When you’re looking for natural stone countertops in West Chester, PA, there are a number of options to select. We are often asked questions regarding which products provide the most value and durability to the kitchen. Some of the most aesthetically pleasing materials are natural quartzite and man-made or engineered quartz. To help you understand the difference, we’ve compared these two materials to help make your decision easier.
Benefits of Quartz Countertops
Quartz is a fabricated and man-made material that is manufactured with a resin. Though it is man-made, quartz has proven time and time again to produce an exceptional countertop.
- Available in a wide range of colors
- Non-porous and no sealing required
- Stain resistant
- Little to no maintenance and easy surface cleaning
Most quartz counters are manufactured with upwards of 97% ground quartz and combined with a variety of pigments, resins, and binders. Through this combination, quartz offers a seemingly natural beauty as the material sparkles to make your kitchen stand out. Many homeowners who see high amounts of traffic in their kitchen choose quartz because of its ability to avoid scratches and resist damage due to chemicals and heat.
Benefits of Quartzite Countertops
Quartzite is known for its natural beauty to complement the décor and surroundings in the kitchen. Because it is not a man-made material, the colors are unlimited, but it portrays a far-reaching beauty. Due to its nature, the material must be sealed to maintain ultimate protection. With quartzite, you’ll receive:
- Durability due to its hard structure
- Easy Repairs and Refinishing’s
- Unique slabs
- Resistance to heat and cold, as well as scratching
- Proven durability and won’t fade or discolor as years pass
- Not sensitive to UV light from the sun
Negatives of Both Countertop Materials
Varying from the benefits of a quartzite counter, the man-made quartz will discolor when exposed to too much sunlight or UV rays. While you’re required to seal and maintain quartzite. Though both are resistant to most scratching, the materials can be damaged by sharp objects, so it’s recommended that you use a cutting board.
You’ll see low maintenance and your guests will love the new look of your kitchen. You’ll have to consider the appearance in your kitchen as the seams of the countertops are visible. Perhaps the biggest downside is the inability to use integrated sinks with these materials, you’ll have to use under or top mounted sinks. There aren’t too many negatives associated with these materials, and you will get years of use from the material you select.
Prices are affordable and similar for both products. The decision comes down to whether or not you want to reseal your countertop about once a year (quartzite) or invest in 15 year stain protection. Add a little flair to your kitchen and remodel with slabs of quartz or quartzite that create an appealing environment. Visit our showroom to get an up-close look of our slabs, and we’ll help you come to the right decision based on your desires.