Quartzite Countertops
uartzite is a natural stone that is often confused with Quartz (which is a man-made material consisting of ground-up Quartz and colored resins). Despite having similar names, the two are very much different.
Quartzite is a metamorphic rock that starts out as sandstone and is subject to many years of heat and pressure, which then evolves into what we know as Quartzite.
This beautiful stone has become very popular recently because it’s natural and durable like granite but has a sleek and stylish look of marble. It forms in a wide range of colors from natural earth tones to shades of blue, green, and even red. The color variation depends on multiple factors such as Iron Oxide in the stone, the age of the stone, and the region it was quarried from. Much like granite, each slab of Quartzite is unique and one of a kind. Due to the lovely colors of this natural stone, quartzite makes for the wonderful kitchen and bathroom countertops.
Pros to having a Quartzite Kitchen countertop
On the Mohs hardness scale, most Quartzite measures in at a 7, which is equivalent to and in some cases even harder than granite. Quartzite kitchen countertops are tough and durable against wear and tear. Another way the two stones are comparable is their extreme heat resistance. Both stones can take up to 2500 degrees, although it’s not advised to put hot pans directly on the surface as the intense heat can discolor the sealant on the stone.
Another popular reason for the rise in Quartzite sales is that it resembles marble but is much less porous and is less likely to etch. It is timelessly elegant and often comes in the cool grey and blue hues that are trending in kitchen and bathroom remodels right now.
What are the cons?
Quartzite maintenance & care is not very extensive, but it is important. One of the main things about Quartzite that discourages people from choosing it is the fact that, like all-natural stone tops, it requires a sealant. This is a very small deterrent as most companies (including ours) seal the stone for you upon installation. Combined with routine maintenance & care, the particular sealant we use here at Green Acres Granite, your quartzite sealant will be good for 10-15 years. When it does come time to reseal your counters it is a very easy and inexpensive process that you can do yourself.
Another downside for some is that Quartzite cannot be finished with an upgraded chiseled edge because the material is so hard and brittle and It’s possible the chiseling could crack the stone. On the other hand, the hardness of this stone is one of its best qualities.
Overall Quartzite kitchen countertops are a solid, reliable choice with unmatched class and beauty.
If you have any questions for our fabricators in Colorado Springs and Denver, or want to upgrade to quartzite kitchen or bathroom countertops, fill out the form below or give us a call at:
Colorado Springs: 719-266-0408
Denver: 720-405-1100