Are Quartzite and Quartz The Same?

When you are remodeling rooms in your home, there are many options for the materials that you can use. If you are changing out the countertop, in any room, there are choices to make and things to know. One of the big misconceptions when thinking of countertop material is that quartz and quartzite are the same. While the names are similar, the materials have differences. We will discuss the intricacies of both materials below.

Differences

Quartzite is a natural stone, while quartz in an engineered stone. Quartz is comprised of quartz crystals, resins, and pigments. This allows quartz to be available in a variety of patterns and colors. Because quartzite is a natural stone, there are less color options available. Mainly quartz is found in white and gray hues, with some other colors embedded due to iron oxide being in the stone. Since quartzite is natural stone, the countertop would need to be sealed to protect it. Unsealed quartzite can absorb water and grease. Quartzite is also UV resistant, so the countertop is less likely to fade in direct sunlight. Quartz, on the other hand, has the ability to fade. It will be important to keep this in mind when understanding where the natural light hits in the room.

Similarities

Even though they are different types of materials, there are similarities between them. Quartzite and quartz contain a high quantity of quartz. Additionally, they can be cleaned with plain soap and water without the need for harsh chemicals. Both materials have issues with very hot pots and pans being placed directly on top of them, with quartz being more sensitive to the heat. It is probably best not to use sharp knives directly on either countertop as well. The material could have the opportunity to become scratched. Another item both materials have in common is that the materials are harder than granite.

Prices

Since quartz is engineered stone, it is less expensive than quartzite. Quartzite will need to have a custom cutting for your countertop because it is natural stone. This will increase the installation costs along with the higher material costs. Quartzite, being a natural stone, will need to be resealed every 1 to 2 years as well to make sure it doesn’t become damaged or stained. Part of the cost related to either material is how much countertop the room has, and if you are changing one room’s worth of countertop or all the countertops in your home.