Countertops 101: The Main Differences Between Quartz ...

Some people may want some alternatives for their new home renovation projects. Granite countertops have become a classic, but some people want other options to try. Both quartz and quartzite are popular materials for home décor projects, especially for countertop renovations. Most people may think the two are similar materials, but in fact, they differ in terms of what they are made of, maintenance, durability, and appearance.

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The main difference lies in how they are made. Quartz is an engineered material. A quartz slab is made of approximately 93% crushed ground quartz, a crystal-like mineral that occurs naturally, mixed with 7% resin to create an extremely strong surface that can be compared to granite in various ways. Quartzite is a natural stone that bears some similarities to marble. If you are interested in using quartz or quartzite for your new project, it is a good idea to know the basic differences between the two:

Caring and Maintenance

One of the biggest advantages of quartz slabs over quartzite is the fact that maintaining the product is effortless. Our quartz slabs require almost no maintenance. The only thing you need to do is clean the countertops with a damp cloth, just like you would any surface. It's as simple as that!

Since quartzite is a natural stone, it requires a bit more care. An essential step in maintaining quartzite is properly sealing it during installation. Quartzite slabs also require resealing once or twice a year to prevent stains from penetrating the surface. After proper sealing, the care routine becomes just as easy as that for quartz countertops.

Durability

It's important to emphasize that quartzite slabs are strong and can be harder than granite. They are not only durable enough to handle busier areas of your space but also highly heat-resistant. However, quartzite slabs can be prone to chips and dents due to their nature.

While the colors of quartz slabs can fade when exposed to direct sunlight for a prolonged period, quartz is also quite durable. One significant advantage of quartz over quartzite is its flexibility, which helps the slab avoid dents and chips.

Appearance

Since Quartz is man-made, its designs can easily be created in a variety of patterns and colors. Quartzite’s designs, on the other hand, usually range from white to gray with some inclusion of pink and/or red hues since it is a natural stone. When other minerals are involved with quartzite slabs, the color hues may involve blues and greens as well. Whether it's an engineered slab or a natural stone, both materials offer a wide range of selections ensuring you find the perfect one for your space.

When it comes to making a decision, it boils down to personal preferences since both quartz and quartzite slabs are excellent choices for your renovation project. It depends on your priorities. If you prefer natural stones for your countertops, you might lean towards quartzite. Conversely, if you are inclined towards more diverse designs, quartz would be a better option. Additionally, if you are not a fan of sealing your countertops, then quartz is worth considering.

As one of the largest granite suppliers in Houston, Terra Granite offers a rich collection of both quartz slabs and quartzite slabs. Please make sure you visit www.terragranite.com and www.veraquartz.com or visit our local store in Houston for more ideas and information on quartz and quartzite slabs. Our trained professionals are ready to assist you with anything you need.

Benefits of Using Engineered Quartz or Man-Made Quartz

Benefits of Using Engineered Quartz or Man-Made Quartz

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Man-made quartz has become an extremely popular interior stone option among designers, contractors, and more in recent years. Specifically, quartz refers to a man-made stone option that is typically composed of about 90-97% natural quartz that is mixed with resin and pigment to create a unique look. Many different brands of man-made quartz are available on the market, each offering various colors and styles to help you achieve your ideal look. Some major brands include Silestone, Caesarstone, Pental Quartz, Alleanza, Polarstone, Cambria, and Aurea.

Benefits of Engineered Quartz for Commercial Applications and More

Engineered quartz or man-made quartz are very popular options for both kitchen and bathroom countertops. However, they have also become the countertop choice for university or office cafeterias, commercial applications, medical buildings, office buildings, and more, for several good reasons. Man-made quartz is extremely durable and can withstand many different activities. Unlike some natural stones, it will not etch easily when exposed to common household items such as lemon juice, lime juice, vinegar, wine, or other acids.

Man-made quartz is very stain-resistant, so spilling a bit of red wine on a white quartz countertop should not result in staining. Overall, man-made quartz is practically maintenance-free, appealing to many contractors, builders, developers, and homeowners who don't want the maintenance headaches that come with other stone options. It can also be easily cleaned with a cloth if dirt and grime accumulate.

Additionally, engineered quartz is highly resistant to scratching, staining, and other surface damage due to its hardness. It can hold up in high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens, work well on walls, and even be used as flooring without etching or damaging. While engineered quartz countertops are resistant to staining, some clients find that using a special sealer formulated for engineered quartz helps with the daily cleaning and care of the countertop. In particular, engineered stones with a concrete look, honed finish or lighter colors benefit from this sealer.

Because engineered quartz and quartz are both man-made, another significant benefit is the many customization options. You can find man-made or engineered quartz in almost any color or style imaginable, making it easy to coordinate with any design and project.

What Else Do You Need to Know?

If you're considering man-made quartz or engineered quartz for a project requiring kitchen or bathroom countertops, one thing to keep in mind is the potential size limitation. Like any stone, slabs can only be made so large, so if you're looking for an exceptionally large countertop or island surface, it may be necessary to piece more than one slab together, resulting in a visible "seam." This seam can be more noticeable on plain or solid-colored quartz surfaces.

Engineered slabs vary by brand. Most standard size slabs are approximately 55-56"x120". Due to the demand for larger slab counters or islands, manufacturers produce jumbo slabs in select colors. Jumbo slabs typically run around 63"x128". The industry recognizes the need for larger slabs, but there are issues with manufacturing, shipping, fabricating, and installing larger materials. The good news is that if a seam is necessary, it can be set tight with color-matched epoxy for the best look.

Manufacturers have also seen a high demand for thinner slabs. Brands like Silestone now offer slabs that come 1.2 cm thick, making them suitable for wall applications, backsplashes, showers, and wet areas. Opting for a thinner slab will help keep costs down and make the installation process easier.

It's important to note that engineered quartz is not recommended for exterior applications in New England. Due to the elements (rain, snow, sun, etc.), the resin in the product will break down over time when exposed. For projects requiring natural stone for exterior applications, sintered stones like Dekton or Lapitec are highly recommended. Additionally, engineered stone around fireplace facings is not recommended. High heat from a gas or wood-burning fireplace can compromise the material's integrity and lead to failure.

The Bottom Line

For those looking for a low-maintenance natural stone option that will not easily etch, stain, or scratch, engineered quartz or man-made quartz is an excellent choice. And because both are man-made, it is possible to find either stone option in a wide range of colors and styles to meet any interior stone needs. To learn more about engineered quartz, man-made quartz, and our many brand offerings, contact our team at Connecticut Stone today!

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