When it comes to remodeling a kitchen and a bathroom, one of the vital things to consider is the type of countertop to use in those spaces as this decision affects the beauty as well as the use of the spaces. Many tend to get confused with quartz and quartzite countertops, assuming they are one and the same. There are, more than anything else, a number of identifiable distinctions between the two which make one viable for specific uses while the other is not.
This is a detailed guide that will cover the relevant features, merits, and demerits of quartzite and quartz countertops thereby making it easy for you to choose what works best for your home or office. When you reach the end of this article the materials one could use and subsequently their superior option shall be very clear.
Quartzite vs Quartz – What Are Quartzite Countertops?
Quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphosed rock made where sandstone or chert rich in quartz is kept under extreme heat and pressure at the core of the earth’s crust. This kind of metamorphism results in a super dense and ultra hard rock which is very much sought after as the material for countertops. Indeed, quartzite has over 90% of its volume made out of quartz, and in some types it can reach as high as 99%. The reason behind such wonderful composition is the high percentage of quartz in material, and this explains why quartzite is exceptionally durable and highly resistant to scratches and stains.
One of the most beautiful traits of quartzite is its optical appeal. Its surface is smooth and shiny; at times, it takes after marble, which makes it suitable for a person wanting marble but dreads the upkeep. This highly accepted trait has made quartzite gain great popularity as a countertop surface over the recent period. Quartzite countertops are stunning and homeowners as well as designers will be happy to use them, as they have an inbuilt ability oraise the style and richness of any place.
How are Quartzite Countertops Manufactured?
The first step in the manufacture of quartzite countertops is the mining of natural stone slabs. These slabs are mined from quarries around the world, but with particular attention to the quality of the material. After the slabs are mined, they are brought to processing plants, where they are cut to the specific requirements of each project.
However, it must be noted that most quartzite is too porous in its unprocessed state to serve as a viable option for countertops. It has the propensity to soak up liquids and get stained, resulting in a great deal of damage without proper treatment. To avoid such undesirable outcomes, quartzite countertops are coated with sealants like wax, acrylic, or polyurethane. These sealants form a shield on the stone’s surface which restricts the flow of liquids inside and ensures the stone does not get stained.
While this treatment is critical for the reasonable use of quartzite countertops in the kitchen, it poses some problems for the user as well. For instance, the sealant needs to be reapplied constantly for it to be effective. Similarly, other types of damages such as scratches would warrant maintenance for quartzite countertops. Still, the inherent characteristics of quartzite make it irresistible to many users who in the first place want involvement of design within their spaces.
Engineered Stone Quartz Countertops
Unlike natural stones, quartz countertops are a manmade stone product. About 90 percent of the stone is made up of loose quartz, while the remaining bulk is made up of resins and pigments. This stone is engineered and textured to create a material that is exceptionally strong and can be altered, in order, to fit a variety of design requirements.
Quartzite Countertops vs. Quartz Countertops
Durability, maintenance, and cost are just a few factors one might look at when comparing quartz and quartzite countertops. Each option has distinct features, however, quartz countertops have begun to take the lead as the more practical and long lasting choice out of the two.
Durability
Quartz countertops are more resilient than quartzite and one of its key advantages. As opposed to quartzite which is a natural stone, quartz is a manmade material designed to endure daily use. The combination of loose quartz with different colored pigments and adhesive resins creates a material that resists chipping, scratching, and staining. For this reason, as well as its aesthetic appeal, busy kitchens and other populated spaces choose quartz countertops.
Appearance
Previously, engineered stone was not able to compete with the natural beauty of quartzite. However, with advances in the manufacturing process of countertop stone, things have changed for the better. Now, quartz countertops can be manufactured more beautiful than natural stone, and in some instances, quartz offers far more beauty. Suppliers have figured out how to design quartz countertops to mimic popular natural stones like granite and marble. This means that homeowners can have the look of natural stone without the maintenance issues that come with it.
Maintenance
One more differentiating factor between quartzite and quartz counters is the level of maintenance involved. As stated, quartzite countertops need to be periodically sealed, because of which they stand the risk of sustain stains or damage. For homeowners, this can be an expensive and labor intensive undertaking. Unlike quartzite, quartz countertops need very little maintenance. Being non-porous, they do not need to be sealed. All that is needed to keep them in the best condition is damp cloths with mild soap.
What’s the Process for Making Quartz Countertops?
Though counters differ from one manufacturer to another, quartz countertops are typically made by mixing resin and pigments into loose quartz, thereby creating a highly customizable and durable material. At Foru however, we take pride in our cutting edge technology that allows us to manufacture quartz countertops of rigorous quality – in both beauty and function.
Our slab counters are engineered by combining up to 93% inspected quartz minerals, along with an assortment of meticulously chosen pigments and polymer resins. This mixture is poured into a mold and pressed and cured while being heated for up to 45 minutes, ensuring the utmost durability. The slabs are then gauged for consistency in thickness before being polished to a glossy shine. Each slab is thoroughly inspected before being put on sale.
As a result of advanced manufacturing technologies, counter quartz is no longer as fragile as quartzite is, while also being way more appealing than the natural stone. Unlike natural stone which is subject to variance in color and pattern, our countertops are consistent which is highly desirable for modern design.
Environmental Considerations
Aside from being long lasting and beautiful, quartz countertops are also good for the environment. Making quartz countertops is less resource intensive than natural stone production, so it is a more sustainable practice. Furthermore, mining is typically a very environmentally damaging practice, but it is greatly reduced with the use of engineered stone, so there is much less impact on the environment.
Cost
All is synonymous to cost, quartzite seeks a higher payment as compared to quartz. Generally, quartzite costs more than quartz due to quality and rarity of the stone and in such case, quartz remains a cheaper alternative to quartzite. Having this in mind, quartz foresee more cost effective approaches for homeowners seeking beauty and durability in their countertops.
Installation and Customization
Quartzite as well as quartz countertops are customizable to a great extent in terms of styles, colors and designs and therefore both enables homeowners to express themselves to an extent. The installation, however, of each has a different approach. Fitting of quartzite countertops is done with utmost precision due to their cutting level, while quartz countertops is fabricated at a lower level during the manufacturing process keeping in mind their lesser costs.
At Foru, we ensure having our clients covered with a wide range of quartz countertop selections seeing to it every style is met and maintained. Our professional designs and installation team is in touch with the homeowners to make certain that the countertops meet their expectations and are tailor made according to their preference. From ivory white classic countertops to stout patterned ones, we guarantee a perfect catch for you.
Choosing the Perfect Quartzite or Quartz Countertop with Foru
In general, you must consider both your preferences and needs when making deciding about which is better between quartzite and quartz countertops. Whereas quartzite bears its natural beauty that many people who own homes would like, it has higher maintenance and price. On the other hand, quartz countertops offers low maintenance, high durability, and the option for customization to resemble the stone’s natural appearance.
At Foru, we trust that quartz countertops are the best option for most people and houses. Our advanced manufacturing practices allow us to maintain extremely high standards throughout our processes. From beauty to functionality, we’ve got you covered. Whether you are planning on remodeling your kitchen or suting up a bathroom, or just getting bored of the space you’re in, we offer specially designed quartz countertops.
For your home or office, if you want new countertops, we urge you to check Foru, where we have plenty of options to choose from. Our professional staff will adept one of your best choices and make certain that the countertop will meet your needs, be durable, and devote little maintenance attention for many years to come.
