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They both hail from the same name. But, what’s the difference between quartz and quartzite? Odds are you’ve seen both quartz and quartzite decorating many homes across the country. What are these materials used for? How are they made? Is there one material that’s better than the other?

This decision can extend beyond just kitchen countertops. Looking into other rooms that require stone flooring or slabs, you might be faced with the same tough choice. A look at the subtle and not-so-subtle differences between quartzite and quartz can bring you closer to a decision point as you begin your remodeling or new construction project.

Quartz vs. Quartzite: What’s Better for Countertops?

While flooring options appear to be quite interchangeable, the same might not be said for kitchen countertops. The debate of quartzite vs. quartz countertops comes in many shapes and forms, much like the nature of the stone itself. If you already have kitchen countertops of quartz or quartzite, and you are worried that you chose the wrong material to install, don’t worry: The differences in quartz and quartzite countertops can be subtle enough that you won’t feel as if you’ve made a mistake.

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Again, quartzite is a completely natural material, while quartz is engineered. This means that there are some aspects of quartzite that cannot be controlled or its outcome predicted, unlike quartz, which is refined using a variety of different materials to create the desired stone look. Quartz does use a refined version of the natural mineral with the same name, but it is added to synthetic materials to finalize it as a product.

So if they look and feel so similar, what makes them different? Is there a reason why someone would prefer a quartz countertop over quartzite, or vice versa? Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons of quartzite to see if the natural material wins over the engineered one.

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Quartzite Countertop Pros:

• Quartzite is much more varied in veining, coloring, and patterns, as mother nature never makes the same thing twice.

• Definitely a plus — Quartzite is more resistant to scratching than quartz, as the natural veining and dark gray patterns can easily cover those scratches right up.

• Quartzite is better at heat resistance than quartz, making it better in the kitchen during those moments where you need to set a hot pot down directly on the counter.
   

Quartzite Countertop Cons:

• Quartzite cannot give a bold, solid, or uniform appearance as easily as quartz can. With quartz, you have the option of adding no veining or patterns at all, ordering your slab in a single color.

• Keep in mind that Quartzite is often more expensive than quartz, especially if you are looking to add a lot of it to your room. This is because of the way it is mined and the labor it takes to deliver a beautiful slab to your home.

• Quartzite is less resistant to stains than quartz. In fact, quartzite needs to be sealed in order to be protected against potential spilled drinks. Quartz, on the other hand, needs no extra protection.
   

Ultimately, the decision is yours. Both quartz and quartzite possess their subtle differences, but all in all, they are both choice materials for kitchen countertops. Before you finalize your decision, however, it might be important to revisit the fact that people often compare quartzite to granite.

If you have ordered kitchen materials before, you will know that granite is one of the most common and popular choices for countertops. So when you are reaching for the pattern options and pricing calculators, which one will you choose? What exactly are the differences between these two materials?

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Source: Sebring Design Build

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