Product Spotlight: Quartz vs Quartzite
Quartz and quartzite are both popular choices for countertops, flooring, and other home surface applications, but they are quite different in terms of composition, appearance, durability, and maintenance. Here's a breakdown of the some of the key differences;
Composition
Quartz:
Man-made material: Quartz countertops are engineered stone products, made from about 90-93% natural quartz mixed with 7-10% resins, polymers, and pigments.
Consistent and customizable: Because it is a manufactured product, quartz comes in a wide range of colors and patterns. Manufacturers can add pigments to create countertops in nearly any color and mimic the look of natural stone.
Quartzite:
Natural stone: Quartzite is a natural stone that forms when sandstone is subjected to high heat and pressure over time. This process, known as metamorphism, transforms the quartz grains in the sandstone into interlocking quartz crystals.
Predominantly quartz: Quartzite contains more than 90% quartz particles, with the remainder being other minerals that contribute to its color and patterning.
Appearance
Quartz:
Variety of patterns and colors: The appearance of quartz is partly controlled during the manufacturing process. It can range from being fine and uniform to richly textured. It often mimics the look of natural stones such as granite and marble.
Consistency: Quartz offers a more uniform pattern and color since it's engineered. This can be especially appealing for large areas where consistency is desired.
Quartzite:
Natural look: Quartzite has a more natural appearance, resembling marble or granite. It usually has a grainy, glassy surface.
Unique patterns and colors: Each slab of quartzite is unique, with veins and swirls contributing to its beauty. The color palette is primarily white or gray with hints of pink or red, depending on the iron oxide content.
Durability and Hardness
Quartz:
Hard and durable: Quartz is extremely hard and durable, thanks to the resins and polymers added during its creation. It resists scratches, chips, and cracks effectively.
Not entirely heat resistant: While quartz is durable, it is not as heat resistant as quartzite. Excessive heat can cause damage or discoloration, so it’s recommended to use trivets or hot pads under hot pots and pans.
Quartzite:
Exceptionally strong: Quartzite is harder than quartz. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, quartzite can range from 7 to 8, making it extremely resistant to scratches and abrasion.
Heat resistant: This stone is very heat resistant, which makes it suitable for kitchen environments where hot items might be placed directly on the surface.
Maintenance
Quartz:
Low maintenance: Quartz requires minimal maintenance because its surface is non-porous due to the manufacturing process. It doesn’t need to be sealed and is resistant to staining.
Easy to clean: You can clean quartz with mild soap and water or a non-abrasive cleaning pad.
Quartzite:
Higher maintenance: Quartzite is more porous than quartz and often requires sealing to prevent stains and prolong the life of the material. It typically needs to be resealed annually.
Cleaning: Quartzite should be cleaned with only non-abrasive cleaners to avoid scratching the surface.
Cost
Quartz:
Varies by brand and quality: The cost of quartz can vary significantly depending on the brand, color, and pattern.
Quartzite:
Generally more expensive: Quartzite tends to be slightly more expensive than quartz, due to its natural rarity and the process of quarrying and cutting.
Environmental Impact
Quartz:
Energy-intensive manufacturing: The process of manufacturing quartz involves high energy consumption due to the transformation of raw quartz into a finished product using resins and other chemicals.
Quartzite:
Lower energy production: As a natural stone, quartzite has a smaller carbon footprint compared to quartz. However, quarrying and transporting the stone still consumes energy.
The choice between quartz and quartzite depends on your specific needs and preferences. Quartz offers more design consistency and lower maintenance, making it suitable for busy kitchens and bathrooms. Quartzite, with its natural beauty and high durability, is ideal for those who prefer the unique appearance of natural stone and are willing to invest in its upkeep. Both materials are excellent choices and can enhance the beauty and functionality of your space.
Contact your local All Natural Stone Showroom to explore all the options available for your next home renovation project.