Looking to remodel a kitchen or a bathroom? Quartzite countertops should probably be near the top of your wish list.
Thanks to its impressive strength and durability, quartzite is an ideal countertop surface. Add the fact that quartzite is also known for its exquisite beauty, and it’s no surprise that it’s considered a premium product.
However, there’s a small catch. Though quartzite is a low-maintenance material, it’s not completely impervious to damage. If you want to ensure your countertop stays in perfect condition, you should do your best to protect it.
Here’s all you need to know about quartzite and its maintenance.
Quartzite and Quartz
Many homeowners assume that quartz and quartzite are similar countertop materials. The truth is, they couldn’t be more different.
Quartz countertops are generally manufactured from ground natural quartz (95%) and polymer resins (5%). On the other hand, quartzite is created when sandstone is altered by heat and pressure. In terms of appearance, quartzite has more in common with granite than quartz.
Speaking of appearance, most types of quartzite come in gray and white colors. However, this depends on the amount of iron oxide present in the stone. In some cases, quartzite can take on pink, red, blue, green, and yellow tones.
Sealing Quartzite
When it comes to quartzite countertops, your first maintenance step should be sealing.
Due to its rock-hard structure, quartzite is naturally protected against etching and chipping. On the other hand, it’s somewhat vulnerable to sucking up wine and other spills. To keep it in tip-top shape, consider sealing your countertop on an annual basis.
As a general rule with granite kitchen countertops in Lawrenceville you should use penetrating sealers made from siliconates. These sealers are great at soaking into the surface of the stone, which helps them repel unnecessary liquids. They also last longer than most other stone sealers.
Sealing the countertop is easy enough: simply wipe on (or spray) the sealer, and leave it to dry. Don’t forget to open the windows while applying the sealer, as the fumes can be noxious.
Maintenance
Once the countertop is sealed, further maintenance is practically an afterthought.
From time to time, you can use a wet microfiber cloth to dust off the stone. Alternatively, you can swipe it off with a damp cloth and a couple of drops of mild detergent.
Keep in mind that you shouldn’t use cleaners with citrus or vinegar bases. These cleaners contain citric and acetic acids, which will slowly wear away at sealants. This can also make quartzite seem duller than it should.
Stains shouldn’t appear often, but removing them is not much of a bother. You can either use a commercial poultice product or a baking soda paste. Apply a layer of paste on the stain, cover it with a plastic wrap, and wipe it clean after a day or two.
Where to Buy Quartzite Countertops
Interested in purchasing a quartzite countertop for your kitchen or bathroom? Good choice! We’re selling these luxurious products at a fair price, and you can make sure of that by contacting us right here.
