When picking a stone material for your home, sintered stone and marble are two popular choices. However, there are certain things to keep in mind before you make your decision. Whether you are going for a timeless look with marble, or a contemporary style with sintered stone, here is what you need to know before making your purchase.
View Details
Sintered Stone
What is sintered stone?
Sintered stone is a custom-made material that consists of natural minerals like quartz and feldspar, pigments, and binders. It is eco-friendly because it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals such as adhesives, resin, or other bonding agents, and doesn’t emit harmful gases during production. It’s also a recyclable and renewable material.
How is it made?
To create sintered stone materials, raw minerals are extracted from the ground and transported to a manufacturing plant where they undergo various stages of processing to replicate hundreds of years of metamorphic change. The key steps involve mixing the raw materials together until they form a uniform mixture, pressing the mixture into a slab, removing moisture through drying, sintering the mixture, and finally cooling it down. Sintering is a process that involves the fusion of particles using high temperatures and pressure, resulting in a strong and long-lasting stone slab. It is extremely hard with a score of 7 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness.
Scratch- resistant
Its hardness and durability are why it is highly scratch-resistant, making it an excellent choice not only for your bathroom but for kitchen countertops and flooring as well. It can even be used in outdoor applications, as it is weather-proof and water-proof. It also does not get discoloured under UV radiation.
Stain- resistant
Sintered stone countertops are excellent in both the bathroom and the kitchen. It’s stain-resistant, so you can dye your hair at home and not have to worry about discolouring your surface with hair dye – though you have to be careful with the bleach. It’s also great in the kitchen where there are bound to be spills from various liquids and foods that would stain surfaces.
Heat- resistant
On bathroom countertops, you can place heating tools such as hair straighteners or curlers directly on your countertops without leaving a mark. The same goes for kitchen countertops – you can place a hot pan directly on the surface. Just be careful not to immediately place something cold in the same spot, as the sudden temperature change may cause cracking.
Nonporous and low-maintenance
Sintered stone countertops are hygienic because it is a non-porous material and therefore has no pores for bacteria to grow in. You can spill as much of your skincare products and soap on your bathroom countertop or food and drinks on your kitchen countertop without worry. Sintered stone is a low-maintenance countertop material that does not need to be sealed and routinely resealed. The surface can be cleaned with a soft cloth or sponge, warm water, and a pH-neutral cleaner.
Customised design
Sintered stone offers a wide range of design options as its texture, colour, and pattern can be customized according to your preferences. However, the design does not go throughout the thickness of the slab, because it is printed on the face of the slab. Meaning, the ends and edges do not look the same as the rest of the surface. The sintered stone’s design can be customised to have random veining to mimic the appearance of marble, granite, other stone materials, and even wood. Or it can be customised to have a uniform appearance, which helps minimise the appearance of seams on the surface. However, very fine details will be lost during the sintering process. What would not disappear is its texture, which makes the material good for flooring because of its anti-slip properties.
Marble
What is Marble?
Marble has been used in sculptures and architecture for over years and adds a luxurious touch to the surrounding environment. In the world of art, it is one of the most popular choices for sculptors because of its durability and translucency. It’s easy to work with because it’s a soft stone, and it can be manipulated into the shape the sculptor wants. The finished product then gradually transforms into a hard and dense material over time. Marble has a low refractory index due to the presence of calcites, allowing light to penetrate the stone, similar to how light interacts with human skin. This gives marble sculptures a “waxy” appearance, making them more lifelike. This is why marble is known for its natural beauty and timeless appearance which makes it synonymous with elegance and opulence.
How is it made?
Marble is a stone material formed through a natural process in which extreme heat causes minerals in limestone rock to grow and fuse together. The marble is quarried, cut into a solid slab, and then polished to create the finished product. It is a soft stone with a score of 3-4 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. It comes in a wide variety of colours, though the purest marble is white. It’s tiering and price depends on the veining and colour of the marble.
Porous
Like all natural stones, marble is a porous material, so it is important to get a quality sealant to protect your surface from liquids getting into the pores and becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. The sealant also protects your surface from acidic household liquids such as lemon juice and vinegar, which will dissolve the calcium carbonate that’s found in marble. To clean the marble surface, use a soft cloth or sponge, warm water, and regular dish soup. Then use a second clean cloth to dry.
