busy kitchens needing maximum durability paired with timeless elegance. Home chefs will appreciate quartzite's resilience against stains, scratches, and heat.
If you love the look of marble but require more ruggedness, quartzite beautifully mimics the smooth white veining without the fragility. Its understated palette integrates gracefully into designs from modern to traditional.
Expect to pay more for quartzite versus ceramic, laminate or granite. But its longevity provides return on investment. If maintaining a sealed surface is unappealing, engineered quartz makes a lower-maintenance alternative.
Ultimately quartzite blends strength, endurance, and subtle beauty into one exceptional natural stone. It's a top contender for discerning homeowners valuing quality materials with everyday luxury.
Caring for Your Quartzite Countertops
To keep quartzite surfaces pristine for years to come, proper care and cleaning habits are important. Here are some tips for maintaining your quartzite:
- Clean spills promptly with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads.
- Disinfect surfaces occasionally with diluted bleach or a quartzite-safe disinfectant.
- Reseal every 12 months using a penetrating mineral sealer made for natural stone.
- If etching occurs from acids, consult a stone pro about sanding/polishing out the damage.
- Avoid exposing quartzite to strong chemicals like paint removers, oven cleaners or drain openers.
- Use trivets or hot pads under very hot pots and pans to prevent thermal shock.
With routine sealing and gentle cleaning, your quartzite countertops will withstand years of cooking, eating and living.
Stylish & Functional Quartzite Countertops
While valued for its ruggedness, quartzite also delivers covetable good looks. Here are some design ideas to complement the beauty of quartzite:
- Play up contrasts pairing white quartzite with black hardware and accents.
- Choose brass fixtures and warm wood tones to soften cool toned gray quartzite.
- Blend quartzite counters with backsplash materials like marble subway tile.
- Opt for undermount sinks to create a sleek, seamless look.
- Illuminate surfaces with pendant or recessed lighting to enhance quartzite's luminescence.
Popular high-end varieties like Calacatta Laza, Calacatta Lincoln and the swirling tones of Taj Mahal provide gorgeous, unique surfaces sure to elevate any space.
FAQs about Quartzite Countertops
Some common questions about quartzite include:
Is quartzite porous?
Quartzite has very low porosity, especially when sealed. Liquids have difficulty penetrating the dense crystalline structure, making stains unlikely.
How heavy is a quartzite slab?
Quartzite slabs weigh 115-130 pounds per square foot, making them manageable but heavier than some natural stones.
Does quartzite need to be sealed?
Yes, annual sealing is recommended to boost stain resistance. Sealing fills tiny pores and creates a repellent barrier.
Quartzite can etch from prolonged acid exposure. Sealants help protect surfaces. Light etching can often be polished out.
For a surface that combines rugged performance with luxurious aesthetics, quartzite is hard to beat. With proper care and maintenance, quartzite countertops will stay looking pristine while withstanding years of daily use.
If you seek a material blending strength, beauty and durability, quartzite is a modern yet timeless choice guaranteed to impress.