Quartzite

TSSPRO SEALANT PRODUCTS FOR QUARTZITE

QUARTIZE, Quartzite is a decorative stone and may be used to cover walls, as roofing tiles, as flooring, and stairsteps. Its use for countertops in kitchens is expanding rapidly. It is often compared to granite in terms of hardness and durability.  However, don’t confuse quartz countertops with quartzite; quartzite is a totally natural material that’s quarried like granite and marble whereas quartz countertops are an engineered, synthetic material that is man-made. Each piece of quartzite has unique color variations and patterned veining. Although it is very durable, quartzite is a porous material, which means it also needs to be periodically sealed to prevent stains. Quartz countertops are non-porous and don’t ever need to be sealed.

Considerations for choosing a sealer: : The following are all factors for selecting a sealer.  The sealer descriptions below will mention which attributes they have to help in your selection; color enhancing/color change, adding a wet look, minimizing cooking area stains, salt-water erosion resistance, efflorescence resistance, preventing oil (cooking/motor) stains, preventing discoloring mold/algae, preventing deterioration/flaking, adding slip resistance, VOC compliance, general stain resistance, general protection.

Coverage, Number of Coats: Quartzite is dense.  Only one light or medium coat is required.  After application, any excess sealer should be wiped off.  Coverage will vary with the sealer selected but will vary from 350 to 500 sq ft / gallon.  

Because is very dense quartzite does not require the normal type of protection sealer, however, although dense, it will stain and should be protected from staining.  Below are sealers for stain protection.

• TSS550-Stain Safe, solvent based, penetrating, repels water, oil, powerful, premium stain resistance for long periods including red wine, strong beading, slight darkening
• TSS300-Wetlook Low Sheen, solvent based, surface film; repels water, repels water, oil, most stains, enhances colors, gives rich wet look.

You may also want to consider:

• TSS750-Algae Cure, water based, surface film; repels water, prevents most forms/colors of algae, up to 2-3 year effectiveness
• TSSG100-Anti Slip Grip, textured, polypropylene particles added to film forming sealants (TSS300) that reduce slippage especially when surfaces are wet.