Engineered Stone
Engineered stone is a composite of material made of crushed stone bound together by an adhesive. Unlike natural stone benchtops which are cut from pure granite or marble, engineered stone counters are made from quartz crystals. The crystals are tightly compacted and held together with a polymer resin.
Features:
- Engineered quartz measures six to seven on the measure of hardness scale (Mohs); at least two times more resistant to scratching than a similar marble surface.
- The tightly compacted quartz ensures the surface remains entirely non-porous, therefore there is no resealing required.
- Although still not entirely resistant to acidic substances, the denser nature of engineered quartz slows the rate of damage significantly.
- Available in a large variety of colours and designs, customisable to fit your kitchen design.
- Highly resistant to scratches, chips and stains.
- Less resistant to heat than other stone surfaces; can crack or chip if exposed to high heat for too long.
- Not suitable for outdoor use.
Marble
Marble is formed naturally by the re-crystallisation of limestone under intense geological pressure. The variety of minerals during composition are what give the stone its unique patterns, colours and textures. Marble slabs are cut in their natural state, then shaped and polished/sealed before installing.
Features:
- Measures three to four on the measure of hardness scale (Mohs).
- By nature, it is susceptible to variations in colour; no two benchtops are the same.
- Marble is quite porous and requires resealing periodically; six months is the suggested period between resealing.
- Acidic substances react with the calcite found in marble and can cause ‘etching’; leaving the surface looking unpolished and rough.
- Not suitable for outdoor use.
Granite
Granite is an igneous rock formed naturally beneath the Earth’s surface by the cooling of magma. It’s unique swirl patterns are formed as the granite folds over when the magma is cooling. The rock is cut in its natural state and is then polished for use in homes; most commonly used for kitchen benchtops.
Features:
- Measures six to seven on the measure of hardness scale (Mohs).
- Stone is formed naturally, therefore every benchtop has a unique colour and design.
- Highly resistant to scratches and surface damage.
- Granite still requires resealing periodically, although the period suggested between reseals is three to five years.
- Very sanitary because its surface is easy to keep clean and bacteria free.
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
For additional information see Taking care of your engineered stone bench-top.