Granite, marble, and quartz are common countertop materials that can be found in virtually every home. Of course, these materials are not without their competition. There is a new player in the field, one that may soon dominate the market due to its unique beauty, impressive durability, and long-lasting qualities: quartzite.
What is quartzite? Is it natural? What does it look like? Can it handle the rigors of everyday use in a kitchen or bathroom? Read on for the answers and to find out if quartzite countertops in Marietta are a good fit for your residence or business.
What Is Quartzite? Is It Natural?
First of all, quartzite is not quartz! Despite their similar names, they are as similar to each other as marble is to granite: they are beautiful stones but they have distinct qualities that may make one advantageous. Many people may assume that by the suffix "-ite" that quartz is a smaller version of quartz, an imitation, or a manufactured substance.
In reality, though, both are completely natural and actually very different. While quartz is a silicon dioxide-based crystalline stone, quartzite is a type of metamorphic rock, or a rock that changes due to natural processes such as the immense heat and pressure that creates slate. Quartzite begins as ordinary sandstone, but once it refines, it becomes beautiful, patterned, and extremely hard. Because it is immensely strong and rarer than quartz, it is not a widely-used countertop material. However, its advantages make it a valuable and unique substance that can stand out in any home as a kitchen counter, bathroom counter, or backsplash material.
Think of quartzite as a newly appreciated substance that is gaining popularity. Its specific strengths make it highly valuable. Its beauty, in particular, is the specific draw.
What Does It Look Like?
Natural quartzite is typically a pure, clean white color or a cool, modern gray. Occasionally, it may have notes of brown or black. Rarely, notes of red, blue, green, and yellow will be dominant due to the presence of other bright minerals in the rock. Such variety is natural and characteristic of a material made only by Mother Nature.
When manufactured into slabs and polished for installation, quartzite will be extremely vibrant, and reflective--the latter giving it a clean and modern appearance.
Can It Handle Everyday Use?
Quartzite is renowned for its strength, so scratching and nicking will not be a problem provided that the countertops are correctly sealed. Still, though, you should avoid using knives directly on the surface and try not to drop anything heavy on them.
While stone can handle some levels of cold and heat, extreme heat can potentially warp quartzite. Hot dishes should not be a problem, but placing a hot pot directly on them from the stovetop is not recommended for any material.
If you install quartzite in your home, you will need to care for it regularly. After all, its durability does not mean it is invincible. It should be resealed fairly often (once a year is the expert recommendation).
If the above qualities sound like the beautiful, natural, and durable features you want in a countertop, consider speaking with experts who can help you select and install quartzite countertops in Marietta. Then watch as they transform and improve every room in which you add them.
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