Countertops are one of the most important design elements in every kitchen or bathroom area. The visual aesthetics and functionality they provide is priceless. Two of the most common materials for countertops are quartz and quartzite. Their related names often cause confusion. It is extremely important to pick the right material that fits your design choices and life style. In this post we are going to delve into comparing quartz and quartzite countertops in depth. First, let’s take a look at what they are.
Understanding Quartz and Quartzite: What Sets Them Apart?
Quartz is an engineered stone and they are fabricated by mixing natural quartz crystals with resins, polymers and pigments. The resulting material is a non-porous and durable stone which is suitable for making countertops. The resin and pigments can be manipulated to give unique coloration and patterning to the stone. Which means, you can get a quartz countertop tailored to your design preferences.
Quartzite on the other hand, is a natural stone. Quartzite is a natural stone which classifies as a metamorphic rock. As all natural stones, quartzite has a porous nature. That is why quartzite countertops requires sealing and resealing in periods to keep their good looks. As a natural stone, their looks are unique. The colors, intricate patterns and veining are all formed naturally, making quartzite slabs a unique piece of art in their own right.
Durability Showdown: Which Countertop Can Withstand the Test of Time?
Choosing the right material for your countertops is extremely important. To make that decision, one must know about them. Let’s compare the durability aspect of quartz and quartzite countertops.
As we’ve mentioned above, quartz is an engineered stone that has a non-porous surface. This non-porous nature plays a huge role in terms of durability and maintenance of your countertops. Quartz countertops are highly resistant to scratches, impacts and stains. Liquids won’t be seeping into the pores, leaving permanent stains in your countertops. They are the perfect option for busy areas. However, it is important to note that extreme heat can cause damage to quartz countertops. Using trivets or hot pads are strongly advised since they can cause discoloration or uneven surfaces on your quartz countertops.
Quartzite countertops get their resilience from the way that they are formed. Quartzite forms under extreme heat and pressure. This process is a geological metamorphosis that gives quartzite extreme strength and durability. Just like quartz, quartzite is also highly resistant to scratches, chipping or impacts. However, since quartzite has a porous surface, it is not as resistant to stains as quartz countertops. That is why sealing and regular resealing is essential to protect your quartzite countertops. As a natural stone, quartzite is more resistant to heat than quartz. However, we strongly advise the use of trivets or hot pads again to protect the surface of your countertops. The hot pots or pans can cause damage to the sealant, leading into discolorations and areas that are susceptible to staining.
Color and Pattern Choices: Exploring the Aesthetics of Both Countertops
Quartz countertops are made from combining quartz crystals with resins, polymers and pigments. This production process allows an extensive spectrum of colors, patterns and shapes that can fit into virtually any design. Their uniform, seamless and polished appearance makes them an excellent choice for various styles of kitchens and bathrooms. They can even be made to look like natural stones to add some extra flair in your areas.
Quartzite slabs are products of nature which then will be turned into beautiful countertops for your kitchens and bathrooms. Since it’s a natural stone, their looks are of their own and that is why they can be considered as a unique piece of art. Quartzite countertops feature natural veining, swirling patterns and have a rich color palette. All these elements come together to create a captivating visual display that adds depth and character into your areas.
In conclusion; the choice between quartz and quartzite countertops require a careful evaluation of your choices and preferences in terms of design. They both offer distinct advantages like their durability and aesthetics that cater to different design choices. Now that you know more about the two materials, you will be able to make a more informed decision and select the countertop material that fits your needs for both functionality and visuals. Whether you choose the engineered elegance of quartz or the natural allure of quartzite, both countertop options will definitely elevate the looks of your kitchen or bathroom areas.
