Granite Vs. Quartzite: Which Is Best For Kitchen Countertops?
When choosing a natural stone countertop for your kitchen, you may find yourself wondering which one to go with: granite or quartzite. Both are great options that will enhance the beauty of your kitchen while being durable. However, there are some differences between them that should be considered before making a decision. We’ll be comparing the two in terms of durability, resistance, aesthetics, variety, color, and pattern. Tips on how to care and maintain your stone countertop will also be provided.
Granite Vs. Quartzite:
Durability & Resistance
Granite is one of the hardest stones you can find naturally. On the Mohs Hardness Scale, granite measures between a 6 and a 6.5. It consists of quartz, feldspar, and other minerals that give it strength and resistance to heat, scratches, stains, and chemicals. With proper care and sealing it can serve you for decades.
Harder than granite is quartzite at a 7 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. It’s made from sandstone that’s been exposed to high pressure and heat. As a result, this stone is mostly composed of quartz crystals. Quartzite also has resistance against heat, scratches, stains, and chemicals too. However there are some types that contain calcium carbonate which can react with acidic substances and cause etching.
Both stones are built differently but have similar benefits in terms of durability and resistance. A busy kitchen won’t even put a dent in them! But if we had to choose one over the other then we’d say that quartzite takes the cake because of its hardness and heat resistance alone Granite does have an advantage though over quartzite when it comes to stain and scratch resistance.
Aesthetics and Variety
Granite is known for its natural beauty and diversity. It can come in a very wide range of colors, textures, and patterns. You want soli black? You got it. Speckled white? Sure. Smooth to rough? Yep that too. Depending on your own personal taste, you have two choices: polished to a high gloss or honed to a matte finish. One thing is for certain with granite countertops though, none of them will be the same.
Quartzite on the other hand has the beauty and versatility to rival granite. With veins and swirls of different colors and shades, it looks similar to marble. Quartzite also has a sparkling effect due to quartz crystals being caught up in its composition. It’s available in many colors too, like white, gray, pink and blue just to name a few. Want different looks? That’s achievable by either polishing or honing it.
Both granite and quartzite are aesthetically pleasing and varied materials that can suit any kitchen style and design. However, quartzite may have a slight edge over granite in terms of elegance and sophistication, as it resembles marble more closely. On the other hand, granite may have an advantage over quartzite in terms of uniqueness and originality, as it has more variations and patterns.
Color and Pattern Variations
When choosing the material of your countertop, there are a few other things to think about. One of those things is color and pattern. You want it to look good with everything else in your kitchen like cabinets,Stone backsplash, and flooring.
Granite can range from subtle to dramatic when it comes to color and pattern. Its composition of minerals and crystals allow it to have solid, speckled, or lined patterns. There’s also different levels of porosity. Every factor changes its texture and color. Some may have more pores than others which causes them to stain and get discolored easily.
If you go with Quartzite instead then you’ll end up with a uniform look. It’s usually gray or white but can still have different colored veins running through it. Some flecks or sparkles may appear too adding some shine and dimension to the surface. You don’t have to worry about persistent liquids or stains ruining the material since it has low porosity.
Both options will enhance your kitchen’s visual appeal with their variation in color and pattern. Granite might offer more contrast though due to its wide range of options and combinations. On the other hand quartzite might give off a more refined look as granite can be inconsistent at times depending on what you choose and how they’re placed in your kitchen.
Cost
When you’re thinking about getting a countertop, one of the earliest things that come to mind is the cost. Granite and quartzite aren’t just premium materials that make your kitchen look beautiful, but also expensive. To know the exact price on both you’ll need to factor in things like size, thickness, color, patterns, quality of the slab and any additional installation and fabrication fees.
However, on average, you can expect to pay between $60 and $120 per square foot for granite countertops, and between $90 and $200 per square foot for quartzite countertops. Quartzite is generally more expensive than granite because it is rarer and harder to quarry and process.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which One Is More Resilient to Heat and Scratches?
When thinking about a countertop’s ability to withstand heat and scratches, it’s crucial to prioritize durability. Granite stands out as a robust choice here, showing excellent heat resistance, making it a perfect match for handling hot pots and pans without a hitch. It also provides a sturdy defense against scratches. On the other side, Quartzite is heat-resistant too, but it might be a tad more susceptible to scratches compared to granite. For extra protection, you can seal both materials to boost their resistance to scratches, ensuring that your countertop stays strong and long-lasting.
How Do Granite and Quartzite Differ in Terms of Maintenance?
Maintaining your kitchen countertop is key to its longevity and appearance. Granite needs regular sealing to guard against stains and keep its natural shine. In contrast, Quartzite, being less porous, often requires less maintenance when compared to granite. For everyday care, using a gentle cleaning solution and a soft cloth is the way to go for both surfaces, making it simple to keep them looking pristine with minimal effort.
Which Material Offers More Design Versatility?
Design versatility is a significant factor in creating a kitchen that matches your style and preferences. Granite offers a broad selection of natural colors and patterns, giving you a wide palette to work with for various kitchen designs. Quartzite, while it does provide different colors and patterns, may have some design limitations compared to the versatility of granite. However, it’s worth noting that if you have a specific design in mind, Quartzite can be customized with particular colors and patterns, allowing you to tailor your countertop to your unique style.
What Is the Price Range for Granite and Quartzite Countertops?
Understanding the financial aspect of your decision is essential for budget planning during a kitchen renovation. Granite countertops come in a wide price range, with variations depending on how rare the stone is. Quartzite, on the other hand, typically falls on the higher end of the price scale because of its natural elegance. Additionally, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the final cost can be influenced by factors such as installation, location, and project complexity, so it’s important to consider the overall investment when making your choice.
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