While quartz countertops are resistant to scratching, it’s still recommended that you use a cutting board. This makes good sanitary sense as various meats secrete juices that can damage the permanent seal that quartz surfaces are fabricated with, allowing bacterial contamination to occur.
With a wide range of colors and patterns, quartz can fit any style. It’s one of the most versatile materials for counters and can mimic the look of marble or granite.
Scratch Resistance
Both quartzite and quartz countertops are durable materials that stand up well to the wear and tear of everyday kitchen use. However, there are a few differences between the two. Here are some things to keep in mind as you consider which material is right for your home.
Quartzite is a natural metamorphic rock that is formed from granite and other stone pieces in the earth. The unique patterns, colors, and textures of quartzite can add a beautiful touch to any kitchen. This type of countertop can also provide a one-of-a-kind look that no other material can offer.
Unlike granite, quartzite is more resistant to scratches. It also has a higher resistance to heat, so it can be used as a hot plate in the kitchen.
In terms of color, quartzite offers a more varied palette than granite and can be molded into custom shapes. This makes it an excellent choice for homeowners who want to create a custom style in their kitchen.
On the other hand, quartz countertops can be manufactured to resemble any color or pattern of stone. It is less expensive than quartzite, and it can be cut and shaped much easier than the raw stone. This is important because quartzite can be more difficult to handle during installation. Because of this, it is not recommended for do-it-yourself countertop installation.
Durability
While quartz is a hardy material, it’s not scratch proof. It’s also not resistant to stains or bacteria. To keep your quartz countertops looking good, wipe up spills as soon as you notice them and use a commercial surface cleaner to clean the counters once or twice per month. To prevent bacterial growth, don’t use harsh disinfectants on your quartz counters.
Quartzite is a natural stone that is formed when sandstone or chert rich in quartz crystals is pressurized. Quartzite can resemble marble or travertine in appearance, although it’s typically light gray or white with flecks of green, red and blue and occasional veining. It lacks the wide color range of quartz, however, which can be manufactured to suit any decorating style.
While you can cut directly on your quartzite countertops, it’s best to use a cutting board to protect the material from etching and staining caused by acids in certain foods. It’s also recommended that you avoid placing hot pots and pans directly on the surface, as the heat can discolor the quartz over time.
As an engineered stone, quartz is much more durable than quartzite and is able to stand up to a wide range of temperatures without losing its shape or cracking. Quartz’s strength means that it can be cut to fit non-uniform spaces and is less likely to crack during installation, unlike other natural stones like sandstone and granite. It’s also not porous, requiring only an annual sealing to maintain its water and stain resistance.
Maintenance
Because quartz is an engineered stone, it has been designed to be stronger and more resilient than natural stones like granite or marble. This means that it is highly resistant to most types of damage, including scratches and cuts.
It is also one of the most durable countertop materials that can be found, even against acidic substances. However, just because it is tough does not mean that you should ignore the maintenance requirements for your quartz counters. It is important to clean your counters regularly, using a mild soap solution and rinsing thoroughly afterward. This is particularly important if you are preparing raw foods or working with acidic substances, such as vinegar and citrus juices.
If you use your counters a lot, you may want to consider using a disinfectant cleaner that is safe for quartz and that will help to protect the surface from germs. If you need to cut food directly on your countertops, it is always a good idea to use a cutting board for safety reasons. It is also a good idea to avoid placing hot pots or pans on quartz counters, as this can cause them to crack and crumble.
The main drawback to quartzite is that it is more susceptible to staining than some other countertop materials, but this can be minimized by sealing the counters before and after installation. The sealer should be reapplied on an annual basis, and this can be done at home by applying the sealer with a clean cloth, allowing it to soak in for 10 or 15 minutes, then wiping away the excess.
Cost
Both quartz and quartzite countertops are long-lasting, but which one is the right choice for your kitchen or bathroom? Quartzite is a natural stone countertop material that can be very attractive. This type of countertop is typically white to gray, although it may also have red and pink hues that are a result of iron oxide in the stone. This material is highly resistant to scratches and heat, but it’s not stain-proof. It can discolor in direct sunlight, and it’s prone to etching when exposed to food acids. It can be resealed periodically to prevent etching, but it’s best to protect the surface with trivets and use a cutting board when chopping directly on the counter.
In terms of cost, quartz is less expensive than quartzite. However, the cost of installing quartz countertops is still higher than other types of surfaces like laminate. This is because both quartzite and quartz are considered high-end materials, and they’re expensive to manufacture and cut.
Both quartz and quartzite are heavier than other counter materials, which makes them unsuitable for DIY installation. Both are also prone to cracking or breaking if cut imprecisely, so you’ll need to hire a professional fabricator for your countertop project. It’s also a good idea to register your quartz or quartzite countertop purchase, as this can help you secure a warranty should the counters become damaged.