Despite their incredibly similar names, quartz and quartzite are two very different materials. From how they’re made to what they look like when installed, they each have distinctive qualities that set them apart. If you’re planning to renovate your home using one of the materials, here’s what you need to know about the differences between quartz and quartzite countertops.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops are created using a blend of natural stone and engineered products like resin, pigments, and other binders. Once the quartz is mined, it’s crushed into very fine pieces that are mixed with the resin into a slurry. During this step, the manufacturer will carefully add pigments to create unique colors and patterns. Then, the slurry is compacted into a mold, where it cures before being sealed.
What is Quartzite?
Quartzite countertops are made using entirely natural specialty stone. This metamorphic rock forms when sandstone becomes hot and highly pressurized, usually deep inside of mountains. Due to the pressure, the rock is non-foliated, meaning that all of the layers have fused and crystallized together into a very hard slab.
Quartz Vs Quartzite Appearance
Thanks to the detailed manufacturing process, quartz countertops come in a wide range of appearances. There are hundreds of colors and patterns to choose from, and you may be able to create a customized slab that reflects your exact vision. On the other hand, quartzite countertops have a bit less variety. Most are light in color with some flecks or veining. While there is less variety in terms of color and pattern, each quartzite stone is natural and therefore entirely unique.
Which Material is Easier to Care For?
While both quartz and quartzite are very hard and durable, they also require some maintenance to stay in the best condition possible—and their care routines look a bit different.
Since quartz are made using resin, they are 100% waterproof and highly resistant to bacteria. The material is very scratch-resistant and can withstand high temperatures, though it’s still recommended that you use heat pads to avoid discoloration. Quartz slabs also do not need to be sealed, which means maintenance is generally limited to wiping up spills or debris at the end of the day.
Being natural stones, quartzite care looks a bit different. The stone should be routinely sealed to prevent staining or scratching. Without a seal, it may become permanently discolored from spills. Though quartzite requires more care than quartz, it does come with a few perks; it’s resistant to scratching, and it can tolerate extremely hot temperatures—even up to 1,000°F, so you won’t have to worry about using heat pads.
Is Quartz or Quartzite More Expensive?
Since quartzite is 100% natural stone, it tends to be pricier than quartz. The need for routine sealing can also add some costs down the road. That said, certain quartz patterns or customized quartz slabs can also come with a higher price tag, so it’s helpful to shop around if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option. To get an idea of what your project will cost, contact Crowleys Granite & Quartz for a free in-home estimate.
How to Choose Between Quartz and Quartzite
Picking the right countertop material is a tough decision, but it’s important if you want a final product that fits your vision and meets your lifestyle needs. If you’re having a hard time choosing between quartz and quartzite for your project, start by examining these qualities:
- Appearance: Both materials are incredibly beautiful, but quartz offers a lot more flexibility in terms of design. If you have a highly specific vision, quartz may be the way to go; if you prefer the sleek and unique look of natural stone, you may want to opt for quartzite.
- Functionality: Quartz and quartzite are very durable, making them a great choice for busy parts of the home. With proper sealing, quartzite is stain-resistant and easy to clean—and it doesn’t need heat pads to handle hot pots and pans. Quartz is also very easy to care for, though it may warp or discolor under high temperatures.
- Maintenance: Since quartz incorporates resin, it’s non-porous and very easy to care for. It doesn’t need routine sealing, so maintenance is pretty straightforward Quartzite, on the other hand, needs to be sealed regularly to make the stone less porous and stain-prone, so it requires a bit more care long-term.
- Price: Quartz comes in a wide range of price points, but since it is engineered, it tends to be a bit less costly than quartzite. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, quartz might be the best choice. But, if you want to infuse your home with a sense of luxury and can afford a higher price tag, quartzite could be a good option.
Start Your Countertop Project
Countertop installations can be overwhelming—even once you determine which countertop material is right for you, you’ve got all the patterns and colors and other design factors to consider. At Crowleys Granite & Quartz, it’s our goal to make the renovation process easier and more enjoyable. With 20 years of experience providing comprehensive installation services throughout Portland, Oregon, we’ll ensure you get the countertops of your dreams. Whether you know exactly what you’re looking for or are still exploring your options, we’re ready to help—just give us a call to get started!
Difference Between Quartz and Quartzite Countertops in Portland OR & Vancouver WA
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