Quartzite vs. Granite Countertops: Which is Best for You? (Pros and Cons)

Last Updated on June 7, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford

If you are in the market for a new countertop, you may be wondering whether quartzite or granite is the best option. Both of these materials have their pros and cons, so it can be difficult to decide which is right for you.

In this blog post, we will compare quartzite and granite in terms of durability, cost, and appearance. We will also help you decide which material is best suited for your needs.

Quartzite countertops.

What is a quartzite countertop?

A quartzite countertop is a natural stone countertop that is made from the metamorphic rock, quartzite. Quartzite is a very strong and durable material that is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It is also a non-porous material, which means it will not absorb liquids or food spills.

What is quartzite transformed from?

Quartzite is a metamorphic rock that is formed when sandstone is subjected to high temperatures and pressures. This process results in the sandstone becoming harder and more resistant to weathering and erosion. Quartzite can be found in a variety of colors, including white, pink, gray, and black.

Pros of quartzite countertops:

Quartzite is one of the hardest materials on earth, making it an ideal choice for countertops. It is also heat and scratch resistant, which makes it a great choice for busy kitchens. Quartzite countertops are also very easy to clean and maintain.

Cons of quartzite countertops:

Quartzite is a natural stone, so it is porous and can stain if not sealed properly.

It is also a soft stone, so it can scratch and chip easily.

Quartzite countertops are also one of the more expensive countertop materials on the market.

Granite countertops.

How does granite form?

Granite is an igneous rock that forms when magma cools slowly beneath the earth’s surface. The magma must be cooled very slowly in order for the granite to form properly. If it cools too quickly, the granite will be formed incorrectly and will be of lower quality. Granite typically has a coarse texture with large crystals.

Pros of granite countertops:

-Granite is a very strong and durable material, making it an ideal choice for countertops.

-Granite is also heat resistant, so you can place hot pots and pans on it without worry.

-Granite is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only regular wiping with a damp cloth.

Cons of granite countertops:

-Granite is a porous material, which means it can absorb liquids and stains. If not sealed properly, your countertop can become stained and difficult to clean.

-Granite is a heavy material, so it requires extra support when installed. This can add to the overall cost of your countertop project.

-Granite is a natural material, so each piece is unique. This can make it difficult to find matching pieces for repairs or replacements.

Quartzite countertops vs. granite countertops

Appearance.

When it comes to appearance, both quartzite and granite countertops have a lot to offer. Quartzite countertops come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find the perfect look for your kitchen. Granite countertops also come in a variety of colors and patterns, but they tend to be more uniform in color than quartzite.

If you’re looking for a countertop that has a lot of personality, quartzite is the way to go. If you’re looking for a countertop that is more uniform in color, granite is the better option.

Color.

Quartzite comes in a wide range of colors, from white to black and every color in between. Granite also comes in a wide range of colors, but not as many as quartzite.

Texture.

Quartzite has a smooth texture that is similar to glass. Granite has a rough texture that is similar to sandstone.

Hardness.

There’s no question that both quartzite and granite are hard. But just how hard are they? Let’s take a look at the numbers.

Quartzite ranks a seven on the Mohs hardness scale. That means it will scratch glass and can resist most household cleaners. Granite, on the other hand, ranks a six to seven. That means it’s just slightly less hard than quartzite and may scratch more easily.

Cost.

When it comes to cost, both quartzite and granite countertops can be pricey.

Quartzite ranges from $50 to $100 per square foot, while granite typically costs about $40 to $70 per square foot.

However, quartzite tends to be a bit more expensive than granite. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, granite may be the way to go.

Composition.

Granite is made up of interlocking crystals of quartz, feldspar, and other minerals. Quartzite is also composed of interlocking crystals of quartz, but also contains a higher percentage of silica. The difference in composition gives granite a slightly lower density than quartzite, which makes it easier to work with during installation.

Seam Visibility.

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing between quartzite and granite countertops is seam visibility. Granite countertops are made up of large slabs, which means that the seams will be more visible than on quartzite countertops. Quartzite countertops, on the other hand, are made up of smaller pieces, which makes the seams less visible.

So, if you’re looking for a countertop with fewer visible seams, quartzite is the way to go. However, if you don’t mind the seams being more visible, granite is a great option too.

Durability.

When it comes to durability, quartzite is the clear winner. Quartzite is one of the hardest minerals on earth, second only to diamond. This makes it extremely resistant to scratching and chipping. Granite, on the other hand, is a much softer stone. While it is still quite durable, it is not as resistant to scratches and chips as quartzite.

Repairs And Replacements.

