Quartzite Countertops vs. Granite Countertops: Which is Better?

Countertops are an essential part of the structure and design of any kitchen or bathroom. There are a variety of materials to choose from when selecting the perfect countertop material to suit your specific needs. Two of the most popular countertop materials on the market today are quartzite and granite.

It can be difficult to choose between the two when selecting countertops for your home. In this article, we are going to explore the differences between granite and quartzite countertops in Denver so you can make an informed decision when selecting the materials for your kitchen or bathroom. We will compare and contrast their characteristics, durability, and cost to determine which is better for your home.

General Information about Quartzite and Granite 

Quartzite is a natural stone that is formed from sandstone that has been exposed to extreme heat and pressure. Quartzite is a durable material with a beautiful appearance that can range from white to grey, pink, and blue. It is popular among homeowners for its unique beauty and durability.

Granite is an igneous rock formed from the cooling of magma underground. Granite is composed of quartz, mica, and feldspar, which give it its appeal and durability. Granite is available in a variety of colors and patterns, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking to add a luxurious touch to their homes.

Maintenance

If you’re looking for natural stone that is resilient to wear and tear, quartzite is your best bet. Quartzite is a metamorphic rock created from sandstone through extreme heat and pressure.

Unlike granite, a natural stone sealer isn’t needed with quartzite; it needs only yearly cleaning instead of regular resealing like its engineered stone counterparts. Its natural level of resistance to scratching and staining makes it ideal for industries with high-traffic kitchens and bathrooms, such as busy family homes with children or pets.

Cost

The cost of quartzite and granite countertops varies greatly depending on the brand, quality, and installation fees. Generally speaking, quartzite countertops are more expensive than granite countertops. Quartzite is a relatively rare stone and will often require special handling and installation, driving up the cost.

On the other hand, granite countertops are much more affordable. Granite is a common stone and can be found in large quantities in many quarries. This makes it more affordable than quartzite.

Appearance

Quartzite is available in a variety of colors and patterns, making it an ideal choice for those who want to add a touch of luxury and elegance to their kitchen or bathroom. Quartzite is particularly popular for its unique veining that stands out against the rest of the countertop.

Granite is also available in a variety of colors and patterns, ranging from white to dark grey, pink, and blue. Granite countertops have an unmistakable charm and can be found in a variety of finishes that allow homeowners to customize their countertop design.

Durability

Quartzite is soft yet incredibly strong, making it perfect for any busy home. With its natural strength, quartzite is less likely to chip, crack, or scratch than granite and can stand up to the demands of a kitchen and bathroom in an active family home.

Additionally, soft quartzite is resistant to stains as well as nonporous, making it a low-maintenance stone that is easy to care for and will keep your kitchen counters or bathroom sinks looking timeless. Therefore, quartzite is ideal for anyone with children or pets in their home.

Sealing

Quartzite countertop surfaces are quickly becoming a popular trend amongst homebuilders and renovators due to their durability, softness, and non-porous structure.

This natural material consists of quartzite slabs, an incredibly dense material that does not require any sealing to retain its original finish; making it a much easier countertop surface to maintain over the long term. Quartzite does not stain or etch as granite countertops do so you can trust that your countertops will remain flawless for years to come.

Heat Resistance

Quartzite is a heat-resistant material and can withstand temperatures up to 250°F. Quartzite is an ideal choice for kitchen areas where hot pots and pans are frequently used.

Granite is also a heat-resistant material and can withstand temperatures up to 350°F. While granite is more heat-resistant than quartzite, it is important to note that granite is more susceptible to etching and staining when exposed to acidic foods and liquids.

Radon Emissions

Quartzite is a soft, durable natural stone that has become increasingly popular in recent years as a safe and non-radon-emitting alternative to granite.

Though quartzite is typically more expensive than granite, it comes with the peace of mind of knowing your family will be safe from radon exposure. Many manufacturers take extra steps to fortify their quartzite countertops, ideal for households with children or people who live with chronic health conditions. When selecting the perfect material for your home renovation project, quartzite presents an excellent choice for a beautiful and safer option.

Installation

Quartzite countertops will usually require more time to install than granite countertops due to their weight and hardness. It is important to hire an experienced professional for quartzite countertop installation to ensure it is done properly.

Granite countertops are typically easier to install than quartzite countertops. The weight and hardness of granite countertops vary from one product to the other, which can make a difference in the installation time.

Aesthetics

Quartzite countertops are available in a variety of colors, patterns, and finishes, making them an ideal choice for those who want to add a unique, luxurious touch to their home. Quartzite is particularly popular for its unique veining that stands out against the rest of the countertop.

Granite countertops are also available in a variety of colors and patterns and can be found in a variety of finishes. The veining on granite countertops is quite subtle compared to quartzite, making it a less bold choice for homeowners looking for a unique design.

Cleaning

Quartzite countertops are relatively easy to keep clean and require no special treatment. Quartzite is a non-porous material and is resistant to staining and scratching, which makes it a great choice for busy households.

Granite countertops are also easy to maintain and require no special treatment. However, granite is prone to staining and etching, so it is important to clean up spills quickly.

Resale Value

Quartzite countertops are a good investment for those looking to add value to their home. Quartzite is considered a luxury material and is desirable for those looking for a unique look for their kitchen or bathroom.

Granite countertops are also a good investment for those looking to add value to their home. Granite is a classic material that is still very popular in many homes and therefore will add value to your home.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, while both quartzite and granite countertops are both beautiful materials with their own unique merits, there are several key differences between them when it comes to maintenance, durability, and cost. Quartzite is a more durable material, is naturally non-porous, and requires no sealing, making it an ideal choice for busy households. However, quartzite is more expensive than granite. Granite is more affordable and is available in a variety of colors and patterns, making it an ideal choice for those wanting a bold, luxurious look. Both materials are durable and will add value to your home, so it comes down to a matter of preference.