Quartzite protection
True quartzite is one of the hardest natural stones you can buy. But it can still stain, and plenty of stones sold as quartzite are softer than they sound.
The honest answer
If your stone is a true quartzite, it will not etch. The reason to film it is staining, and peace of mind.
Quartzite forms when sandstone is heated and compressed. The result is very hard and does not react to kitchen acids. It can still be porous, so oil, wine and turmeric can darken it.
Quartzite at a glance
Typical figures. Natural stone varies from slab to slab.
| Stone type | Metamorphic (from sandstone) |
|---|---|
| Main mineral | Quartz |
| Where it comes from | Mostly Brazil |
| Hardness | About 7 on the Mohs scale |
| Porosity | Varies from low to moderate |
| Etches with acid | No, if it is true quartzite |
| Typical finishes | Polished, honed or leathered |
| Best film finish | Matched to the slab |
Why owners film it
See it work
The same kind of everyday spills your quartzite will meet, on a protected benchtop. Everything stays on the surface and wipes away.
Filmed on our earlier film. The film we install today carries a 13-year warranty and a 250°C rating.
Popular quartzites
Quartzite is formed when sandstone is heated and compressed until the quartz grains fuse. The result is harder than glass and very resistant to scratching and acid. Taj Mahal, Mont Blanc, Fusion and Cristallo are names you will often see.
The weak point is porosity. Some quartzites have tiny gaps between the fused grains that can take in oil, wine or coloured spices, particularly lighter slabs. Those stains can be stubborn.
The other risk is mislabelling. Stone sold as quartzite is sometimes dolomite or even marble, which will etch. If you are not certain, we can check.
Care
and a mild cleaner.
you chose not to film.
The film is not a cutting surface.
above 250°C.
How it works
A simple sign is whether it etches: true quartzite will not dull under lemon juice. We can check at the assessment.
No. Quartz benchtops are engineered from crushed quartz and resin. Quartzite is a natural stone. This page is about natural quartzite.
It is near-invisible. Satin or gloss is matched to the slab’s existing finish.
Unprotected, most quartzites benefit from sealing. Film removes the need.
We can assess it on site. A simple sign is that true quartzite will not etch.
Free estimate
Four quick answers and your details. We will respond within 24 hours with an estimate and, if needed, arrange a visit.
