Custom Quartzite
to Match
Any Aesthetic
Custom Quartzite to Match Any Aesthetic
If you’re hunting for show-stopping countertops for your kitchen or bathroom remodel, quartzite may be the perfect option. Quartzite is a non-foliated metamorphic rock that primarily consists of quartz and is incredibly strong. The stone is formed when quartz-rich sandstone is altered by heat, pressure, and chemical activity, a process which creates intricate patterns that are unique to each slab.
Benefits of Quartzite Countertops
Defining why quartzite provides an advantage as a countertop is simple: From aesthetics to physical perks, there are hundreds of reasons to fall in love with this natural stone.
Defining Qualities
- Quartzite is harder than granite, which makes it a desirable choice for both kitchen and bathroom countertops.
- It's less prone to denting or chipping than other natural stone options.
- Quartzite can withstand heat up to 300°F (149°C), but you'll want to use trivets or pot holders to protect the clarity if the item to be set on it gets any hotter.
Durability
- Quartzite scales on the higher end of durability as a natural stone.
- This is a perk in countertops because it is longer-lasting and doesn't show wear and tear like other options.
- In addition to being a heavy-duty option, quartzite is highly resistant to UV rays which enables its use for both indoor and outdoor countertops.
- The stone won't fade as much over time compared to travertine or limestone.
Color Ranges
- Quartzite comes in earthier and more natural tones, providing you with a true stone look while still looking elegant.
- You can find other color options, but they're typically rarer and cost more than your average choices.
- Quartzite is generally found in white to gray, but traces of oxide will create shades of pink and red.
- You may find that your countertops have gorgeous streaks of different colors throughout, depending on the minerals mixed in when your quartz was originally going through metamorphosis.
- This often creates beautiful milky patterns and gives a splash of light combined with a hint of dark to create a unique look.
Quartzite Countertop Considerations
It’s best to review all options as you consider which natural stone countertops will be the best for your kitchen or bathroom remodel. You’ll want to come to your showroom or interior design partner with an understanding of the types of activities and stressors you’re expecting your countertops to handle. A professional can then help you determine whether your number one choice can accommodate your needs. In the meantime, here are some pros and cons of quartzite countertops to help you get a base idea of what they’re known to handle.
Pros Quartzite Countertops
- There's no need for special cleaners, as quartzite can be maintained with soap and warm water so long spills are cleaned up fairly quickly.
- It also gives homeowners a nice marble look while typically being less expensive.
- The stone is very durable.
- Quartzite is heat-resistant.
Cons of Quartzite Countertops
- The stone will show scratches from knives if hit at the right angle or hard enough, making using a cutting board a must to assist in maintenance.
- Lower-quality quartzite slabs may need to be resealed more often than other options — once a year, compared to higher quality quartzite’s several years.
Colors
With quartzite primarily giving you white and gray color options, you can easily aim for a more modern and minimalistic look in your kitchen or bathroom. Brighten up the room with these lighter colors, or use your gray options to give a smoky aesthetic that brings out your cabinets.
Veining
You can choose between bold colors or lighter blends, but you’ll often find distinct veining in quartzite. This gives you unique patterns with both simple and intricate designs.
Marbled
Since quartzite often resembles marble, you can select a crystalline appearance that mimics marble but also provides a little extra sparkle.
Deciding the right edges on your countertops can help them last longer, minimize maintenance, and make or break your design aesthetic. An interior design expert can help you decide between these and other possible decorative countertop edges that might be available for your kitchen or bathroom renovation project. Here are a few of the most commonly used with quartzite to get your creativity flowing.
Bevel – The most popular bevel is a half-bevel edge, which gives you a clipped flat corner at a 45-degree angle. This is subtle yet stylish, and ideal for making sure spills don’t sit on your natural stone countertops.
Round Over and Double Round Over – Depending on whether you go with round or double round over edges, this option will make your countertops appear slightly thicker than it is. This is because the edge of the counter is sanded to round down and tuck under itself for a smooth look.
Half Bullnose – With a slight curve on the upper portion of your countertop, the half bullnose edge combines both bevel and round over to bring the best of both worlds. Get the perks of spillage running off easily as well as that slightly thicker appearance.
Maintaining Your quartzite
Similar to granite, quartzite is incredibly easy to clean and maintain. A few tips for preserving the quality of your granite are as follows.
- Warm water with a drop of dish soap will feel like magic when cleaning.
- You can wipe away any dirt or grime easily to return your countertops to their natural shine.
- Since quartzite is so easy to clean you'll have no need for chemical cleaners.
- Just be sure to clean spills quickly to avoid staining and long-term damage.
Ready to See If Quartzite Might Be Right for Your Project?
If you’re ready to begin hunting for that perfect countertop choice, contact A&S Home Interiors with any questions you may have. Our team of experts will help you determine what will best fit your needs and budget. Set up an appointment to visit our showroom today.
