| SPECIFICATIONS | |
|---|---|
| SKU | OSGRQUATIL901621 |
| Material | Quartzite |
| Size | 12x12 |
| Thickness | 3/8” |
| Shape | Square |
| Color | Dark Grey |
| Finish | Gauged |
| Sold By | Box |
| Items in Box | 10 |
| Coverage | Square Feet |
| Usage Area | Wall, Floor |
| Room | Kitchen, Bathroom, Shower, Fireplace, Entryway, Laundry Room, Bar |
| Weight | 5.50 lbs/Square Foot |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is quartzite and what makes it suitable for tiling?
Quartzite is a natural metamorphic rock formed when sandstone is subjected to intense heat and pressure, fusing the quartz grains into a very hard, dense stone. It has a sparkly, crystalline quality with subtle veining and a palette ranging from whites and silvers to golds, pinks, and greens depending on the origin.
Is quartzite the same as quartz?
No, and this is a common source of confusion. Quartzite is a natural stone quarried and cut like marble or granite. Quartz (or engineered quartz) is a man-made composite material made from quartz particles bound with resin. Quartzite is entirely natural; engineered quartz is manufactured.
Where can quartzite tiles be used?
Quartzite is suitable for floors, walls, bathrooms, kitchens, feature walls, and exterior areas. Its hardness makes it particularly well suited to high-traffic floors and demanding settings where a softer natural stone like marble or limestone might not perform as well.
Can quartzite be used outdoors?
Yes. Quartzite is dense, hard-wearing, and generally frost-resistant, making it one of the better natural stone choices for outdoor use. As always, check the specific tile's frost rating and use an appropriate exterior-grade adhesive and sealer.
Does quartzite need to be sealed?
Yes, though quartzite is denser and less porous than marble, limestone, or travertine, so it absorbs less and is more forgiving. Sealing with a penetrating sealer before grouting and re-sealing periodically is still recommended to protect against staining and moisture.
Is quartzite resistant to acids and etching?
This depends on the specific quartzite. Pure quartzite with very low calcite content is largely acid-resistant and won't etch the way marble or limestone does. However, some quartzite contains calcite veining or deposits, which can be sensitive to acids. If acid resistance matters for your application, ask about the calcite content of the specific tile.
How hard is quartzite compared to other natural stones?
Quartzite is one of the hardest natural stones used in tiling, harder than marble, limestone, travertine, and slate. This makes it very resistant to scratching and surface wear, which is one of its main advantages over softer stones in high-traffic or demanding settings.
Why do quartzite tiles vary in color and veining?
Quartzite is a natural stone, so color, sparkle, and veining vary between tiles and batches depending on mineral content and origin. We recommend ordering all tiles for a project at once and dry-laying from several boxes to achieve a well-blended result.
How do I clean and maintain quartzite?
Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner and a soft mop or cloth. While quartzite is harder and more resistant than many natural stones, avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners as a general rule, particularly if your quartzite contains any calcite. Wipe spills promptly and re-seal periodically to keep the stone in good condition.
Is quartzite suitable for wet areas like bathrooms and showers?
Yes. Quartzite's density and hardness make it a practical choice for wet areas. A honed or brushed finish is recommended over polished for better slip resistance on floors and shower trays.
How much area does one box cover?
Each box covers approximately 10.0 square feet. Measure the area you need to cover and add about 10% extra for cuts and waste.
Can I order a sample before buying?
Yes — for this product you can order a swatch sample before placing a full order.
