Whats the Difference Between Natural Stone & Engineered Stone?
With advancements in technology, engineered stone is becoming more and more common. Many of our customers ask what exactly are the differences between Natural Stone and Engineered Stone benchtops? Firstly, both of these options offer an array of benefits that are worth weighing up when considering which type of stone to use for your kitchen. The qualities of Natural and Engineered Stone are explored in depth below, to assist you with determining which kind of stone will best satisfy your functional and aesthetic requirements.
Natural Stone Benchtops
Natural Stone, as the name suggests, is a naturally formed stone that has been used as a sturdy and beautiful surface for hundreds of years. This stone is quarried from the earth with no unnecessary exposure to harmful chemicals in the home or to the environment during production and disposal processes. Natural Stone is a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications.
Natural Stone is an aesthetically pleasing choice, as it provides a reflects the natural environment. It is constructed by nature, highly resilient and durable under general use, and therefore can often last decades with very little maintenance. Natural Stone is the perfect choice for alfresco or outdoor kitchen benchtops, as it holds heat resistant qualities. Similarly, Natural Stones offer UV resistance which minimises the risk of these benchtops breaking down over time due to prolonged sun exposure.
Visually, a significant benefit of Natural Stone is the large variety of colours, patterns, styles and types available, which commonly exceeds that of engineered benchtops. Due to its unique qualities, Natural Stone allows for unique centrepieces in your kitchen or bathrooms, that are sure to make a big impression on your guests, with no two pieces exactly alike.
Made in Stone is one of Australia’s leading manufacturers of Natural Stone products. We offer innovative design elements such as lit Onyx New York Marble which creates a speciality surface that is nothing short of breathtaking.
Find high-quality luxury materials for your kitchen from Made In Stone, including:
- Marble Benchtops
- Granite Benchtops
- Onyx Benchtops
- Travertine Benchtops
Engineered Stone Benchtops
While Natural Stone has been the go-to for gorgeous benchtops, modern technology has improved upon the resistance and durability of man-made stone alternatives, whilst still offering stunning natural beauty. Engineered Stone is a scientifically developed stone which is a minimum of 93% natural forming quartz.
Engineered Stone surfaces are completely non-porous because they are manufactured with quartz, one of the hardest minerals on earth. Engineered Stone surfaces have superior durability when compared to Natural Stone tops, whose resistance against scratches and chips is high but cannot be guaranteed. Engineered Stone surfaces are certified using the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive standards. Some of these include CSIRO certification for resistance to extreme heat, chemicals and stains, as well as the National Sanitation Foundation’s food safety certification.
Engineered Stone is quality controlled to a specific recipe, offering identical products within each batch. This allows for consistency in style and colour, even if you require additional or replacement stone many years later. Natural Stone, on the other hand, displays large variances between each product, making matching surfaces difficult.
Engineered Stone is particularly ideal stone option bathrooms, as it has low moisture absorption, making it perfect for indoor wet areas. From kitchen benchtops, splashbacks to bathroom vanities, Engineered Stone is an excellent choice for both residential and commercial interiors.
Choosing your Next Kitchen Benchtop Sydney
When deciding between Natural or Engineered Stone for your kitchen benchtops or bathroom vanities, do not choose based purely on appearance – but also on how you will be using the surface. As we use these spaces every day, it is essential to ask yourself and your family the following crucial question: Which stone will equally suit the practical needs of my family whilst seamlessly improving the overall style?
If you are looking for high-end affordable natural or engineered stone, contact Made in Stone today on (02) 9756 4599 or get a FREE quote online. With over 25 years of industry experience, you know you will only get the highest quality Engineered and Natural Stone from Made in Stone. As a local Sydney based supplier, we cater to any customer requirement, whether you need a stone installation for your kitchen benchtop, bathroom vanity, bar, outdoor barbecue area, pavers, fireplace or columns. Our team are available to assist you, speak to the stone experts today!