Quartzite

When it comes to choosing a material for your home or business surfacing needs, it can often feel overwhelming as there are what seems like an infinite number of options available to you. So that you don’t have to comb through article after article reading up on all the different materials out there as well as trying to understand the pros and cons that come along with them, use us as your go to source for any and all associated information. Week by week, we’ve been covering different surfacing materials telling you what they are and what is good and bad about them, where they are best used, and overall why we think a certain material would be good for you to use. So far we’ve covered Dekton, Radianz, Silestone, Travertine, Caesarstone, Limestone, and Slate. This week we’ll continue this trend covering Quartzite again explaining what it is and how it’s made, its associated advantages and disadvantages, where we think it is best used, as well as why we think quartzite is a good choice for you! Read below to find out all about quartzite and decide if it is the surfacing material for you!

What Is Quartzite & How Is It Made?

According to an article from Geology.com, Quartzite can be described as a “nonfoliated metamorphic rock composed almost entirely of quartz” that forms when intense heat and pressure is applied to a quartz-rich sandstone.

Because of the obvious similarity in their names, quartzite and quartz are often confused, so in addition to explaining what quartzite is, it is also imperative to discuss what it isn’t. Quartzite is not Quartz! Despite their similarity in naming, the two share few other characteristics. While quartz is man made material formed from crushed stone, color, and resin, quartzite is a naturally occurring metamorphic rock that must be quarried rather than engineered.

What Are The Advantages Of Quartzite?

Quartzite Is Strong & Durable

As explained above, intense heat and pressure turn quartz-rich sandstone into what we know as quartz. The intense heat and pressure “recrystallize the sand grains and the silica cement that binds them together” resulting in a “network of interlocking quartz grains.” This network of interlocking crystals give quartzite its strength and make it one of the toughest and most durable surfacing materials on the market.

Quartzite Has A Pleasing Aesthetic

It is no secret that Quartzite surfaces of any kind are beautiful. Their look is often compared to that of marble although marble is much less sturdy and isn’t near as dense. Quartzite is a great choice for those who want a certain look but aren’t willing to compromise on strength.

Quartzite Offers A Wide Array Of Color Choices

Like many natural stones, quartzite is available in a wide array of color options. While natural, earth-toned colors are most commonly seen, neutral colors such as white, grey, and beige are becoming more popular as lighter colors are becoming trendier in the home. Additionally, quartzite can be found in a number of “exotic” colors such as blue, green, pink, and red. The color of the stone all depends on the amount of iron oxide present, the region the stone comes from, and the age of the stone. If you aren’t quite sure what color is best for you but want a wide variety of tones to choose from, quartzite could be a great option for you!

What Are The Disadvantages Of Using Quartzite?

Higher Cost

Because quartzite is a natural stone that has to be quarried, it does not come cheap. While it is a bit on the expensive side of things, the cost is well worth it considering all the benefits. It would be hard to find another stone of such beauty and strength all in one.

Sensitivity Yields Maintenance

While quartzite is considered to be extremely durable, it must not be forgotten that it is a natural stone and thus requires a bit more attention that manufactured materials. When first installed, quartzite must be sealed and must be redone every year or so to ensure lasting quality. From here, it is important to make sure all spills are cleaned up quickly to lessen the chances of staining. Additionally, while quartzite is heat resistant, hot plates should be used when placing hot pots on its surface.

Where Is Quartzite Best Used?

Because Quartzite is extremely durable, it has the ability to be used in a number of different circumstances. From countertops and flooring to wall coverings and stair steps, quartzite can do it all! Thanks to its durability, quartzite has to ability to be placed anywhere, so whatever your need may be, quartzite is the answer!

By this point, you hopefully have a greater understanding of what quartzite is, its advantages and disadvantages, where its best used, and overall why we think it would be a good fit for your home. Quartzite is one of our favorite surfacing materials, so we hope you’ll strongly consider it! If you didn’t get all the information you needed here, no problem! We’re more than happy to supply you with what we believe to be credible sources when it comes to the topic at hand. Click here to find out more about Quartzite!