When it comes to choosing new countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, two popular options are quartz and quartzite. Though their names sound similar, there are some key differences between quartz and quartzite that impact factors like appearance, durability, maintenance, and cost. Understanding how these two materials compare can help you decide which is better suited for your needs and design vision.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes referred to as engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The exact ratio can vary between brands, but high quality quartz slabs typically contain over 90% ground quartz along with polymer resins that act as a binder.
This blend creates a durable, non-porous material that can be molded into countertops and other surfaces. The resins allow quartz to take on vivid colors and patterns that natural stone typically lacks. Quartz requires less sealing than natural stone and is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat.
Here are some key facts about quartz countertops:
- Made from – Ground quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments
- Hardness – Rates around 7 on the Mohs hardness scale
- Porosity – Non-porous
- Maintenance – Requires little maintenance
- Durability – Resists scratches, stains, etching, and heat
- Appearance – Available in wide range of colors/patterns
- Cost – $80 – $140 per square foot installed
Popular quartz countertop brands include Cambria, Caesarstone, Silestone, and Viatera. The resin content allows quartz to be molded into consistent designs and customized edging.
What is Quartzite?
Quartzite begins as a natural stone material consisting completely of quartz crystals. Over time, heat and pressure metamorphize the stone into dense, durable quartzite. Millions of years of tectonic plate movements cause sandstone to transform into this distinct material.
Quartzite slabs maintain the appearance of natural stone but with enhanced hardness and durability. Quartzite countertops are resilient to scratches, etching, and heat. However, quartzite is more porous than engineered quartz and requires occasional sealing.
Here are some key facts about quartzite countertops:
- Made from – 100% natural metamorphized quartz
- Hardness – Rates around 7-8 on the Mohs scale
- Porosity – Low porosity but more than quartz
- Maintenance – Requires occasional sealing
- Durability – Resists scratches, stains, etching, and heat
- Appearance – Earthy tones and natural patterns
- Cost – $70 – $150 per square foot installed
Popular quartzite varieties used for countertops include Taj Mahal, Nacarado, White Macaubas, and Marine Blue. The appearance can mimic marble or granite but with increased hardness.
Key Differences Between Quartz and Quartzite
Now that you understand the origins and characteristics of quartz and quartzite, let’s directly compare some of the ways these two materials differ:
Composition
- Quartz – Manufactured from ground quartz and resins
- Quartzite – 100% natural stone
Hardness
- Quartz – Around 7 on Mohs scale
- Quartzite – 7-8 on Mohs scale
Porosity
- Quartz – Non-porous
- Quartzite – Low porosity but requires occasional sealing
Appearance
- Quartz – Consistent patterns and colors
- Quartzite – Earthy tones with natural veining
Maintenance
- Quartz – Nearly maintenance-free
- Quartzite – Requires occasional sealing
Heat Tolerance
- Quartz – Resistant to heat but sudden temperature changes may cause cracks
- Quartzite – Can withstand very high heat
Durability
- Quartz – Resists scratches, stains, and etching
- Quartzite – Also extremely durable and scratch/stain-resistant
Cost
- Quartz – $80 – $140 per square foot installed
- Quartzite – $70 – $150 per square foot installed
As you can see, quartz and quartzite share some similarities when it comes to durability, hardness, and maintenance needs. However, quartzite remains a 100% natural stone while quartz consists of ground quartz and binding resins. This impacts their appearance, porosity, heat tolerance, and overall composition.
Pros and Cons of Quartz Countertops
Now that you understand how quartz compares to quartzite, let’s dive deeper into the specific pros and cons of quartz countertops:
Pros of Quartz Countertops
- Wide range of consistent colors and patterns
- Extremely durable and scratch/stain-resistant
- Requires very little maintenance
- Non-porous so resists mold, mildew, and bacteria growth
- Heat, scratch, chip, and acid-resistant
- Can mimic look of pricier materials like marble and granite
- Seamless appearance with customized edges
Cons of Quartz Countertops
- Manufactured rather than 100% natural stone
- Sudden temperature changes may cause cracking
- Limited number of suppliers leads to higher cost
- Can be prone to damage from heavy impacts
- Pattern/color uniformity lacks natural veining of stones
- Needs re-polishing or replacing if damaged
Overall, quartz makes an excellent choice for countertops needing minimal maintenance and resistance to daily wear and tear. The manmade composition provides vivid, consistent designs not found naturally. The non-porous binding resins make quartz impervious to bacteria as well as most stains, scratches, and accidental damage. Just avoid subjecting your quartz counters to sudden temperature swings.
Pros and Cons of Quartzite Countertops
Similarly, here are the key upsides and downsides of quartzite countertops:
Pros of Quartzite Countertops
- Made from 100% natural stone
- Very hard and durable
- Resistant to scratches, stains, impacts, heat, and etching
- Unique natural tones and earthy appearance
- Does not require harsh chemicals for cleaning
- More heat tolerance than quartz
- Becomes antique and patina over time
Cons of Quartzite Countertops
- Porous and requires occasional sealing
- Limited color and pattern options
- Natural fissures may form with time
- Expensive and rare options like Taj Mahal quartzite
- Chipping or cracking possible from heavy impacts
- Surface etching from acidic liquids if not sealed
Quartzite makes an excellent natural stone option when you prefer durability but still want an earthy, unique appearance. Proper sealing is needed for stain protection, but quartzite can withstand heavy usage for years when cared for. The high heat tolerance also suits avid cooks and bakers.
