A Beginner's Guide to Engineered Stone

When choosing a material for countertops, engineered stone is perhaps one of the top choices for many reasons. Among these reasons is that this type of stone is environmentally friendly, low-maintenance, and is an excellent alternative to natural stone. This stone has come a long way, yet not everyone&#;s eyes are trained to recognise it.

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If you want to learn more about engineered stones, you have found the right guide. Here, we will discuss more on engineered stones, their pros and cons, types, and the reasons why having an engineered stone for your home&#;s surfaces is worth it.

What Is Engineered Stone?

Also known as an alternative for natural stone, engineered stones possess both natural and artificial elements. From the term itself, engineered stone can make up for the shortcomings of natural stones. They are known for being affordable and durable and having uniform colours, uniformed thickness, and multiple hue variations compared to natural stones.

It usually comprises 90 to 95% crushed quartz with a binder of polymer resin, and the rest is made of other materials, such as shells, mirrors, and metals. But there is a new form of engineered stone that is made up of 30% vinyl and 70% ceramic.

Engineered stone(th,ar,ru)s are used in the same applications that natural stones are used for, but this material is more commonly used for bathroom and kitchen surfaces, particularly backsplashes, flooring, countertops, and benchtops.

Types of Engineered Stones

Here are some of the options available for you if you want to opt for engineered stone surfaces:

1. Caesarstone

It&#;s a no-brainer to choose Caesarstone right away if the costs of natural stones such as granite and marble are too hefty for you. Made of 95% crushed quartz, this type of engineered stone makes an excellent alternative, especially that quartz, as a material, is resistant to scratches and stains.

Caesarstone Slabs

2. Essastone

You can elevate your kitchen or bathroom&#;s look by using Essastone for your surface&#;s material. It comes with sophisticated patterns and palettes, giving you a variety of options to choose from. Because of its 95% natural quartz composition, Essastone is undeniably durable and hard, meaning it can withstand scratches, dents, and heat. And just like any other engineered stone type, Essastone has low maintenance needs.

Essastone Slabs

3. Lithostone

If you want what everyone is having for their surfaces, then Lithostone is the name. With minimal upkeep, durability, and guaranteed longevity, you can be assured that you will be making the right choice if you choose this engineered stone. It is comprised of 90% quartz and is engineered to have a smooth and non-porous finish. And because of that, any surface that uses Lithostone will always like new to the untrained eye.

Lithostone Slabs

4. Quantum Quartz

Maintaining surfaces, such as tiles for bathroom and kitchen floorings, made out of real stones can be tiresome and costly. Your home still has other areas that need upkeep, so why stress when you can opt for an engineered stone, such as Quantum Quartz? It has 93% natural quartz, while the rest of its composition are bonding and pigments that make this stone unique. And get this: it has lesser upkeep needs and is sanitary.

Quantum Quartz Slabs

Pros of Engineered Stone

Here are the pros that come with engineered stones:

1. Durable

Quartz is undeniably one of the world&#;s durable natural stones. And with it having the most percentage in an engineered stone composition, along with developed resin, you can be assured that engineered stones are durable. It is durable enough that even if you use it for various surfaces, you will witness its resistance to heat, scratches, cracks, and more.

2. Resistant

Engineered stones are definitely way better than natural stones when it comes to resistance against scratches, stains, and heat. This makes them the perfect materials used for kitchen where these external factors are inevitable. So, even if you accidentally place a pot or pan that is fresh from the stove or pour vinegar down, you don&#;t have to worry because engineered stones can take and withstand it.

3. Wide Range of Options

Engineered stone&#;s adaptability allows it to blend seamlessly into the design and decour of your house or project. It comes in a vast range and selection of colours, patterns, and designs. And if you want the patterns of marble and granite, an engineered stone can combine the best of both worlds as there are some that mimic the natural appearance of real stones.

4. Fewer Maintenance Needs

Engineered stone benchtops require very little upkeep. Unlike conventional benchtop materials like marble and granite, they do not need frequent resealing to look new. All there is left for you to do is simply and regularly clean them with standard kitchen or bathroom supplies.

