With high quartz composition and a high level on the hardness scale, Quartzite is mainly used for metallurgical purposes as a source of silica but has been introduced into architectural home designs and decorative artworks due to its unique luster.
The main uses of quartzite in homes and commercial buildings are for decorative purposes. As the strain regimen of some quartzite formations offers unique and natural-looking patterns, quartzite is generally used for floor tiles, roof tiles, staircases, and kitchen countertops. The stone looks similar to raw marble but is harder and does not corrode when in contact with acid.
Benefits of Quartzite
Appearance
Quartzite boasts a unique sugar-frosted appearance with a glossy sparkle. can have a light beige to gray shade depending on the presence of accessory minerals formed within the rock. The determining appearance of quartzite is the formation of sugar crystals surrounding the rock, and the rough, sandpaper-like texture of the stone surface.
Other quartzite colors include rust, green, yellow, and pink. The colors are determined by the different minerals present during the formation of the stone, which may include minerals like chlorite, phengite, and other natural formations.
Streaks of crystals, which may or may not necessarily be quartz, can appear as layers in the stone, forming strain regimes that look decorative and offer various patterns for use in home tiles and designs.
Durability
Compared to marble, quartzite is much stronger and more durable due to its high level of quartz, with quartzite having around 80% quartz composition by volume. These quartz crystals are tightly packed into the quartzite to the point where breaking the stone open would crack the individual crystals open as well, instead of the stone breaking around the particles.
In modern-day architecture and interior design, this durability means that quartzite is low maintenance and can withstand most weather conditions. Quartzite is also water-resistant thanks to its low porosity, as well as heat-resistant and chemical-resistant.
How to Clean Quartzite Floors and Surfaces
Regular Cleaning
Because of the many properties that it features, it’s relatively easy to clean and maintain quartzite floors and surfaces. Here’s how to clean quartzite surfaces!
Step 1: Prepare Cleaner
You can make a simple and easy cleaning solution by adding some warm water in a bucket or bowl and adding a few drops of mild dishwashing detergent. This will leave you with some soapy water that can help you give your quartzite a much needed regular cleaning.
Step 2: Begin Wiping
Dip a microfiber cloth or soft cloth into your cleaning solution and squeeze out any excess liquid. Use the dampened cloth to wipe over the entire quartzite surface until you’ve covered the whole thing with gentle circular motions.
Step 3: Rinse and Dry
When the entire area has been cleaned and wiped, get another clean cloth and dampen this with a bit of water before wiping it over the entire surface one more time, getting rid of any remaining soap. To end, get a final dry cloth or paper towel to wipe everything dry.
Stain and Spill Removal
Quartzite may be fairly resistant against stains and spills, but it’s still a good habit to deal with these as soon as they happen. Here’s how!
Step 1: Prepare the Area
When cleaning away stains and spills, it’s important to take immediate action and address the mess as soon as possible. Use a clean cloth to blot and remove as much of the liquid and residue as you can before proceeding.
Step 2: Prepare Cleaner
You can make a quick and easy stain remover by getting some baking soda and adding a bit of water to it until you’re left with a thick paste.
Step 3: Begin Cleaning
With a plastic spatula or something similar, use this to spread a thick layer of the paste over the stained area evenly. When the entire stain is no longer visible, cover the whole thing with plastic wrap, taping the corners down if needed before leaving the paste to work its magic for around 24 to 48 hours.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry
When the paste has completely dried and hardened, use a plastic knife to gently scrape the pieces away before getting a dampened cloth and wiping down the area. The stain should be completely gone, but feel free to repeat this a few times until it’s completely lifted.
Other Cleaning Tips
Avoid Harsh Cleaners and Chemicals
As durable and resilient as quartzite is, it’s still better to keep it away from any commercial cleaning product formulated with strong chemicals as this may cause the stone to corrode and discolor, which isn’t something you want.
Avoid Abrasive Cleaners and Cleaning Tools
If you want your quartzite to continue looking its best, then you should never use anything rough or abrasive on it. This includes scouring pads, abrasive cleaners, or other natural stones. You don’t want to take the risk and be left with scratches and marks.
Leave it to the Professionals and Call Luce
If you want to keep your quartzite in peak condition, then it might be best to let the professionals handle the cleaning for you. Luce’s professional cleaners have years of experience and training to expertly handle and clean your quartzite floors and surfaces so that you no longer have to worry about it.
Book your appointment today!
