Engineered stone benchtops have become increasingly popular over the last 20 years, as they are affordable. There was also media coverage concerning silica aspects found in engineered stone. Due to which the Australian Government came with a full-scale national ban that will be implemented from July 1, 2024. The national ban has come owing to a Safe Work Australia report that found out a rapid rise of victims belonging to silicosis and silica-related diseases, mainly among workers working in engineered stone. So what engineered stone alternatives can we use? There are multiple engineered stone ban alternatives available for your kitchen benchtops. You only have to choose engineered stone replacement.
Eduardo Cosentino, executive vice president of EVP Global Corporate Sales and CEO of Cosentino Australia, who supplied both engineered and natural stone benchtops to the market, says they are seeing a trend towards porcelain benchtop products overseas.
What is Engineered Stone?
Engineered or reconstituted stone is manufactured by mixing crushed quartz with a polymer adhesive to bind it together. Other materials that can be used to create engineered stone include metals, mirrors, shells, and tinted glass to give it a distinct look. Engineered stone has a high silica concentration, and it generates silica dust or respirable crystalline silica when it is cut, ground, or polished. Exposure to this dust can cause permanent lung damage.
Is Caesarstone Engineered Stone?
Yes, Caesarstone brand is famous for engineered stone; the company features a wide variety of colors and patterns. It is a favorite of every homeowner for a sleek, modern look.
Engineered Stone Alternatives and Types of Kitchen Benchtops
Look for a balance in aesthetics and usefulness when you select engineered stone alternatives. We have selected some popular types of kitchen benchtops for you:
Sintered Stone
Sintered stone consists of natural minerals like quartz, glass, and porcelain fused at high temperatures. This produces a nonporous, highly durable surface that is scratch resistant. Glass, porcelain, and quartz are compressed under high pressure and heat to create an essentially durable substance. Surface patterns that resemble marble, woodgrain, cement, and metallics can be printed on them. Be warned: because this is an innovative product, you should expect to pay much more than you would for engineered stone.
Stainless Steel
Just ask a professional chef. Stainless steel benchtops are easy to clean and maintain, giving a professional, industrial appearance that complements a wide range of design types. It is heat resistant and extremely resistant to stains and corrosion, making it ideal for kitchens of high hygiene and cleaning standards. Still, one thing has to be reminded that stainless steel is more prone to fingerprints and scratches as compared to other materials; therefore, it needs constant maintenance.
Composite Stone
The composite stone is made by mixing stone chips and resin. It is a lot like engineered stone but does not contain the lethal component of silica. This is a good option for people who want something economical yet fashionable and eco-friendly. Its opulent finish may not be as good as that of others. However, it is a budget-friendly but probably not a very durable option compared to any pure manufactured stone.
Corian Stone
Is corian an engineered stone, you may be wondering? Yes, corian is a solid surface material that provides an even appearance due to its numerous colour patterns and minimal maintenance. Corian is perfect for kitchens because it is totally solid and non-porous, making it easy to clean and free of bacteria, mildew, and stains. Despite its higher cost, Corian is easily repaired if scratched or damaged, and its mild heat resistance makes it adaptable and long-lasting for homes to enjoy.
Porcelain
Porcelain benchtops are popular for a variety of reasons, most notably their fireproof and UV-resistant qualities. They are made from high-quality porcelain clay and fired at extremely high temperatures, with a coloured coating that resembles natural stone or marble. Thin slabs are lighter than most natural stone, making installation easier, but they must be handled carefully to avoid cracking. One aesthetic drawback of this material is the limited range of edge profiles. Many manufacturers now provide large-format porcelain slabs as an alternative to engineered stone, but they are expensive to make and install. They can, however, withstand scratches and rubbing against.
Natural Stone
Marble and granite are the most popular natural stone choices for manufactured stone benchtops due to their durability and timeless charm. These stones are low-maintenance and simple to clean, requiring only a warm water wash and wiping down after each usage. Furthermore, most natural stones are heat resistant and can be sealed to provide further protection against frequent surface damage caused by daily kitchen activities. In granite vs. engineered stone, granite has a lower silica content; as of yet, marble is a safer option in general.
