What is Engineered Stone? Pros and Cons of Quartz ...

What is Engineered Stone?

Engineered stone, widely known in the countertop industry as quartz, is a manufactured composite material made from crushed stone combined with a resin binder. It's versatile and used in various applications. For countertops, slabs are created using quartz crystals held together with this resin. Typically, this material consists of approximately 93% crushed stone and 7% resin along with pigments.

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Advantages of Engineered Stone

One of the main advantages of engineered stone is its resemblance to natural stone. However, engineered stone usually offers a more uniform color and pattern. Natural stone can exhibit significant variations due to its geological formation, while quartz's manufacturing process ensures that each slab features less variation. As a result, your choice for kitchen countertops will have a cohesive look, with many colors available through the pigmentation process.

Another noteworthy advantage is its nonporous nature. Unlike natural stone, quartz is resistant to stains because there are no tiny pores that allow liquids to seep into the surface. It also eliminates the need for sealing, which makes it a low-maintenance option for busy homeowners. The nonporous feature contributes to its antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it suitable for use in commercial spaces like restaurants and healthcare facilities.

Disadvantages of Engineered Stone

However, it is important to consider some drawbacks associated with engineered stone. One significant disadvantage is that it does not have the same heat resistance as some natural stones, such as granite or quartzite. Its composition of stone and resin means that exposure to high temperatures (like a hot pan taken directly from the stove) can compromise the surface or make it more susceptible to cracks. It is advisable to always use a hot pad or trivet to avoid damaging the surface. Caution should also be exercised with heat-producing appliances like toasters or pressure cookers.

Additionally, most manufacturers do not recommend using engineered stone outdoors, as doing so may void the warranty. The pigments used can fade when exposed to sunlight, and the resin can yellow from UV exposure. Only a couple of manufacturers, such as Caesarstone and Diresco, produce engineered stone designed for outdoor use with special resin that resists fading and yellowing.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, both natural stone and engineered stone offer excellent options for kitchen countertops. Each is popular, comes in a wide range of styles, and can stand the test of time. Selecting between the two can be challenging, so it’s beneficial to consult with a professional who can help you choose the ideal material that complements your kitchen's design and stays within your budget.

If you require assistance with your kitchen or bathroom remodeling or wish to explore different countertop options further, Innovative Stone SRQ is here to help! Contact us today for more information!

Understanding Engineered Quartz and Natural Quartzite

Engineered quartz and natural quartzite are both popular choices for a variety of applications, including countertops and backsplashes. Although their names are similar and are sometimes confusingly used interchangeably, they are fundamentally different materials. Here’s a quick comparison to help clarify their origins, compositions, and distinctions.

Natural Quartzite: A Geological Marvel

Quartzite is a 100% natural stone formed through natural geological processes over millions of years. Its most famous quarries are situated in Brazil, but it is also found in various other parts of the world, including the United States, India, and Sweden. These unique formations tell a story of the earth's history.

Engineered Quartz: A Man-Made Alternative

Despite its nomenclature, engineered quartz (often referred to as engineered stone) is not entirely natural. It is created using quartz particles combined with resin, pigments, and other substances in a controlled manufacturing environment. This process occurs in factories across the globe.

The Composition of Quartzite

Natural quartzite is composed solely of minerals—with quartz being the principal ingredient. This stone showcases stunning aesthetics, as each type reflects its distinct natural history. For those drawn to the beauty of natural materials, quartzite offers an impressive array of choices.

Engineered Quartz: Composition Insights

Engineered quartz contains around 93% mineral quartz, but it's vital to note that this measurement is based on weight, which may not accurately represent the volume. Some manufacturers, like PentalQuartz, indicate their product's quartz content is approximately 74% when measured by volume.

The Creating Process of Quartzite

The natural formation of quartzite showcases the power of geological processes, resulting in a dense, resilient stone suitable for demanding applications. It undergoes metamorphosis over millions of years, becoming one of the most durable natural options available.

Engineered Quartz Production

Most engineered quartz brands utilize the patented Breton process to manufacture slabs. This involves pouring materials into molds, applying pressure, and subjecting them to heat for an efficient curing process—resulting in a product that retains low porosity.

Application Differences: Indoor vs Outdoor

Quartzite’s durability makes it suitable for a range of applications, including outdoor settings, where it withstands harsh weather without degradation. In contrast, engineered stone is best suited for indoor environments to protect it from UV damage and yellowing due to resin exposure.

Common Misunderstandings

With the popularity of quartzite comes a risk of mislabeling. Many stones that do not meet the criteria of true quartzite may be marketed as such, resulting in misunderstanding about their properties. Similarly, engineered quartz is sometimes mistakenly perceived as maintenance-free. While durable, it is not exempt from potential scratching, staining, or heat damage.

The Importance of Sealing Natural Quartzite

Quartzite may require sealing to avoid issues due to its permeability. Working with an experienced fabricator can ensure that the stone is properly sealed during installation to prolong its life.

Recommendations for Engineered Quartz Maintenance

While engineered quartz surfaces stand up reasonably well to staining, they should still be treated with care. Users should avoid abrasive cleaning methods and protect their surfaces from excessive heat to maintain their appearance over time.

Choosing the Right Material

The decision between quartz and quartzite often hinges on personal preference and the specific requirements of each project. Regardless of the chosen material, obtaining samples and consulting with reputable retailers can greatly influence the final outcome in terms of performance and aesthetics.

For more Artificial Quartz information, please contact us for expert assistance.