5. Affordability

Engineered stone is often less expensive than natural stones. When you consider the lack of continuing maintenance expenses and the peace of mind that comes with a lengthy warranty, engineered stone benchtops become a very appealing investment choice.

Cons of Engineered Stone

Just like natural stones, engineered stones also come with disadvantages. However, the cons will depend on one&#;s preference. So, if you prefer the beauty of imperfections and irregularities brought about by natural stone and want character, engineered stones may not be the best choice for you because, as mentioned, it offers uniform colours and variations.

Although it is also mentioned that you won&#;t have to worry about heat, you should not forget that engineered stones are also comprised of resin, which is plastic. Hence, it is not wholly heat-resistant. And if it is exposed to high temperatures, it can get discolouration issues.

Turn to Stone Interiors for Your Engineered Stone Installation Needs

If you are looking for a Melbourne stonemason company you can entrust with your domestic or commercial projects, Stone Interiors is the name you can rely on. We manufacture and install countertops, benchtops, and other kitchen and bathroom surfaces.

For your manufactured stone benchtop needs and quick and cost-effective stone benchtop installations, get a quote for your project from us by calling 448 494 today!

"Decoding the Brilliance: A Comprehensive Examination of Engineered Quartz Stone for Countertops and Flooring."

This post will cover a complete and detailed analysis of Engineered Quartz Stone. In this blog you will get to know: What exactly is engineered quartz stone ? What is the composition of engineered quartz stone ? Characteristic of engineered quartz stone and the best engineered quartz stone manufacturer :Relay Stone Quartz

Relay Stone: Engineered Quartz Stone. Best for Countertops and Floors

Introduction: Overview of Engineered Quartz Stone

Engineered Quartz Stone as its name suggest is a man made product manufactured by humans or engineers using technology and mineral compositions. It is widely used on Kitchen Countertops, Bathroom Vanities, Bar Counters, Dining Table, Floor, Wall Cladding and Window Sills. Engineered Quartz Stone comes in various designs, color and patterns. Let's go for the complete and details study of Engineered Quartz Stone.

What is Engineered Quartz Stone?

Engineered Quartz Stone in Pure Form

Quartz is a naturally occurring material having chemical name Silicon Dioxide and chemical formula SiO2. This means quartz is the composition of Silicon and Oxygen. In its pure state, quartz occurs in a colorless or white form.

Engineered stone, also known as quartz or composite stone made by combining the natural occurring quartz and a polymer binder called resin. The maximum percentage of composition of engineered stone is the natural occurring quartz which is almost 85% to 90%.

The naturally occurring quartz is crushed into a powder form, and then color pigments are added according to the desired design. Resin is mixed to bond all the components and pressure are applied to remove porosity and internal cracks. Afterward, the mixture turns into raw slabs. These slabs are leveled and polished to obtain the final finished slabs called engineered quartz stone.

Table of Content:

Quartz: Listed among top 10 hardest substance on earth

As per Wikipedia, there are 10 minerals in

Mohs' Scale

as follows: talc, gypsum, calcite, fluorite, apatite, feldspar, quartz, topaz, corundum and diamond .

Quartz

ranks 7th as per the Mohs' Scale of mineral hardness out of 10. Diamond is the most hardest mineral ranking 10 on the Mohs' Scale.

Quartz ranks 7th as per the Mohs' Scale of mineral hardness.

Maximize Space and Style: Relay Stone Quartz Solutions for Modern Indian Kitchens

Relay stone: The Best Engineered Quartz Stone widely used in Indian Kitchen for countertops, is preferred for several reasons:

1. Best-quality raw materials

Relay Stone Engineered Quartz are manufactured from the high-grade quality raw material that are sourced from well experienced suppliers and are tested before processing.

2. The Perfect 18MM Thickness

Relay Stone Engineered Quartz is best known for its 18MM thickness. As per Indian Kitchens and Indian Kitchens manufacturer 18MM is considered the best thickness which is not available in any others brands.

3. Heat, Stain and Scratch Resistant

Relay Stone Engineered Quartz is manufactured from high quality raw materials, processed by advanced machinery and technology that makes Relay Stone as the heat resistant, stain resistant and scratch resistant quartz countertops.

