The Average Lifespan Of Quartzite Countertops Is Seriously Impressive

You may never have heard of quartzite, but it's actually one of Martha Stewart's favorite countertop materials. Quartzite is an incredibly tough metamorphic rock, derived from sandstone, that forms naturally, often in mild earth tones like beige and gray. Quartzite has a lifespan of a whopping 50 to 100 years, and it won't stain or patina like marble does. The average lifespan of marble countertops hardly comes close to quartzite, and even granite only averages 30 to 50 years. 

Before you surf the web for "quartzite," though, make sure you know that it's not the same thing as quartz! Since quartzite forms naturally, the colors available are determined by nature over millions of years. Your common quartz countertop is "engineered stone," a manmade mix of quartz chips and resin. It's kind of like the particle board of stone, and as such, it only holds up for an average of 40 years (although some experts do recommend it). 

Even though these countertop slabs are millions of years in the making, they still require diligent cleaning and care. Any natural stone counter will need a sealant, and some experts recommend resealing your countertops as often as twice a year. The sealant will prevent damage to any kind of stone slab countertop — raw stone will absorb spills, unless cleaned immediately. Luckily, cleaning up properly sealed quartzite is no more complicated than soapy water and a clean towel, though we have some helpful tips for cleaning your stone countertops without chipping or staining them. Even if you don't keep your quartzite counters flawlessly clean, as long as you keep up the sealant, they'll still reach their 50 to 100 year potential.

With such minimal upkeep and long-term quality, you're not wrong to expect a sizable initial investment. Quartzite countertops tend to be more expensive than granite, with quartzite ranging from $60 to over $200 per square foot (that's including installation). Granite isn't much better, at an average of $40 to $200, while marble sits in the middle of the range at $40 to $150 per square foot. Keep in mind that homeowners are ditching their marble countertops left and right, and this high-brow material might not hold its value in the housing market. Quartzite, on the other hand, actually increases the value of a house, luring buyers and realtors alike with promises of longevity and beauty.