Quartz and quartzite are both examples of engineered stone. They both look similar but have important differences that should be considered when deciding which to use for your shower, kitchen, or bathroom countertops. The best material for you will depend on the look you want and how the countertop is being used in your home. Let’s take a look at the main differences between quartz and quartzite countertops: Quartz Countertops Golden Valley MN
Appearance
Quartz appears more translucent than quartzite. Quartz is also generally more durable than quartzite, and it has a softer feel to the touch. If you want a material that will stand up to scratches and stains better than quartzite, then quartz countertops could be your best bet.
Price
Quartzite countertops are typically cheaper than quartz countertops, but you can expect to pay more for a slab of granite. A quartz countertop starts at about $33 per square foot, while granite starts at about $37 per square foot.
Quartzite countertops are often priced lower than their counterpart, the quartz countertop. This is because it’s not as popular or in demand as its namesake. Quartzite countertops are generally priced between $10 and $20 less per square foot than their stone counterpart.
Durability
Quartz is a hard, heat-resistant material that is known for its durability. Quartzite, on the other hand, can be scratched or stained with ease and can develop chipping over time.
This difference in durability is largely due to quartz’s hardness and the fact that it is not porous like quartzite. While both materials are highly resistant to heat (quartz is impervious to most temperatures), quartzite will show signs of wear much sooner than quartz because it lacks this impermeability.
The biggest difference between quartz and quartzite is their composition. Quartz is a man-made stone that is made from crushed quartz or sand mixed with resin to create a solid mass. Quartzite, on the other hand, is found in nature and has been polished into its current form by mother nature herself.
In terms of durability, quartz offers better protection against staining and scratching than its natural counterpart, but it cannot be honed like quartzite can be honed to achieve an even more refined finish. This means that you will have to be extra careful when cleaning your countertops as well!
Ease of Maintenance
Quartz is known as the king of kitchen countertops. It’s easy to clean, resistant to scratches and heat, and looks great in any color. Quartzite is a close second: it’s heat-resistant and can resist scratches and stains. However, quartzite doesn’t hold up well against moisture—it absorbs water more readily than quartz, which means you have to wipe down your countertops after washing dishes or rinsing produce.
Quartz Countertops Golden Valley MN
We hope this post has helped you make an informed decision about your countertop material. If you’re still unsure, contact our team of experts at Granite Expo MN! We are located in Golden Valley, Minnesota, and can help you decide which material is best for your project and answer any questions you may have about the process. Reach out to us today!