4. Excellent Designs and Patterns

Relay Stone Engineered Quartz has unique designs , colors and patterns that impress the customer to buy the Relay Stone.

Technical Specifications of Engineered Quartz Stone

Table below will give the idea about technical specification of engineered quartz stone:

Test Performed

Results

App. Density kg/dm3

>2.1

Water Absorption %

<0.05

Dimensional Stability

Class A

Flexural Strength (Mpa)

50-60

Impact Resistant (Joule)

5-14.5

Compressive Strength

170-240

Frost Resistance

Complies with Standard

Surface Hardness

6.0-7.0

Abrasion Resistance

Min 25.0

Stain Resistant

Pass

This is an estimated data and the average of 5 best quartz countertops brand in India.

Types of Engineered Quartz Stone: Composite Marble and Quartz Countertops

Relay Stone:Engineered Quartz Stoneor Composite Marble and Quartz Countertops

Engineered quartz stone has a wide range of applications. It can be used on kitchen countertops, flooring, staircase, window sill, wall cladding, and many more. Some applications of engineered quartz stone, such as kitchen countertops, require more strength and resistance to heat, stain and scratches due to frequent use of turmeric and hot pans. In contrast, applications like window sill, wall cladding and flooring require less attention but are crucial for the overall deign. Secondly, area of application determines the cost efficiency of the project. A house kitchen occupies a maximum average 100 sqft-150 sqft area while flooring and wall cladding area occupies the maximum area and budget of the house.

On the basis of area of application and making process, Engineered Quartz Stone is categorized as

1. Composite Marble (Engineered Marble Stone)

2. Quartz Countertops (Engineered Quartz Stone)

Composite Marble:-

Composite marble differs in manufacturing process, composition percentage and pricing.

Relay Stone Engineered Composite Marble Stone

Manufacturing Process:- In the manufacturing of composite marble, a mixture prepared by adding quartz powder, resign and other additive color pigments for designing in semi-liquid state,. This mixture is then allowed to rest and is provided with thermal heat in a large cubical container to get the shape of cubical blocks of average size 10 Foot x 4 Foot X 5 Foot. Once the block hardens and dries, it is processed for cutting by saw cutter into unpolished raw slabs. These slabs are then polished by high end machines to give a final polished and glossy surface slabs.

Composition of Engineered Marble:- Low Quartz Powder, Average Resign and Effective Color Pigments.

Application:- Due to low composition, composite marble is more affordable and can be successfully installed on floor, wall cladding, stairs, window sills etc.

Quartz Countertops:-

As similar to composite marble, engineered quartz stone is different in manufacturing, composition percentage, pricing and specifications.

Relay Stone: Engineered Quartz Stone Manufacturing

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Xinyun.

Manufacturing Process:-

Engineered quartz stone slabs is made piece by piece. The mixture are set on big molds, compressed by high pressure machines and than transferred to oven to remove porosity. These uneven raw slabs are individually grinned and polished to get the final ultimate polished slab ready to be installed.

Composition of Engineered Quartz:- High Quartz Powder, Average Resign and

Effective Color Pigment and comes in 15MM, 18MM, 20MM and 30MM etc. thickness.

Application:- Due to high composition, Engineered Quartz Stone are relatively less affordable than composite marble. As kitchen countertops, requires less area, most buyer are settled for Kitchen Countertops and backsplash wall. Other applications are  wall cladding, stairs, window sills, bar counter, dining table etc.

Brands and Manufacturers of Engineered Quartz Stone in India

Engineered Quartz Stone brands and companies exist in India are:-

1. Relay Stone: The Best Quartz Countertops

2. Caesar stone Quartz Stone

3. Quantra Quartz Stone

4. Kalinga Quartz Stone

5. AGL Quartz Stone

For detail study, follow "Top 5 Kitchen Quartz Countertops Brands in India: Expert's Guide"

Composite Marble vs Quartz Countertops: What Customers Must Know Before Buying Engineered Quartz Stone

Composite Marble and Engineered Quartz Stone behaves differently due to the variation in the composition. Composite Marble is not successful on kitchen slab because of low quartz percentage and less resistant to scratch and stain while Engineered Quartz is considered as the King of Kitchen Countertops. On the other hand, Engineered Quartz is not much successful on floor as it is low re-polish able and not friendly with silica that comes with shoes of home user.

