The first thing to understand is quartzite should not be confused with quartz countertops, which are engineered stone countertops. Quartzite is a natural metamorphic stone that is primarily composed of solid quartz.
This metamorphic stone is extremely strong and durable and offers the best found in other stone countertops like granite and marble. The veining in quartzite is similar to marble; however, it is much more durable.
The natural stone of quartzite can be honed in a variety of finishes, including leather, suede, or polished to a beautiful sheen. Because the quartzite is so hard, it takes a little bit longer to fabricate than other natural stones like granite and marble.
Let's take a look at the pros and cons of quartzite. We will answer your most common questions including can you cut on quartzite, the durability of quartzite, and how to clean and protect your quartzite countertops.
Quartzite is extremely easy to care for and requires very little upkeep. Although this stone countertop is not etch-proof or stain-proof, it is still an amazing countertop for the kitchen and the bathroom. The porosity of quartzite countertops varies from slab to slab; therefore, it is essential to clean up any spills immediately.
One way to provide an added layer of protection and provide you with a little more time to clean up any spills, we recommend applying a quartzite sealer. However, it is important to realize that if you wait to clean up a spill for hours or days, it can result in a stain or cause etching. Strong cleaning acids like a rust remover may etch quartzite and should be avoided.
Quartzite is extremely heat resistant. Although hot pots and pans can be set on a quartzite countertop, we do not recommend it because it can cause thermal-induced stress on your stone countertop. Instead, we recommend using a trivet or hot pads for any hot pot or pan.
Quartzite is extremely scratch-resistant. In fact, it is more durable than steel or granite. Although cutting directly on your quartzite countertops will probably not damage them, we recommend always using a cutting board. The hardness of your quartzite countertops can actually dull or damage the edge of your knife blades.
Natural stone countertops are extremely durable; however, there are certain precautions that should be taken. For example, you should never sit or stand on quartzite countertops as this can result in a stress fracture or crack.
If your quartzite chips, it can be repaired. Make sure that you save the chip, if possible. The chip will make the repair much easier and help ensure a seamless repair. Never try to repair the chip yourself. Natural stone countertop repairs should be left to the professionals.
After the repair is made, it will be virtually impossible to detect. Repairs will be stable and look great; however, that area of the countertop will never be as stable as it was.
Quartzite is a metamorphic rock, which means it is extremely hard and durable. Although they are scratch-resistant, etch-resistant, and somewhat stain-resistant, care should be taken. Wipe your countertops down whenever a spill occurs, use a stone sealer, avoid placing heavy objects atop your countertops, and don't cut on your countertops.
Cutting on your quartzite countertops should be avoided as it can dull your knives, and even damage your knife blade. Always, always, always use a cutting board rather than cutting directly on your countertops.
