Outline:
I. Background on Quartzite vs Quartz
II. Usage of Quartzite vs Quartz
III. Price of Quartzite vs Quartz
IV. Durability of Quartzite vs Quartz
V. Maintenance & Cleaning
VI. Color & Style
VII. Conclusion
When it comes to selecting the perfect material for countertops, North Carolina homeowners face a difficult decision choosing quartzite vs quartz. Quartzite and quartz both provide beautiful and durable finishes, but choosing the right one can be a challenge. Knowing which is best for your home comes down to a series of important factors to consider, including price range, durability, maintenance requirements, color choices, and other personal tastes. In this guide, we’ll help you make the best decision for your needs.
Background on Quartzite vs Quartz
Before digging into individual characteristics and why one might fit better than the other, it’s important to first understand the difference between quartz and quartzite. Quartz is an engineered stone that is composed from a mixture of ground quartz and resin. It boasts a wide variety of colors and patterns due to its synthetically produced materials. Quartzite, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring, metamorphic rock that is created after sandstone endures a great amount of heat and pressure. Its color is generally darker than that of quartz and features a white, gray, or beige base.
Usage of Quartzite vs Quartz
When it comes to deciding which countertop material is best for your home, the intended use matters. Quartz countertop fabrication typically provides a slightly more resilient finish than quartzite due to its engineered composition. This makes quartz a better overall fit for kitchens that will go through more wear and tear, such as households with children. Families looking for a countertop in a kitchen or bath with less use should likely opt for the softer quartzite.
Price of Quartzite vs Quartz
Cost is an important factor to consider for any home project, and with quartzite vs quartz, there is a fairly large range. Quartz is generally priced in the higher end of the spectrum due to its engineered, synthetic composition that requires additional manufacturing time and energy. Prices typically start in the low $100s per square foot and can climb much higher. Quartzite, on the other hand, is often available for less due to its natural components, though prices can still vary widely. Low-end quartzite prices start in the high $50s per square foot and can fluctuate from there.
Durability of Quartzite vs Quartz
Countertops are generally meant to last a long time, and both quartz and quartzite present impressive durability. Though quartzite is often considered the stronger of the two, the amount of maintenance and the way the stone is used in the home play a bigger role in its longevity. For instance, quartzite is slightly softer than quartz and more prone to scratches, though irregular usage patterns can minimize this risk. Quartz is much more resilient to scratches and everyday wear.
Maintenance & Cleaning
Homeowners looking to minimize the amount of time needed to maintain their countertops should opt for quartz. It’s much easier to clean and doesn’t need any sealing. Quartzite, however, needs to be sealed every few years and you must be conscious to not to use abrasive cleaners.
Color & Style
From a style perspective, quartzite almost always provides a more natural, earthy look than quartz. The color options are much more limited, though designer shades can be more striking and interesting, blending whites, grays, and beiges for a unique, one-of-a-kind effect. Quartz, on the other hand, offers a greater selection of colors, including a host of vibrant, exciting options that wouldn’t be possible with quartzite.
Conclusion
When it comes to determining the right countertop for North Carolina homes, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of quartzite and quartz. Factors such as price, durability, and style must all be taken into consideration. Fortunately, there is a reliable source of countertop solutions right here in the state. Stone Top Granite & Tile specializes in all types of countertop material and can provide necessary advice and guidance, for a variety of home projects.
Whether you opt for quartzite vs quartz in North Carolina, Stone Top Granite & Tile will provide the perfect solution for your North Carolina home. With up to 70% off retail price, you can rest assured that you’ll get quality products and services without sacrificing affordability.
Choose from a variety of natural stones, engineered quartz, and much more at stonetopnc.com. North Carolinians can rest easy knowing that they’re in the best of hands when it comes to countertop solutions.
