Quartzite Countertops
Quartzite is a natural countertop material. Along with granite and marble, it is one of the most favorite stones for many homeowners who love using natural materials. One can get organic and earthy vibes with a naturally coarse texture in its original state.
Thanks to its solid-looking smooth surface, quartzite countertops serve as a perfect alternative to other engineered and natural stones. Though it is often regarded as a surface option in the kitchen, quartzite countertop is highly versatile. You can use a quartzite slab almost anywhere in your home.
Quartzite Specifications And Applications
Quartzite is a metamorphic rock, which means it was formed by another type of rock due to changing heat and pressure conditions. Consequently, quartz sandstone forms quartzite under high pressure and heat. Normally, quartzite is between white and gray, but other minerals in the mixture can give the stone different colors such as red, yellow, blue…etc.
Quartzite countertops’ colors allow it to be used for different applications. For example, you can have a white lux quartzite in the kitchen and choose a darker color for the bathroom countertops. The size of the slabs can be tailored to your needs as well. Thicknesses available include 2 cm and 3 cm slabs. Thinner cuts are better for vertical surfaces, and thicker ones are ideal for heavy-duty surfaces like kitchen countertops. The slabs usually come in honed and polished finishes.
If you are interested in quartzite slabs, we at Landmark Surfaces, are pleased to answer all your questions about the specifications and application of this lovely surface material.
Popular Quartzite Countertops
As mentioned above, pure quartzite is white or gray, but hematite or other natural minerals can change its color. Colorful or just black and white quartzite countertops are all available. We offer many quartzite stones in Chantilly, Alexandria, and Fredericksburg. Here are two popular quartzite colors trending nowadays.
Taj Mahal Quartzite
This is probably one of the bestsellers at all dealers. What makes it so special is its cream-to-white background and beautiful veins which are appealing to a wide range of tastes. This very stone can fit traditional, modern, and luxurious high-end designs at the same time.
White Macaubas Quartzite
It is a white quartzite accentuated with gold to brown veins. The awesome veining adds character to the stone. A lot of people seek this marvelous stone as they are aware that they can use this particular kind of stone for a long time.
Fantasy Brown Quartzite
Fantasy brown quartzite is not easy to categorize. Since it contains mineral calcium carbonate, the stone is technically a marble. But its naturally engineered character gives the stone an incredible resilience against heat or scratches, which makes it count as a quartzite.
Fantasy Brown Quartzite
Fantasy brown quartzite is not easy to categorize. Since it contains mineral calcium carbonate, the stone is technically a marble. But its naturally engineered character gives the stone an incredible resilience against heat or scratches, which makes it count as a quartzite.
Can't Decide? There are hundreds other options. Contact us for an expert help.
Why Should You Choose Quartzite?
Quartzite is a natural stone; thus, the quartzite slabs show natural variations of patterns and movements that makes every surface unique. The colors and patterns are so earthy, such as marble. Therefore, most people prefer quartzite to other alternatives since quartzite countertops can give the luxury and natural feeling of an expensive marble. However, quartzite is much stronger than marble, and thus is more resistant to damage and scratches.
Also, quartzite is highly durable with lower maintenance. You can use a quartzite countertop for many years as long as you seal and clean it regularly. It is resistant to simple spills or stains if you clean them without letting the stain sit on the surface for too long. It is the same for heat resistance, too. Formed from sandstone, quartzite is resistant to high temperatures, so you can use it more comfortably.
Why Should You Prefer Landmark Surfaces?
Landmark Surfaces is one of the best countertop fabricators and installers, as well as where you can find the highest quality within your budget. We offer you plenty of quartzite countertops in Chantilly, Alexandria, and Fredericksburg, including top-trends and limited pieces. Landmark is the biggest importer in VA, meaning we can find almost any stone anywhere in the world.
Landmark is selling quartzite countertops in Fredericksburg, Chantilly, and Alexandria and installing them without inconveniencing your homelife. The work is always clean and concise, and guaranteed by Landmark. We are proud of our fast turnaround time, clean workmanship, and 20+ years of experience. If you want to see some of the best quartzite countertops in Alexandria, Chantilly, and Fredericksburg, just visit us!
Quartzite Countertops: Advantages and Disadvantages
Quartzite is a good choice for many reasons, but it is better to be objective and learn about its advantages and disadvantages of quartzite.
Pros of Quartzite
- The slabs offer unique beauty.
- The surface is resistant to daily scratches and spills.
- The surface is resistant to high temperatures.
- It is easy to clean.
- You can add resale value to your property by installing a quartzite countertop.
Cons of Quartzite
- Hard scratches or stains can be a problem for you.
- It is usually expensive.
- It needs sealing for maintenance.
- Installation can be expensive.
Quartzite Price
You can find quartzite slabs for $60 to $120 per square foot. Quartzite cost can vary on the type of slab, fabrication, transportation, finish, edge…etc. The price is usually higher than an average granite slab but lower than marble slabs. You should also take the countertop installation costs into consideration. It might be higher or lower, depending on your location.
How to Take Care of Quartzite?
If you follow certain maintenance routines, you can enjoy the quartzite countertop for a longer time. Here are some key points:
Use A High-Quality Sealant
Since the surface of the quartzite countertops is porous, they might suck up acidic or alcoholic liquids and look discolored or dull after a few years. Sealing the slab annually helps you protect the surface from serious stains or spills while ensuring a shiny clean finish for a long time.
Avoid Putting Hot Pans Directly
Quartzite is resistant to high temperatures, but if the pan, pot, or tray is too hot, it can damage the surface anyway. We advise using coasters to protect the surface to be on the safe side.
Use Cutting Board
Knives or other sharp objects can cause scratches on the surface. Though a quartzite surface is resistant to simple damages, it is still a good idea to use a cutting board whenever you are slicing or cutting.
How to Clean Quartzite Countertops?
Cleaning the quartzite countertop surface with a small amount of water and some mild dish detergent is a practical way to eliminate daily stains and spills. This simple cleaning routine will give the quartzite surface a long-lasting shine and luster.
FAQs
Some more details people would like to know about quartzite and quartzite countertops.
What Type of Rock is Quartzite?
Quartzite is a metamorphic stone.
What is Quartzite Made Of?
It is naturally formed of sandstone.
How to Get Stains Out of Quartzite?
Simply wiping the surface using a piece of soft fabric and some water is enough most of the time. For harder stains, you can use mild soap as well.
Is Quartzite The Hardest Rock?
No, a diamond is harder. But, if we are speaking of natural countertop materials, then quartzite is the hardest one.
What is The Standard Thickness of Quartzite?
The standard thicknesses in quartzite slabs are 2 cm and 3 cm.
What's The Difference Between Quartz and Quartzite Countertops?
Quartzite is a fully natural stone, while quartz is an engineered stone, containing mostly natural quartz and some additives.
What is The Difference Between Quartz and Quartzite?
Quartzite is all-natural, but quartz is an engineered stone. They add colors and resins to quartz slabs to give a uniform look and quality.
Is Quartzite A Metamorphic Rock?
Yes, it is.
Is Quartzite Foliated Or Non-Foliated?
It is non-foliated.
Where Can I Buy A Quartzite Countertop?
Landmark is a local store where you can find many quartzite countertop options to suit your tastes. You can call or drop by Landmark Surfaces in Chantilly, Alexandria, or Fredericksburg for all your home improvement projects involving countertops.