Reconstituted Stone
Reconstituted stone benchtops are made up of broken stones and resins, giving them a distinct appearance that is more environmentally friendly. It is as durable as steel and comes in a limitless variety of designs. It has a consistent appearance but few colour options.
Concrete
Concrete benchtops have gained popularity due to their raw, industrial, or minimalist look. As they can be dyed or pigmented, each one is different. Concrete, like marble, is porous, and if the sealant wears off, it can discolour. Concrete also scratches easily when burning pans are placed on it, causing the sealant to discolour. Concrete does require occasional resurfacing. Contrary to popular opinion, it is not particularly cost-effective. So, why choose concrete if it is neither cheap nor long-lasting and requires regular maintenance? People choose it for its different style and feel.
Laminate
Modern laminates resemble the feel and look of natural stone, wood, and concrete. Their lightweight designs make installation faster and easier. Laminate benchtops are trendy and can last for decades with proper care. Laminate is stain-resistant and easy to clean with a little soap and water. Laminates that resist scuffing and fingerprinting are also available. It should be noted, however, that it is less heat resistant than stainless steel or natural stone. A chopping board as well as a hot dish protector or trivet. Minor scrapes and chips are repairable. However, if the damage is significant, that part of the benchtop has to be replaced.
Wood
The wood countertop sends warmth and beauty into the kitchen. Timber must be cared for so that it does not become stained, damaged, or dented. Sanding and refinishing may breathe fresh life into solid timber benchtops. Standard pre-cut sizes may be less expensive than custom or thicker options. Timber is usually environmentally friendly and works well in both modern and traditional kitchens. Its top side is prone to scratching, denting, and scorching, but varnish can significantly minimise these types of damages. There is a considerable price difference depending on the board size and type of wood.
Solid Surface
Solid surface is man-made stone; however, it can be created without silica. Made up of resin, minerals, and pigments such as acrylic or polyester. The material is poured into moulds and heated, resulting in a solid sheet that may be easily cut and shaped. They have a smooth appearance, are non-porous, and can often be cleaned with soap and water to remove mould. They may be repairable if scratched or damaged. Another downside of solid surface benchtops is their low heat resistance, requiring the use of trivets or hot pads to protect them from direct heat sources.
Key Considerations When Choosing Your Benchtop
- Choose heat-resistant, stain-resistant, and durable materials.
- Determine the long-term value and the amount of maintenance each material will need.
- Choose a benchtop that can accommodate enough space for cooking and clean-up.
- Keep in mind the position of the sink as well as the placement of the benchtop.
- Consider environment-friendly alternatives like recycled material or stone in nature.
- Hire local providers, and that minimises carbon footprint.
Comparing Kitchen Benchtop Materials
Material | Durability | Maintenance | Aesthetic Variety | Cost |
Engineered Stone | High | Low | High | Moderate |
Granite | Very High | Moderate | Unique | High |
Sintered Stone | Very High | Low | Moderate | High |
Composite Stone | Moderate | Low | High | Moderate |
Reconstituted Stone | Moderate | Low | Limited | Low |
Man-Made Stones | Moderate | Low | High | Low |
Benefits of Choosing Alternatives to Engineered Stone Benchtops
- Natural stones or recycled materials cause less environmental damage.
- Alternatives like laminate are more affordable.
- Engineered stone alternatives, such as stainless steel, require less maintenance.
- Natural stone, particularly granite and marble, is highly heat-resistant.
- Alternatives, such as quartz, have scratch resistance and are very durable.
- Materials like recycled glass or concrete can provide unique shapes and textures.
- Alternatives, such as acrylic, weigh less than engineered stone and make installation easier.
- Granite and marble are natural materials that do not contain contaminants.
In Summary
Your kitchen benchtop may well become a great source of attraction that always makes you have good feelings about it every time you enter the kitchen. The alternatives to engineered stone benchtops discussed in this blog will enable you to make your choice in designing your kitchen. Don’t think twice about these options for engineered stone replacement in your home. Each material has specific advantages that can bring out the beauty of your kitchen, no matter if it is granite, marble, sintered stone, or composite stone. So, whether you need assistance with your dream kitchen interior design or benchtop selections, get in touch with our professionals today at GTG Constructions.