Heat-resistant and keeps things cool
In terms of heat resistance, Marble can take temperatures up to around 176 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). However, it is strongly advised not to apply intense heat directly on this stone surface, as it may cause discolouration, chips, or cracks in the sealant. Marble itself is a poor conductor of heat, so it always feels cool to the touch. Bakers use these marble surfaces to keep the butter in the dough cool, which is important to get a flaky baked good. Marble also keeps the room cool, making it a great choice for your bathroom countertops if you live in a hot country. It is not recommended to use marble flooring in your bathroom without a sealant because of how damp and wet the environment is. However, if you are planning to have marble flooring for the rest of your home, do take note that it is a slippery surface.
Not stain- and scratch-resistant
Unfortunately, marble is not the best material when it comes to stain resistance and scratch resistance. Marble is known as a “living finish” because time and wear cause it to change by getting slightly darker and having more etchings, but some people like it because it “gives the marble personality.” You could have marble as your kitchen countertop material, but it would require a lot of maintenance and care. It might be easier to have a large board that’s made of marble just for baking – like a chopping board, but do not use it as such, because knives will surely damage the marble and sealant with chips and cracks.
Weighing Your Options
While both sintered stone and marble are ideal choices, it depends on what you are looking for. Would you go for the versatility of the artificial stone material or the elegant appearance of natural stone material? Take into account the key differences between the two materials before you make your choice.
From a logical point of view, sintered stone is the way to go. It is the harder material and unlike marble is scratch-resistant and stain-resistant. It is also cheaper and easier to install and maintain than marble. Due to advanced technology, sintered stone slabs can even be customised to look like marble, although they cannot match the exquisite beauty of marble exactly. Furthermore, this is the more eco-friendly option as sintered stone is recyclable and is composed of natural minerals and binders. There are no harmful chemicals or resin involved. It also does not emit carbons during its manufacturing process. Marble can be ground up and used in concrete, so it is recyclable too. But it is not as eco-friendly because it’s a natural stone that has to be mined out of the earth. In other words, it’s a finite, non-renewable resource.
When it comes to aesthetics, marble is the clear winner. The unique veining patterns and colour variations of natural marble make it the perfect choice for luxury countertops, flooring, and other surfaces in the home. Its history and cooling effect also give it an advantage. Marble also has a timeless appeal that will never go out of style. While the colour will darken and more etchings will appear on your surface as time passes, some people prefer this because of its organic change.
Understanding Sintered Stone
Sintered stone is a sophisticated material engineered through an intricate process that transforms natural raw materials into a robust surface. This substance is manufactured by subjecting a mixture of minerals, including clays, feldspar, and quartz, to extreme heat and intense pressure. This synthesis emulates geological processes that occur over millennia, allowing sintered stone to exhibit remarkable durability and versatility.
Estrella contains other products and information you need, so please check it out.
One of the most compelling characteristics of sintered stone is its outstanding resistance to heat. This feature makes it an ideal surface for kitchen countertops and other areas that experience high temperatures, such as cooking spaces. Unlike traditional stone, which can crack and warp under heat stress, sintered stone maintains its structural integrity, making it suitable for a variety of applications.
In addition to heat resistance, sintered stone is also known for its formidable resistance to stains and scratches. The non-porous nature of the material means that spills do not penetrate the surface, allowing for easy cleanup and maintenance. This property is particularly advantageous in environments such as kitchens and bathrooms, where hygienic conditions are a priority. Furthermore, the surface is less susceptible to scratches and abrasions, which reinforces its functionality in high-traffic areas.
Moreover, sintered stone demonstrates excellent endurance against UV light, ensuring that colors remain vibrant over time without fading. This aspect is crucial for outdoor applications where prolonged sun exposure is common. The combination of these unique properties positions sintered stone as a favored choice for architects and designers looking for materials that offer both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits.
Why Choose Sintered Stone?
Sintered stone has gained prominence in the architectural and design sectors due to its myriad advantages, making it an appealing option for a diverse range of applications. One of the foremost benefits of sintered stone is its remarkable durability. This composite material is engineered to withstand extreme conditions, ensuring that it remains unscathed by the rigors of daily use. Unlike traditional materials such as granite or quartz, sintered stone exhibits superior resistance to scratches, stains, and heat, contributing to a longer lifespan and reducing the need for replacements.
