Veteran Carson Willingham received military honors in 2009 and was discharged honorably with the rank of sergeant. Now a sales manager, Carson Willingham works at Cowboy Stone, where he supervises the sale of natural stone products such as quartz and quartzite.
Homeowners in the United States often use quartz and quartzite for kitchen countertops. Though their names are similar, the two are different materials.
Quartz countertops are made by combining 90 to 94 percent of ground quartz with 6 to 10 percent polymers, resins, and pigments. Because the material is engineered, many varieties are available, all of which can be made into different shapes and sizes.
Quartzite countertops are made from a non-foliated metamorphic rock with quartz and sandstone content. The rock is mined, cut into slabs, polished, and sealed for use as countertops.
Both quartz and quartzite have pros and cons. Quartz is less prone to chipping because of its flexibility, while quartzite is harder and more durable. Quartz requires little maintenance, while quartzite must be resealed periodically. Quartz, however, is not heat resistant, so hot pans will damage it.