Should I Choose Quartz or Quartzite?
So when deciding between kitchen or bathroom countertops, should you choose quartz or quartzite? Here are a few key factors to consider:
Budget
Quartz and quartzite have similar average costs per square foot installed. However, exotic quartzite varieties can raise costs for special orders. Overall budget may determine which material fits best.
Maintenance Preferences
Quartz requires essentially no regular maintenance unlike quartzite’s periodic sealing needs. If you want to avoid constant upkeep, quartz is the lower-maintenance option.
Visual Appeal
If you prefer natural stone with random patterns, the look of quartzite can’t be replicated. But quartz offers colorful, uniform designs impossible with natural materials.
Usage
For heavy-use kitchen counters that need durability, either quartz or quartzite would provide longevity. Quartz lacks the heat tolerance of quartzite for avid bakers.
Sustainability
If using natural materials is important, quartzite has the upper hand as an all-natural stone. However, recycled glass and other materials are often used in engineered quartz.
Resale Value
Both options add value and appeal to a home. Quartzite may offer higher end value for luxury properties. But quartz also appeals to buyers looking for low-maintenance surfaces.
FAQs About Quartz vs. Quartzite Countertops
Still have some questions about how quartz and quartzite counter materials compare? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Is quartzite more expensive than quartz?
On average, installed costs for quartz and quartzite are similar at $70-$150 per square foot. Exotic quartzite varieties can potentially drive up costs more than premium quartz options.
Is quartzite stronger than quartz?
Both materials are remarkably strong and durable in different ways. Their hardness ratings on the Mohs scale are nearly identical. Quartzite can withstand more direct heat. Both resist scratches, impacts, and etching. Overall, their strength is comparable.
Can you ruin quartzite by overheating?
No, quartzite has a very high heat tolerance and does not easily damage from heat exposure. It can withstand temperatures up to about 1400°F before any issues potentially occur. This makes it more suitable for kitchens than quartz which can crack under sudden temperature changes.
Does quartzite etch like marble?
With proper sealing, quartzite does not readily etch from acidic liquids. Unsealed quartzite can potentially experience etching damage the way marble does. But quartzite is less prone to etching than marble even when unsealed.
Is quartzite porous?
Yes, quartzite is slightly porous, more so than engineered quartz. This requires occasional resealing to prevent stains. But quartzite has much lower porosity than softer natural stones like marble, limestone, and travertine that require frequent sealing.
Can you use vinegar to clean quartzite?
No, avoid using vinegar or any acidic cleaners on quartzite counters. The acid can potentially etch and damage the surface, especially if it is unsealed. Mild soap and water is the best everyday quartzite cleaner.
Does quartz or quartzite add more value?
Both quartz and quartzite are viewed as high-end materials that boost property values significantly compared to cheaper options like laminate. Natural stones like quartzite may have a slight edge for luxury home resale. But quartz also commands a premium.
Quartz vs. Quartzite: Which is Better for Countertops?
At the end of the day, both quartz and quartzite make excellent choices for countertops. Here are a few final tips on deciding between the two:
- Prioritize low maintenance – Quartz requires less regular upkeep
- Want striking patterns/colors – Engineered quartz offers more design options
- Prefer natural stone appearance – Quartzite maintains an earthy look
- Need to withstand heat – Quartzite has higher heat tolerance
- Seeking budget-friendly option – Lower-end quartz may be most affordable
- Going for luxury/status – Highest-end quartzite communicates prestige
Whichever material you choose, proper installation is key to maximizing durability. Keeping either surface properly sealed will maintain its beauty and function for many years. With routine care, you can enjoy quartz or quartzite countertops for decades.
Both offer unique advantages. By understanding all the differences between quartz vs. quartzite, you can decide which of these premier countertop materials best fits your kitchen or bath design goals. Let the information above guide your decision-making process as you transform your home with elegant new surfaces.
Conclusion
Quartz and quartzite countertops provide many advantages over more traditional options like marble, granite, and laminate. Both materials resist scratches, impacts, heat damage, and routine wear and tear. The decision between quartz vs. quartzite often depends on factors like desired appearance, maintenance needs, and budget.
Quartz consists of ground quartz crystal combined with resins for an engineered stone that requires minimal upkeep. The manmade composition allows vivid colors and patterns. Quartzite remains a 100% natural stone with the durability of quartz but an earthy, unique appearance. It needs occasional sealing but provides unrivaled heat tolerance.
Understanding the distinctions between quartz and quartzite empowers you to decide which material aligns with your priorities. Both options transform rooms with their stylish elegance and durability. With the information provided above, you can confidently choose the best countertop to upgrade your space with long-lasting quality and beauty.