When it comes to countertops, Dekton and quartzite are two of the most popular options on the market today. Both offer durability, visual appeal, and easy maintenance.
But how do they really compare?
Let’s take a detailed look at the pros, cons, costs, and key differences between Dekton and quartzite countertops.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Dekton | Quartzite |
| Composition | Pigments, glass, porcelain, quartz | Natural stone |
| Durability | Exceptionally durable and scratch resistant | Durable but can scratch |
| Heat Resistance | Highly heat resistant | Moderate heat resistance |
| Staining | Very stain resistant | Prone to staining |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance | Moderate maintenance |
In-depth Comparison of Dekton And Quartzite
Composition
- Dekton: Engineered stone made from quartz, glass, porcelain, and binding pigments
- Quartzite: 100% natural metamorphic rock
One of the biggest differences between the two is Dekton’s engineered composition versus quartzite’s purely natural stone makeup.
Appearance
- Dekton: Available in a wide range of colors and patterns from stone looks to solid colors
- Quartzite: Limited to natural earth tone colors in stone-like patterns
Dekton offers greater customization of colors and styles. Quartzite’s appearance is restricted to the natural color variations of the stone.
Durability
- Dekton: Exceptionally durable and resistant to scratches, chips, cracks, and heat
- Quartzite: Durable but still prone to occasional chips, cracks, and scratches
Dekton’s ultra-compact manufacturing makes it near-indestructible while quartzite can be damaged from impact over time.
Heat Tolerance
- Dekton: Completely resistant to heat up to 4000F. Hot cookware will not damage the surface.
- Quartzite: Moderately heat tolerant but sudden, extreme heat may cause cracking.
Dekton offers superior heat resistance compared to quartzite.
Stain Resistance
- Dekton: Non-porous so very resistant to staining from spills, oils, etc.
- Quartzite: Semi-porous so more prone to staining, needs periodic resealing
Quartzite requires more maintenance to prevent staining and etching of the surface. Dekton repels stains easily.
Maintenance Needs
- Dekton: Needs virtually no maintenance beyond occasional cleaning
- Quartzite: Requires periodic sealing and more care to prevent stains
The ultra-low porosity of Dekton means little ongoing maintenance is needed. Quartzite requires sealing every 1-2 years.
Pricing
- Dekton: $80-$100 per square foot installed
- Quartzite: $70-$100 per square foot installed
Dekton sits at the higher end of the price spectrum as an engineered luxury stone. But prices overlap for mid-range quartzite.
Outdoor Use
- Dekton: Can be used outdoors thanks to color stability and weather resistance
- Quartzite: Not recommended for outdoor use due to lower durability
Dekton opens up more design possibilities for outdoor kitchens and surfaces.
Also Read: Differences Between Caesarstone And Quartzite Countertops.
Cost Comparison: Dekton Vs. Quartzite Countertops
One of the most important factors for most homeowners is cost.
Let’s break down what you can expect to budget for Dekton versus quartzite.
As a premium engineered stone, Dekton countertops range from $80 – $100 per square foot installed.
This puts it on par with the highest grades of granite and above most marble and quartz options.
Quartzite countertops are typically priced between $70 – $100 per square foot installed.
Lower grade quartzite can be had for $50 – $70 per square foot, overlapping with the lowest Dekton offerings. High-end designer quartzite grades will match Dekton.
Below is a pricing chart for approximate quartzite and Dekton costs:
| Material | Price Range Per Square Foot Installed |
| Dekton | $80 – $100 |
| Lower-End Quartzite | $50 – $70 |
| Mid-Range Quartzite | $70 – $90 |
| High-End Quartzite | $90 – $100+ |
Keep in mind prices vary based on your supplier, slab thickness, edge profiles, and other customizations. Get quotes from 3-5 fabricators to find the best deal.
While Dekton comes at a premium, its durability and longevity provide great value for years and even decades after installation.
Making The Choice: Dekton Vs. Quartzite
Now that we’ve compared the two materials across a range of factors, how do you choose between Dekton and quartzite for your next kitchen or bath upgrade?
Here are a few key questions to consider when weighing your options:
What’s your budget?
Dekton is usually priced a bit higher than mid-range quartzite. But lower grade quartzite can have a similar price per square foot as Dekton.
What color and style do you want?
Dekton comes in far more color variations if you want something bold and unique. Quartzite offers elegant earth tones but less customization.
Do you want minimal maintenance?
Dekton is practically maintenance-free while quartzite requires more frequent sealing. Dekton’s ultra-low porosity gives it a big advantage here.
What finish do you prefer?
Dekton comes in polished, textured, and ultra-textured matte finishes. Quartzite has a consistent soft glossy or honed finish.
Will the space get heavy use?
Dekton’s unparalleled durability makes it ideal for busy kitchens prone to accidents, scratches, and heavy usage every day.
Do you plan to use it outdoors?
Dekton can be used outside without issue. Quartzite should be kept indoors only.
Is heat damage a concern?
Dekton offers complete heat protection while quartzite can crack under extreme direct heat.
