Cincinnati Idea Book November 2023

Which is lower maintenance?
Quartz is extremely durable. It has
a non-porous surface that does not
need to be sealed. This surface acts as
a barrier against staining and bacteria.
Use cutting boards when you chop on
quartz, otherwise you might etch the
surface. Then acids in food may erode
the resins to result in dull white spots.
Quartzite is slightly harder and more
scratch-resistant than quartz, but its
porous surface will absorb stains and
bacteria if not sealed before installation
and on an annual or semi-annual basis.
Cutting gently with knives directly on
a quartzite countertop will not cause
etching.
Which can take the heat?
The resin in quartz melts at around
300 degrees, so avoid placing hot pans
directly on these countertops as it may
damage the resin and leave a mark or
divot.
Quartzite can handle much higher heat
including hot pans placed directly on its
surface, but having said that, it’s always
a good idea to use a pad or trivet. ➻
1 Fantasy Brown Leather quartzite;
Contractor: J.S. Brown & Company;
Fabricator: Konkus, Photo by Todd
Yarrington 2 Caesarstone Alpine Mist
quartz from Cincinnati StoneWorks;
Builder: Michaelson Homes, Photo by
William Manning Photography 3 Cambria
USA Skara Brae from Lumberman’s by
Neal’s Design and Remodel; Designer:
Christina Temple, Project Consultant:
Frank Kuhlmeier, Photo by Ross Van Pelt 1
30 housetrends.com