In addition to its durability, sintered stone is renowned for its aesthetic appeal. Available in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and finishes, it allows designers and homeowners to achieve tailored looks for their spaces. The ability to mimic natural materials while offering uniformity in design makes sintered stone an attractive choice. This versatility has made it suitable for various applications, from countertops and flooring to wall cladding and other architectural features.
Maintenance is another critical factor that enhances the appeal of sintered stone. Its non-porous surface means that it does not harbor bacteria or accumulate grime, simplifying the cleaning process. A simple wipe-down with mild soap and water is often sufficient to maintain its pristine condition. This ease of maintenance is a stark contrast to traditional surfaces that may require sealing or special cleaning products.
Sustainability is also a significant consideration when choosing sintered stone. The production process involves natural materials, and manufacturers often employ eco-friendly practices that minimize waste. This commitment to environmental responsibility makes sintered stone a socially-conscious choice that aligns with the values of modern consumers seeking sustainable building materials.
Applications of Sintered Stone
Sintered stone has emerged as a versatile material, finding applications across various sectors, notably in residential and commercial environments. Its impressive attributes make it a sought-after choice for an array of applications, each catering to specific needs and preferences. One of the most popular uses of sintered stone is in kitchen countertops. Renowned for their durability and resistance to stains and scratches, sintered stone surfaces stand up well against the demands of daily cooking and meal preparations, ensuring longevity and aesthetic appeal.
In bathroom settings, sintered stone is increasingly being integrated into vanity tops, shower walls, and bathtubs. The material’s water-resistant properties make it an ideal choice for these areas, as it minimizes the risk of moisture damage. Moreover, its non-porous surface enhances hygiene by reducing bacterial growth, thereby ensuring a safer environment for users. Similarly, sintered stone has transformed flooring applications; its robustness provides resilience to heavy foot traffic and various weather conditions, making it suitable for both interior and exterior spaces.
Wall cladding is another prominent application of sintered stone. It offers an elegant and modern aesthetic that can enhance the visual appeal of both residential and commercial properties. Available in a diverse range of colors and textures, it allows for creative design flexibility, making it an ideal choice for architects and designers. Furthermore, sintered stone is increasingly favored for outdoor landscaping projects, such as patios, outdoor kitchens, and pool surrounds, where its ability to withstand harsh environmental elements is particularly beneficial.
Overall, the versatility of sintered stone in various applications—ranging from countertops and vanities to flooring and wall cladding—underscores its significance in enhancing both functionality and style in diverse settings.
Sintered Stone vs. Other Materials: A Comparison
When considering various materials for countertops, flooring, and surface applications, it's crucial to evaluate the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of each option. Sintered stone has emerged as a strong contender against traditional materials such as granite, quartz, and porcelain tiles. Each of these materials presents unique benefits and drawbacks, making the selection process dependent on specific project requirements.
Granite, renowned for its natural beauty and durability, is a popular choice among homeowners. However, it requires regular sealing to maintain its resistance to stains and liquids. Its cost often reflects this need for maintenance. In contrast, quartz, an engineered stone, is non-porous and does not require sealing. While it offers remarkable durability and a vast array of design options, quartz may be susceptible to heat damage, limiting its application in certain environments.
Porcelain tiles, known for their versatility and weather resistance, can serve both indoor and outdoor spaces effectively. They are, however, prone to chipping and cracking, especially if subjected to heavy impacts. Additionally, the installation process can be labor-intensive, potentially increasing the overall project cost.
Sintered stone, on the other hand, boasts a unique manufacturing process that utilizes high temperatures and pressures to create an extremely durable product. This makes sintered stone highly resistant to scratching, staining, and heat, often outperforming granite and quartz in these areas. Furthermore, its non-porous nature means that it does not require any sealing, making maintenance minimal and hassle-free.
In terms of aesthetic versatility, sintered stone offers a wide range of colors and patterns that can mimic natural materials, making it an attractive choice for various design schemes. While the initial investment in sintered stone may be higher than other materials, its longevity and low maintenance costs often result in significant savings over time. Builders and homeowners should carefully assess these factors to make an informed decision on the best material for their projects.
Want more information on Marble Sintered Stone? Feel free to contact us.
Comments
Please Join Us to post.
0