As you begin to plan your kitchen renovation in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, or are selecting finishes for your new build home, there can be many questions that arise regarding countertop surfaces. Homeowners often want to know more about the differences between quartz and quartzite because they sound like they could be very similar if not the same surface. In reality, these are very different surfaces, and buyers must understand the benefits of each before making that significant selection.
Natural Store Or Man-Made
Unless you are a geologist, you could make a simple mistake when choosing the surface for your countertops. Most people assume that quartz is a natural stone surface. So that must make quartzite the manufactured material. However, that is the opposite in this case. Quartzite starts life as sandstone. Then, a process using heat and extreme pressure infuses the glittery pieces into the sandstone to form the quartzite material.
A quartz surface is made using the same eye-catching pieces as are infused in the sandstone. However, there is no natural stone involved in the process. Instead, the glistening elements are combined with resin, pigments, and other materials to form the quartz counter slabs.
Creating Your Ideal Look
Homeowners often mistake quartzite for much more costly granite or marble. Visually, quartzite offers the same delicate veining, color patterns, and attractive appearance as the higher-end materials. The designs achieved when creating this surface often allow for more intricate patterns and more appealing motion-like swirls and details on the counter surface.
Quartz offers the ability to look like many various types of stone. It is offered in a wide range of colors and hues as well as patterns. The natural designs typically offer less motion-oriented shapes but are still very appealing in a more subtle manner.
Care And Durability
Thanks to the binding agent used to create the quartz surface, these countertops will be incredibly durable. The surface will be non-porous and resistant to chipping, scratching, and health concerns related to bacteria. When it comes to maintaining your quartz countertops, there is no special care required. Simply clean as you would any other surface in your home with soap and water or a disinfectant wipe.
While quartzite is a relatively hard stone surface, it is less dense than quartz and more porous. These characteristics make quartzite prone to staining in heavy use areas. Therefore, a quartzite countertop should be sealed regularly to maintain a stain-free surface and combat bacterial growth for easy cleaning.
Go With A Pro
Knowing the fundamental differences between these two surfaces, you might be leaving your selection to the cost. However, that might not be as simple as you think. This cost on these two surfaces is typically similar. The best approach is to focus on your visual preference and the level of care that will best suit your needs. For expert guidance on this vital selection for your home, call 612-270-4239. There are many reasons why everyone shopping for new countertops calls Gordy and the Rock Solid Tops team for a perfect project every time.