Quartzite Countertop Buying Guide: Benefits, Cost, And Maintenance

Many countertop materials have appeared and disappeared over time, but quartzite remains a popular choice. Known for its beautiful look, natural veining, and strong durability, quartzite is an attractive option for homeowners who want both style and practicality in their countertops.

What Is Quartzite?

Quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock that is mined directly from the Earth. Originally formed as sandstone, it transforms over the years of exposure to intense heat and pressure into quartzite, a stronger and more durable stone. During this process, the quartz crystals within sandstone fuse and interlock under heat and pressure, resulting in a resilient material that significantly exceeds the hardness of many other stones, including granite. It is crucial to distinguish quartzite from quartz, which is a man-made material. While both contain quartz crystals, quartz countertops are a composite of these crystals mixed with resin.

Quartzite Benefits

Calacatta Montreal Quartzite

From dreamy aesthetics to notable longevity, quartzite countertops have much to offer, making this material an excellent pick for kitchens and bathrooms.

Aesthetic Appeal

The stunning beauty of quartzite countertops really shines through. Whether you're drawn to soothing neutrals, vibrant blues, or lush emerald greens, there’s a perfect color palette to complement any color scheme or style. Quartzite is wonderfully adaptable, fitting effortlessly into everything from modern, streamlined designs to the inviting warmth of traditional decor.

Part of this beauty comes from the unique features of each slab. Since this material is naturally created, every slab is different, displaying distinct veining patterns and colors that make it one of a kind. Some offer more striking and unique features than others, making them excellent focal points to enhance any space.

Quartzite Durability

Milano Quartzite

Quartzite is famous for its long-lasting durability. It ranks among the toughest naturally occurring stones often chosen for countertops, outshining other popular options. This exceptional hardness and strength make it ideal for various countertop uses, from the busy kitchen to the peaceful bathroom.

It can endure a great deal of wear and tear, easily resisting the impacts of heavy use, sharp utensils, and frequent cleaning, all common in kitchens. It will keep its beauty and elegance, remaining a timeless centerpiece in any high-traffic area.

Heat Resistance

Quartzite, like many natural stones, provides excellent heat resistance. Whether from a hot pot in the kitchen or a curling iron in the bathroom, high heat typically won't harm its beautiful surface. While using heat pads and protectants is advisable, quartzite is generally less affected by heat than synthetic countertop materials.

Quartzite Longevity

Azul Treasure Quartzite

In addition to its durability and heat resistance, quartzite boasts an excellent lifespan. When properly cared for and maintained, quartzite countertops can endure for decades, providing lasting luxury and making them a valuable investment for your home.  

Quartzite Cost

The cost of quartzite countertops, like many countertop materials, varies depending on factors such as quality, thickness, and color. Generally, higher-quality, thicker slabs in rarer colors are more expensive, while common colors, thinner slabs, and lower-quality options tend to be cheaper.

On average, quartzite countertops cost between $30 and $150 per square foot, which is similar to other natural stones like marble, priced from $15 to $150 per square foot. In contrast, granite typically ranges from $10 to $75 per square foot, making the price difference more noticeable. These prices do not include installation, which adds to the overall cost. Installation fees can vary based on local labor rates and the complexity of the job, such as sink cut-outs, edging, or corner details.

Quartzite Maintenance

Acquatic Quartzite

Maintaining and caring for quartzite countertops is simple. This natural material endures over time both inside your home and in the quarry where it comes from. Compared to other natural stones, quartzite requires surprisingly low upkeep.

Keeping its elegance and beauty involves easy and regular maintenance. Check the sealant on the stone periodically with the water test to see if it needs resealing, which helps protect your kitchen countertop against spills and stains. For everyday cleaning, use a gentle, non-acidic cleaner or a stone-specific product. Wipe up spills of drinks and food immediately to prevent stains.

The Right Choice 

Selecting the ideal quartzite slab for your home requires careful attention to several important factors. Start by considering the aesthetic you're aiming for or the atmosphere you want to create. Pick a color and pattern that align with these goals, whether you want your countertops to be a striking focal point or to blend smoothly with your existing decor. Don't forget to evaluate all parts of the space, such as the cabinets, paint, and accessories, since each element influences the overall mood.

After identifying suitable colors and patterns, the exciting part begins: shopping. We suggest viewing natural stone slabs in person rather than just small samples, as larger slabs provide a clearer sense of the final appearance in your space. If visiting in person isn't possible, our handy slab inventory tool is available to help you explore your options!

Incorporate Timeless Elegance Into Your Home With Quartzite Countertops

Quartzite countertops perfectly combine beauty, durability, and versatility, making them an excellent addition to any space, whether you're upgrading your kitchen or remodeling your bathroom. With their natural elegance and unique patterns, quartzite can transform any room.

Are you ready to enhance your home? Start by checking "where to find quartzite countertops near me". Chat with us online, visit a local MSI showroom, or contact an authorized MSI retailer near you to get started today!

READ MORE ABOUT QUARTZITE COUNTERTOPS

Making an Informed Decision: The Pros and Cons of Quartzite Countertops
7 Timeless Quartzite Colors for Lasting Kitchen Elegance
Countertop Durability: How Quartzite Countertops Stand the Test of Time