What are Engineered Stone Countertops?
Considering a countertop upgrade? Engineered stone countertops are a popular choice for homeowners seeking a blend of style, durability, and functionality. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about engineered stone countertops, from their composition and types to their advantages, comparisons with other materials, and answers to frequently asked questions.
If you are not sure about which type of countertop is right for your situation, we can help. The countertop specialists at Natural Stone City can answer all your questions and help you select and install the perfect countertop for your space. Contact us today to get started.
Engineered Stone Countertops
1. Overview of Engineered Stone Countertops
*Countertop by MSI Surfaces
Engineered stone is made from crushed stone mixed with resins, pigments, and other binders.
Engineered stone countertops, also known as man-made stone countertops, are a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms due to their durability, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance. But what exactly are they?
What is Engineered Stone?
Engineered stone is a composite material made from crushed stone, usually quartz, mixed with resins, pigments, and other binders. The mixture is then formed into slabs and cured under heat and pressure, creating a solid and durable countertop surface. Engineered stone contains a high percentage of crushed stone, often 90% or more, which is why it so closely resembles natural stone.
How is Engineered Stone Made?
The manufacturing process for engineered stone involves several steps:
Crushing and grinding: Natural stone, such as quartz, is crushed into small chips or dust.
Mixing: The crushed stone is combined with resins, pigments, and other additives to create a uniform mixture.
Forming: The mixture is poured into moulds and pressed under high pressure to create slabs.
Curing: The slabs are cured under heat and pressure to solidify the material.
Finishing: The finished slabs are polished, honed, or textured to achieve the desired look.
The result is a beautifully consistent and highly durable slab that is perfect for countertops.
Types of Engineered Stone
*Countertop by Caesarstone
Quartz is the most popular type of engineered stone for countertops.
Quartz is the most common type of engineered stone, but other materials like granite, soapstone, and recycled materials can also be used. Here are some of the most popular types:
Quartz: Quartz is the most popular type of engineered stone due to its durability, stain resistance, and a wide variety of colours and patterns.
Granite: Engineered granite offers the look of natural granite with the benefits of engineered stone, such as easier maintenance and no need for sealing.
Soapstone: Engineered soapstone provides the classic look and feel of natural soapstone with improved durability and stain resistance.
Recycled materials: Some engineered stone options incorporate recycled materials like glass or concrete, offering an eco-friendly alternative.
With its diverse range of styles, functionality, and ease of care, engineered stone is a compelling choice for modern kitchens and bathrooms.
2. Engineered Stone Countertops Design Gallery
Here are some beautiful designs that you can achieve with an engineered stone countertop in your kitchen or bathroom.
3. Advantages of Engineered Stone Countertops
Engineered stone countertops offer a multitude of advantages over other countertop materials, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking both style and functionality. Here are some of the key benefits:
Durability:
Engineered stone is incredibly strong and resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
Stain Resistance:
Unlike natural stone, which can be prone to staining, engineered stone is non-porous and highly resistant to stains from common household items like coffee, wine, and juice. This eliminates the need for regular sealing, simplifying maintenance.
Easy Maintenance:
*Countertop by LX Hausys
Engineered stone is very easy to clean.
Engineered stone requires minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning with warm water and mild soap is sufficient to keep it looking its best.
Wide Variety of Styles:
Engineered stone comes in a vast array of colours, patterns, and finishes, allowing you to achieve the exact aesthetic you desire for your kitchen or bathroom. You can find options that mimic the look of natural stone like granite or marble, or choose from a wider range of colours and patterns not readily available in nature.
Antimicrobial Properties:
Engineered stone surfaces are antimicrobial. This means that they are naturally resistant to the growth of bacteria and mould, making them a hygienic choice for food preparation areas.
Overall, engineered stone countertops offer a combination of durability, aesthetics, and ease of maintenance that makes them a valuable addition to any home.
4. Engineered Stone Countertops vs Other Materials
While engineered stone offers numerous advantages, it's important to compare it with other popular countertop materials to determine the best fit for your needs and budget. Here's a comparison of engineered stone against some common alternatives:
Countertop Materials Comparison Chart
| Material | Durability | Stain Resistance | Maintenance | Heat Resistance | Variety | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineered Stone | High | High | Low | Moderate | High | Moderate-high |
| Granite | High | Moderate (requires sealing) | Moderate (requires sealing) | High | Moderate | Moderate-high |
| Quartzite | High | High | Low | Moderate | Moderate | High |
| Marble | Moderate | Low (requires sealing) | High (requires sealing and cleaning) | Low | High | High |
| Laminate | Moderate | Moderate | Low | Low | High | Low |
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the key factors to consider:
Durability:
Engineered stone, granite, and quartzite are all highly durable and resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks. Marble is slightly less durable and can be prone to etching from acidic substances. Laminate is the least durable option and can be susceptible to scratches and dents.
