Quartzite or Granite for Your Dream Kitchen? Compare the Pros and Cons
With so many options for kitchen countertops these days, it can be tricky to decide between classic materials like granite and new contenders like quartzite. Both granite and quartzite are natural stones that make excellent choices for durable, stylish countertops that will last for decades. But they each have unique properties that set them apart.
We'll compare the pros and cons of each material to help you determine which is the best fit for your dream kitchen remodel or design project. You'll learn about the durability, appearance, maintenance requirements, and cost considerations of quartzite vs. granite. Let's dive in!
What is Quartzite?
Quartzite begins its life as sandstone, a sedimentary rock formed from compacted sand grains. Through heat and compression deep underground, the sandstone is transformed into quartzite, a hard, non-foliated metamorphic rock.
The intense heat and pressure cause the sand grains to fuse together and recrystallize. This recrystallization makes quartzite extremely hard and durable. It forms in a variety of attractive patterns and colors, including white, grey, pink, yellow, blue, and brown.
Pros of Quartzite Countertops
Here are some of the advantages of quartzite countertops:
- Extremely durable, scratch-resistant surface
- Resists staining, etching, and absorbing liquids
- Stands up well to heat, able to withstand temperatures up to 300°F
- Less prone to damage from acids, oils, and cleaners than granite
- Lower maintenance than granite, requires less sealing
Cons of Quartzite Countertops
Some potential downsides of quartzite include:
- Limited color/pattern options compared to granite
- On average, more expensive than granite
- Can be damaged by very acidic substances without sealant
- Surface may need re-sealing every 1-2 years
What is Granite?
Granite forms deep underground as magma cools and solidifies. This igneous rock contains interlocking mineral crystals such as quartz, feldspar, and mica. The mix of minerals and cooling pattern result in granite's speckled appearance.
Granite's mineral composition makes it extremely hard and durable, while also allowing intricate colors and patterns. It resists scratching, staining, and heat very well.
Pros of Granite Countertops
Here are some benefits of granite countertops:
- Extensive range of colors/patterns to match any kitchen
- Resistant to scratching, chipping, cracking, and heat up to 350°F
- Less expensive than quartzite on average
- Can last many years with proper sealing every 1-2 years
Cons of Granite Countertops
Some possible downsides of granite include:
- Porous surface requires more frequent sealing than quartzite
- Not quite as scratch or stain-resistant as quartzite
- Acidic liquids may stain granite if left unsealed
Quartzite vs. Granite: Direct Comparison
Let's do a head-to-head comparison of some key factors between these two natural stone countertop options:
Hardness and Durability
Quartzite is slightly harder than granite on the Mohs scale. It resists scratches, scuffs, and chips just a bit better. But both materials are extremely durable for countertops.
Appearance
Granite comes in a broader array of colors and patterns compared to quartzite. Quartzite patterns tend to be more subtle and lean towards grey/white tones.
Heat Resistance
Both materials have excellent heat tolerance, with granite resisting slightly higher temperatures up to 350°F vs 300°F for quartzite.
Maintenance
Quartzite is less porous than granite, so it usually requires less frequent sealing. Granite needs to be re-sealed every 1-2 years.
Cost
On average, quartzite runs $80-100 per square foot, while granite ranges from $50-80 per square foot. So quartzite tends to be more expensive.
How to Choose Between Quartzite and Granite
When deciding between quartzite and granite, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider your budget - quartzite is generally more expensive
- Think about your preferred colors/patterns
- Factor in maintenance expectations
- Assess if heavy usage or exposure to heat/acids is expected
- Compare to other surfaces like marble, engineered quartz, etc.
Granite and quartzite are both incredible natural stone options that will serve you well for kitchen countertops. Quartzite's extreme hardness gives it a slight edge for heavy-use kitchen areas. But granite remains a beautiful, affordable choice that offers more variety in colors and patterns.
Consider the pros and cons of each material carefully. And remember your countertop decision should balance practical factors like durability and maintenance with your aesthetic preferences. With quartzite vs granite countertops, you can't go wrong!