Quartzite has been gaining in popularity as a countertop material in the past few years—and for good reason. With a look that is often similar to marble and a durability comparable to granite, this natural stone seems to have it all.
Why Choose Quartzite?
Quartzite is beautiful and exotic. People often choose it when they’re looking for something different. It’s a great way to change up your space (see our selection of quartzite slab). Two of its strongest selling points is its hardness and durability. Quartzite is nearly twice as hard as glass and harder than the blade of a knife. It is also resistant to common kitchen acids and will not etch when exposed to things like lemon juice or vinegar.
Easy Care and Maintenance
Caring for quartzite is similar to caring for granite. We recommend wiping up counters regularly with a gentle cleanser, water, and a soft cloth or paper towel.
As with any surface, simple preventative measures should be taken to protect quartzite countertops. Wipe up spills and moisture as quickly as possible, and use coasters, trivets, and cooling racks. We also recommend utilizing cutting boards, though perhaps not for the reason you’d expect: “Quartzite is extremely high on the Mohs hardness scale. When it’s that high, it could dull your knives.”
What About Sealing?
The application of an impregnating sealer to any natural stone countertop can increase the countertop’s stain resistance. Depending on the density and porosity of the stone, the necessity for sealing can range from being not required at all to being required at initial installation and reapplied at specific intervals.
Is sealing required for quartzite? It depends on the stone’s porosity. Quartzite is made of metamorphosed sandstone. Depending on the amount of metamorphosis, each quartzite can be more or less porous. Porous varieties of quartzite, such as White Macaubas and Calacatta Macaubas, may benefit from the application of a good sealer. Many modern sealers can protect stone from 1-10 years, and some have stain removal warranties. Your fabricator or stone supplier can provide specific guidance on choosing the appropriate product for your stone.
Generally speaking, the best indication that a countertop needs sealing is to watch the area around the kitchen sink. If you notice the stone darkening around the sink from water, it may mean that a sealer is needed—or that the current sealer is becoming less effective. Make sure the stone is cleaned and allowed to dry completely before applying the sealer. Sealing is an easy job for most homeowners to do using an impregnating sealer purchased from your fabricator or a local big-box store. When in doubt, contact a restoration professional in your area.
Ready to give your kitchen an upgrade? Ask about our custom Charleston Quartzite Countertops for your next kitchen renovation! Contact us for more information on your upcoming kitchen renovations. We have the best prices, top talent, and passion for making ordinary kitchens into extraordinary entertainment areas!