While granite is a natural stone, quartzite is actually a metamorphic rock that’s derived from sandstone. As a result, it’s significantly harder than granite—so much so that it can actually be used as an abrasive. That hardness does make quartzite more difficult to cut and shape during the fabrication process, which can add to the cost of quartzite countertops.

When it comes to repairs, both granite and quartzite countertops can be sanded down and refinished if they’re damaged. However, because quartzite is harder than granite, it will require a more abrasive material to be used during the sanding process, which can end up damaging the quartzite countertop more.

In terms of replacements, both granite and quartzite countertops can be replaced if they’re damaged beyond repair. However, because quartzite is harder than granite, it may be more difficult to find a replacement that matches your existing countertop.

Maintenance.

When it comes to maintenance, both quartzite and granite countertops are fairly easy to care for. However, there are a few key differences between the two materials. For instance, quartzite is more resistant to staining and scratching than granite. Additionally, quartzite does not need to be sealed as often as granite does.

Overall, quartzite countertops are a bit easier to care for than granite countertops. However, both materials are fairly low maintenance and easy to clean.

Heat Resistance.

Granite is heat resistant, but quartzite is even more so. In fact, quartzite can withstand up to 1200 degrees Fahrenheit before it begins to show signs of damage. This makes it an ideal choice for kitchens where there is a lot of cooking and baking going on. Quartzite can also be used outdoors in areas that get a lot of direct sunlight, as it will not fade or discolor over time.

So, if you’re looking for a countertop that can stand up to the heat, quartzite is the way to go.

Scratch resistance.

Quartzite is a harder material than granite, meaning it is more resistant to scratches. However, quartzite can still be scratched if something hard and sharp comes into contact with it.

Granite, on the other hand, is a bit more susceptible to scratching than quartzite. However, granite can also be scratch resistant if it is properly sealed.

Moisture Resistance.

While both quartzite and granite are quite resistant to moisture, quartzite is the more moisture resistant of the two. This is due to the fact that quartzite is a harder stone than granite. Quartzite can withstand spills and splashes better than granite, making it a great choice for kitchens and bathrooms. However, both stones should be sealed to protect them from staining.

So, if you’re looking for a stone that is resistant to moisture, quartzite is the way to go.

Sealing Needs.

One of the most important things to consider when choosing between quartzite and granite countertops is the sealing needs. Granite countertops require sealing every six months to one year, while quartzite countertops only need to be sealed once a year or so.

This can make a big difference in maintenance costs over time. If you choose granite, be sure to factor in the cost of sealing into your budget.

Home Resale Value.

When it comes to home resale value, quartzite countertops are a clear winner over granite countertops. In fact, quartzite countertops can add up to 20% more value to your home than granite countertops.

This is because quartzite is seen as a more premium material than granite and therefore commands a higher price point. Furthermore, quartzite is more durable than granite, making it a wise investment for those looking to sell their home in the future.

So, if you’re looking to add value to your home, quartzite countertops are the way to go.

DIY Installation.

Assuming you have the proper tools and materials, installing quartzite or granite countertops is a fairly easy process. However, there are some important differences to keep in mind when choosing which type of countertop to install.

Quartzite is a harder stone than granite, making it more difficult to cut and shape during installation. It is also a less forgiving material, so any mistakes made during installation are more likely to be visible.

Granite, on the other hand, is easier to work with and more forgiving of mistakes. It is also less expensive than quartzite.

Environmental Issues.

When it comes to environmental impact, quartzite and granite countertops are very similar. Both types of stone are quarried from the earth and then transported to factories where they are cut and polished. The transportation of these heavy stones results in a significant carbon footprint.

In terms of durability, quartzite is a slightly more environmentally friendly choice. Quartzite is a harder stone and therefore does not require as much maintenance or replacement as granite. Granite countertops need to be resealed every few years and can eventually crack or chip, requiring replacement.

If you are looking for the most environmentally friendly option for your countertops, consider using recycled materials such as glass or paper.

Quartzite countertops vs. granite countertops: Final Verdict.

It’s been a long and hard battle, but we’ve finally reached a verdict. After careful consideration of all the factors, we’ve come to the conclusion that quartzite countertops are the better choice over granite countertops. Here’s why:

Quartzite is more durable and heat resistant than granite, meaning it will better withstand the wear and tear of daily use in your kitchen. It’s also less likely to scratch or chip, making it a better investment in the long run.

In terms of appearance, quartzite has a more uniform look than granite, which can be helpful if you’re looking for a specific style for your kitchen. Quartzite is also available in a wider range of colors, so you’re sure to find the perfect match for your space.

Finally, quartzite is a more eco-friendly option than granite, as it doesn’t require the use of harsh chemicals in its production. For all these reasons, we believe quartzite is the better choice for your kitchen countertop needs.