Choosing the right countertop for your kitchen renovation is a big decision. In Brampton and the Greater Toronto Area, homeowners are increasingly moving away from basic granite and looking for “The Ultimate Stone.” This usually leads to one major question: What is the difference between Quartz and Quartzite?
While they sound similar, they are actually very different materials. At Royal Kitchen Countertop Inc., we want to help you make the best investment for your home. Here is the 2026 breakdown of Quartz vs. Quartzite.
What is the Main Difference?
Quartz is an engineered stone. It is made by combining roughly 90-95% ground natural quartz with polymer resins and pigments. This allows for total control over the color and pattern.
Quartzite is a 100% natural metamorphic rock. It starts as sandstone and, through intense heat and pressure underground, transforms into quartzite. It is quarried in slabs, just like granite.
Durability and Heat Resistance
In a busy kitchen, durability is everything.
- Heat Resistance: Quartzite wins here. Since it was formed in the earth’s crust under extreme heat, it can handle hot pots and pans directly. Quartz, because of the resins used to bind it, can actually melt or discolor if exposed to temperatures above 300°F.
- Scratch Resistance: Both are incredibly hard (ranking around a 7 on the Mohs scale), but Quartzite is slightly more “bulletproof” against knives. However, because Quartz is engineered, it is more flexible and less likely to chip on the edges.
Maintenance: The “Sealing” Factor
This is usually the deciding factor for our clients in Mississauga and Brampton:
- Quartz is Non-Porous: It never needs to be sealed. It is naturally resistant to stains, bacteria, and moisture. You can spill red wine or coffee and wipe it up with zero stress.
- Quartzite is Porous: Like granite, it needs to be sealed at least once a year. If you forget to seal it, liquids can seep into the stone and leave permanent stains.
2026 Style Trends: What’s Popular in the GTA?
In 2026, we are seeing a shift toward “Quiet Luxury.” * Quartzite Trends: Homeowners love the “Taj Mahal” quartzite look—creamy tones with soft, natural veining that mimics marble but lasts longer.
- Quartz Trends: Modern quartz technology now allows for “Jumbo Slabs” with continuous veining, perfect for those massive kitchen islands seen in new Brampton builds.
Comparison Table: At a Glance
| Feature | Quartz (Engineered) | Quartzite (Natural) |
| Maintenance | Zero Sealing Required | Must be sealed yearly |
| Heat Resistance | Moderate (Use trivets) | Excellent |
| Stain Resistance | High (Non-porous) | Medium (Porous) |
| Appearance | Consistent Patterns | Unique, one-of-a-kind slabs |
| Best For | Busy families / Low upkeep | Natural stone lovers / Pro cooks |
Common Questions from Our Clients
Q: Is Quartzite more expensive than Quartz? A: Generally, yes. Because Quartzite is a natural stone that is harder to quarry and cut, the labor and material costs are typically 20-30% higher than standard Quartz.
Q: Can I use Quartz for an outdoor kitchen in Ontario? A: We don’t recommend it. The UV rays from the sun can yellow the resins in Quartz over time. For outdoor spaces, natural stones like Granite or Quartzite are much better.
Final Verdict: Which should you choose?
f you want a maintenance-free kitchen that looks perfect every day with just a soap-and-water wipe-down, Quartz is your winner. If you want the raw, unique beauty of nature and don’t mind a little bit of yearly maintenance, Quartzite is a luxury choice that will last a lifetime.
Ready to see these slabs in person? Visit Royal Kitchen Countertop Inc. today. We serve Brampton, Mississauga, and the entire GTA with premium stone and expert installation.