Stain Resistance:
Engineered stone and quartzite are non-porous and highly stain-resistant. Granite requires sealing to resist stains, while marble is very susceptible to staining and requires regular sealing and cleaning. Laminate is moderately stain-resistant.
Maintenance:
Engineered stone, laminate, and quartzite require minimal maintenance, while granite and marble require regular sealing and cleaning.
Heat Resistance:
Granite countertops are very heat resistant.
Granite and quartzite are heat resistant, while marble is not and can be susceptible to damage from hot pots and pans. Laminate is also not heat resistant. Engineered stone can tolerate some heat, however, it is best to use a trivet when placing hot pans, etc. on these surfaces.
Variety:
Engineered stone offers the widest variety of colours and patterns, followed by granite and marble. Quartzite has a moderate variety, while laminate offers a wide variety but with a more limited look compared to natural stone options.
Cost:
Engineered stone and granite are typically priced similarly, while quartzite and marble can be more expensive. Laminate is the most affordable option.
Ultimately, the best countertop material for you depends on your individual priorities and budget. If you value durability, ease of maintenance, and a wide range of design options, engineered stone is a strong contender. However, if you're drawn to the natural beauty of granite or marble and are willing to invest in more maintenance, these materials may also be suitable choices.
5. Engineered Stone Countertops FAQ
*Countertop by Lx Hausys
Here are the answers to some of the most popular frequently asked questions about engineered stone countertops:
Is Engineered Stone a Good Countertop?
Engineered stone can be a good countertop option due to its high durability, stain resistance, low maintenance needs, and a wide variety of styles. However, it's important to consider your needs and budget when making a decision.
What Are the Disadvantages of Engineered Stone?
While offering many advantages, engineered stone does have some drawbacks. It can be more expensive than some other options like laminate, and it may not have the same level of natural beauty as some natural stones like granite or marble.
Additionally, due to its manufacturing process, some people do not consider it an eco-friendly material as compared to some other natural stone options. However, engineered stone that is made from recycled materials such as glass or concrete is considered to be more eco-friendly.
Which Is Cheaper, Granite or Engineered Stone?
The cost of both materials can vary depending on factors like colour, pattern, and thickness. Generally, engineered stone and granite fall within a similar price range, although some high-end granites can be more expensive.
Is Engineered Stone the Same as Quartz?
*Countertop by Caesarstone
Engineered stone is often made from ground-up quartz and other additives.
Engineered stone is often referred to as "quartz countertops" because quartz is typically the primary mineral used in its composition. However, it's important to note that engineered stone also contains other materials like resins and pigments.
What Is the Most Durable Stone for Kitchen Countertops?
Both engineered stone and granite are highly durable and resistant to scratches, chips, and cracks. Quartzite is another very strong option. Ultimately, the "most durable" option depends on specific use and potential impact.
How Do You Clean Engineered Stone Countertops?
Cleaning engineered stone countertops is simple. Use warm water and mild soap, and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. You can also use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth for routine cleaning.
For the Best Selection of Engineered Stone Countertops, Come to Natural Stone City
If you are searching for the perfect engineered stone countertop, come to Natural Stone City. We have the largest selection of Granite, Marble, and Quartz in Southern Ontario, with over 1,000 slabs of different colour options.
You can choose from standard colours to super exotic options, shipped directly from Italy, Brazil and around the world. We carefully select each one, keeping the satisfaction of our customers in mind.
When you buy from Natural Stone City you’ll get:
Installations in as little as 1 week
Any colour you want and more
Help from our knowledgeable and friendly staff who are experienced stone countertop specialists
Contact us today and we will help you choose the perfect countertop for your home.
What Our Customers Are Saying…
“Time and time again We come back to your company for sooooo many reasons. Our family and Friends can't thank you enough for your services. Not just that, from the friendly welcoming happy reception Ladies, to the warm hand off to Aura. Aura is EXTREMELY knowledgeable in all the products. From start to finish she takes each client and thoroughly goes thru the process of of each type of stone/ product, accessories, measurements, scheduling, delivering, installing. All this and did I mention yet?!!! They have the best quotes/prices.... believe me I've gotten other local quotes does not compare. Aura and her team are great and I know to trust to openly refer and recommend Natural Stone to anyone and everyone I know.
Thank you to all at Natural Stone City for your service.”
— Aurelia Mercu