Also Read: Differences Between HI-MACS And Quartz Countertops.
The Pros and Cons of Dekton Countertops
Dekton Benefits
- Extremely durable against scratches, chips, cracks, and heat damage
- Resistant to stains, mildew, bacteria, and UV rays
- Can be used outdoors in any climate
- Requires virtually no maintenance
- Available in a huge variety of color and pattern options
- 25-year transferable product warranty
Potential Dekton Drawbacks
- More expensive than some natural stone and quartz options
- Engineered appearance lacks natural stone visual
- Limited number of suppliers compared to quartz and granite
- Not able to be fabricated into intricate curved shapes
The Pros and Cons of Quartzite Countertops
Quartzite Benefits:
- Attractive natural stone patterns and earth tone colors
- Durable surface resists scratches, chips, and heat
- More affordable than premium options like marble
- Resists moisture and bacteria when properly sealed
- Easy to clean with soap and water
Potential Quartzite Drawbacks:
- Prone to staining from acidic liquids
- Etching can occur over time
- Needs to be sealed periodically to maintain water resistance
- Not as durable as engineered options like Dekton
- Limited color and pattern options
- Heat damage possible from extreme direct heat
- For indoor use only
Which Is Better For You?
So when all factors are considered, which of these two materials is right for your home improvement plans?
Here is a quick summary of what types of homeowners may favor Dekton or quartzite:
Dekton is ideal for:
- Homeowners who want a low maintenance, stain and scratch resistant surface
- Cooks who frequently place hot pots and pans on the countertop
- Clients who want a wide range of colors and patterns
- Outdoor kitchens and surfaces
- Active households prone to spills, accidents, and heavy usage
Quartzite works best for:
- Homeowners who prefer the look and feel of natural stone
- Budget conscious shoppers looking for durability on a budget
- Those without kids or pets who can damage the surface
- Home chefs who use trivets and are careful about heat damage
- Lower traffic bathrooms that won’t see heavy wear and tear
Maintaining Dekton and Quartzite Countertops
To keep your surfaces looking like new, proper maintenance is essential. Here’s what’s required for both Dekton and quartzite:
Cleaning Dekton
- Use a mild soap and warm water OR a stone-safe cleaner
- Avoid harsh chemicals and acidic cleaners
- Simple wipe downs keep it looking fresh
Caring for Quartzite
- Clean with non-abrasive soap and water
- Reseal every 1-2 years with a stone sealer
- Immediately treat spills to avoid stains
- Avoid letting moisture sit on surface
Dekton requires almost zero maintenance thanks to the non-porous composition. Quartzite needs more frequent sealing and stain treatment to maintain its integrity.
Popular Design Styles and Colors
Dekton and quartzite both come in a range of colors and patterns to suit any design aesthetic. Here are some of the most popular looks:
Trendy Dekton Styles
- Industrial: Concrete, slate, and oxidized metal looks
- Monochromatic: Bold and vibrant solid colors
- Minimalist: Solid whites, blacks, and grays
- Wood-look: Realistic matte woodgrain patterns
- Marble-look: Elegant whites, grays, golds, and blues
Timeless Quartzite Finishes
- Whites: Crisp, bright white backgrounds
- Beiges: Warm, welcoming tan and brown tones
- Grays: Cool and modern light to dark grays
- Elegant: Marble-mimicking patterns in gold, gray, and white
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Still deciding between Dekton and quartzite? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Dekton often comes in slightly more expensive than quartzite, by about $5-15 per square foot on average. However, the ultra-low maintenance requirements of Dekton mean fewer replacements and resealing needs down the road. So the higher initial investment can pay off over time.
Dekton does not have many drawbacks due to its superior performance characteristics. However, the limited color and pattern options compared to natural stones may be viewed as a downside for homeowners who prefer natural stone aesthetics. The manufactured appearance may not appeal to some.
Dekton is better than quartz in terms of scratch resistance, stain resistance, and heat tolerance. Quartz countertops are also engineered like Dekton, but quartz still has some porosity concerns while Dekton is non-porous. Dekton requires less sealing and maintenance overall compared to quartz.
No, Dekton is highly stain-resistant and does not stain easily from spills, oils, or liquids. The non-porous surface prevents stains from penetrating the material even without sealing. Dekton requires very little maintenance overall.
The Bottom Line
While quartzite offers natural, timeless beauty, Dekton ultimately wins out in nearly every performance category from durability to heat resistance to maintenance. For those set on natural stone aesthetics, quartzite can make an excellent choice within reason.
But Dekton simply outperforms while offering an incredibly wide scope of colors and patterns.
For most homeowners, investing a bit more in ultra-durable Dekton is worth it to enjoy flawless, maintenance-free countertops for decades to come. Of course, your specific needs should always dictate your choice. Take time to thoroughly assess each material’s traits before deciding.
We hope this comprehensive comparison of quartzite and Dekton countertops helps provide clarity and confidence as you take on your next kitchen or bath remodel. Visit a slab yard to view each material in person as you make this important design decision.