You stare at them every day. Prep your food there. Toss your bags on them. So yeah, they matter.
Lately, quartzite stone countertops are popping up everywhere. They’re hot right now. And honestly, it’s easy to see why.
They’re natural. Beautiful. And way tougher than they look. But don’t jump in just yet.
You’ve got to understand what you’re really getting. That’s where this guide helps.
We’ll talk about materials, costs, care tips—and yeah, how it compares to granite Milwaukee WI favorites.
Ready? Cool. Let’s get into it.
What Is Quartzite, Anyway?
So, quartzite is basically sandstone that goes to the gym. Seriously.
It’s sandstone that was cooked underground by heat and pressure. Nature turned it into this super tough rock.
It’s 100% natural. Not mixed with resins like quartz. People confuse them all the time. But they’re different beasts.
Quartzite is raw. Earth-made. No shortcuts. And that’s part of what makes it awesome.
Why People Love Quartzite
First off—it’s tough. Like really tough. Think stone that laughs at scratches.
It scores around 7 on the Mohs scale. That’s harder than granite Milwaukee WI countertops, which sit around 6 or so.
The Natural Stone Institute says quartzite is one of the most durable natural stones you can buy.
And it handles heat like a champ. Hot pans? No problem.
Plus, it’s straight-up gorgeous. Looks kinda like marble, but without all the drama.
So if you want elegance with less babysitting, this stone checks the boxes.
Quartzite vs. Granite: Let’s Compare
Let’s break it down. Granite’s been around forever. It’s the go-to in lots of kitchens.
But if you're after something that combines beauty, strength, and serious staying power, quartzite stone countertops might just be your perfect match.
They offer the elegance of marble—with none of the high-maintenance worries. Scratch-resistant, heat-tough, and built for everyday life, quartzite holds up like a champ.
And the visual appeal? Next level. Every slab features naturally unique patterns that add luxury without trying too hard.
Sure, they run a little higher in price, but it’s an investment that pays off in both style and durability.
With quartzite, you're not just upgrading your kitchen—you’re elevating your entire home.
Is Quartzite Actually That Strong?
Yes. It’s legit strong. Everyday kitchen chaos? This rock’s got it covered.
The Marble Institute of America did tests. Quartzite came out swinging.
It took heat, knives, drops—and didn’t flinch.
It’s denser than you’d expect. More solid than granite in many cases.
It rarely chips or cracks unless you go full Hulk on it.
Still, treat it right and it’ll last decades. Maybe even a lifetime.
What’s It Look Like?
Quartzite? Total stunner. It’s got this soft, natural beauty that feels calm.
Usually comes in whites, grays, creams. You’ll find the occasional soft green or pink.
It often mimics marble, but not in a cheap copycat way. More like a cooler cousin.
Designers go nuts for it. Especially if you’re into a clean, timeless look.
Top picks? Taj Mahal, White Macaubas, and Sea Pearl. Classy but never boring.
Each slab is unique too. No two look the same. Kinda like a fingerprint.
Does It Need Special Cleaning?
Sorta, yeah. It’s low-maintenance—but not zero maintenance.
Quartzite’s porous. That means liquids can sneak in if you’re not sealing it.
So, seal it. Once or twice a year should do it.
Red wine, oil, coffee—these are your enemies. But only if you slack on the seal.
For daily cleaning, just use a soft cloth and mild soap. Skip the bleach. No harsh stuff.
Give it a little love, and it’ll keep that showroom shine.
The Price Tag
Okay, let’s talk about cash. Quartzite isn’t cheap. That’s the deal.
Expect to drop anywhere from $90 to $120 per square foot installed.
That price includes the slab, the cutting, and getting it in place.
Rare colors or slabs with insane veining? Even pricier.
Granite Milwaukee WI suppliers usually offer more affordable options if you’re on a tighter budget.
But quartzite’s value lasts longer. Less damage. Fewer repairs. It’s an investment.
Is It Eco-Friendly?
Surprisingly, yeah. It’s pretty green.
It’s all-natural. No synthetic fillers or factory emissions.
And if you buy from a local quarry? Even better for the planet.
The stone just gets cut and polished. No big carbon footprint there.
So if you want a kitchen that looks good and feels good? This fits the bill.
How’s It Installed?
Warning: Don’t DIY this. Seriously. Walk away from the saw.
Quartzite is too hard for basic tools. You need pros with diamond blades.
They’ll measure, cut, polish, and install. All with precision.
Usually takes a day or two. Depends on the layout.
Also, it’s heavy. Really heavy. Cabinets need to be strong enough to support it.
Trust the pros. Your back will thank you.
Is Quartzite Right for You?
Let’s keep it real. Quartzite isn’t for everyone.
If you want bold colors or wild patterns, maybe stick with granite.
But if you’re all about durability, style, and easy upkeep? Quartzite is your stone.
It fits into modern, rustic, or traditional kitchens. Totally versatile.
And yeah, it costs more. But you get peace of mind—and something that won’t go out of style.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a countertop isn’t just about looks. It’s about daily use—and long-term value.
Quartzite stone countertops are built to last. They look amazing and hold up under pressure.
Sure, they cost more. But the payoff? So worth it.
If you're in the Midwest, explore top-rated granite options in Milwaukee, WI to compare styles, prices, and durability.
Now you’ve got the facts. You’re ready to make a smart move.
FAQs
Q: Is quartzite better than granite?
A: Depends what you want. Quartzite is harder. Granite has more color choices and costs less.
Q: How often do I need to seal it?
A: Once or twice a year. It keeps stains out and shine in.
Q: Can it crack or chip?
A: Only if seriously abused. It’s a tough cookie.
Q: Is it really worth the price?
A: Most say yes. It lasts forever and stays beautiful.
Q: Can I install it myself?
A: No way. It’s heavy and needs pro tools. Let the experts do it.