But on, wall cladding, dining table, window sills both are successful depending upon the affordability of the customer.

Difference between Engineered Quartz Stone and Natural Stone

Engineered Quartz Stone and Natural Stone

Engineered quartz stone and natural stone differ in composition, appearance, and performance. Engineered quartz stone is a man made product, made by combining quartz powder, resign and other color pigments. It is non-porous, resistant to heat, stains and scratches, and comes in a wide range of colors and patterns. Natural stone, on the hand, is quarried from the mountains. Natural stone is slightly porous and requires sealing to prevent stains. Natural stone comes with unique variations in color and pattern within the slab and more prone to scratching and chipping compared to Engineered Quartz Stone.

How does engineered quartz stone special from other countertops materials?

Countertops that comes in Indian markets are Engineered Quartz Stone, Granite, Marble, Sintered Stone, Indian Nano (Porcelain), G5 or G7.

Granites mainly comes in dark colors (black, grey, brown). But now a days, only light color (white, beige, textured, calcutta) are in huge demand and architects' first choice. These designs don't available in granite.

Natural marbles are soft and porous. They are unpolished product require more time and effort to install. They can be easily crack as they are soft and easy to get stains.

Sintered Stone, Indian Nano (Porcelain), G5 or G7 fall into the same category. These countertops are highly brittle and prone to cracking and scratching. These countertops are very hard to cut and sometimes crack during installation especially around areas where sinks and hobs are installed.

Engineered quartz stones are known for their durability and wide range of designs and textures like Marble Texture, Statuario and Calcutta, making them suitable for any project theme. They offer a cost-effective solution with minimum wastage, ideal for architects and designers seeking both style and practicality.

What purposes can engineered quartz stone serve?

Engineered Quartz stone plays a very important role in design. Engineered quartz stone is stronger and durable. Earlier, Architects and Interior Designer were limited to the natural stones like Italians, Marble and Granite. These natural stones though were good enough before the engineered stone. Engineered quartz allows for the manufacturing of any design imaginable. These quartz stones are made with using high-tech machines that upgraded the quartz stones without any inner cracks and porosity. Engineered Quartz Stone comes in regular shape and uniform, resulting in very little wastage. Engineered Quartz Stone has addressed issues of designs, aesthetic, durability, cost-effectiveness, making it a transparent choice for customer.

Conclusion: The Exploration of Engineered Quartz Stone

In conclusion, the deep analysis of Engineered Quartz Stone for countertops and floors reveals its exceptional qualities and advantages. Its durability, low maintenance requirements, and wide range of design options make it a superior choice. As a versatile and reliable product, Engineered Quartz Stone continues to be a top choice for modern interior design projects, offering a perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality. Engineered Quartz Stone bridge the gap between design and imagination.

Faqs

Is all engineered stone quartz?

No, all engineered stone are not quartz. Sintered stone, porcelain and nano comes in engineered stone categories but they are not quartz stone.

Are quartz countertops engineered stone?

Yes, quartz countertops are engineered stone.

Is corian an engineered stone or quartz?

No, corian is not an engineered stone or quartz. It comes in the "Solid Surfaces" product category.

Is all quartz engineered?

Yes, it not wrong to say that all quartz are engineered.

Are Relay Stone, Kalinga Stone, AGL Quartz, Caesar stone, and Quantra engineered stone?

Yes, Relay Stone, Kalinga Stone, AGL Quartz, Caesar stone, and Quantra are all belongs to engineered stone.

What is the difference between engineered stone and quartz?

Engineered Stones are the stones which are made by humans or engineer using technology and machines. These stone can Sintered stone or porcelain and quartz is one of among the product.

What is better quartz or engineered stone?

Quartz are called engineered stones. Both are synonyms and can be considered the same. Yes, quartz or engineered stone is the best product for countertops.

Testimonials

Er. Radhika Bhatia(Connaught Place, Delhi)

We recently installed Relay Stone: The Best Quartz engineered quartz stone countertops in our kitchen. The deep analysis provided great insights, helping us choose the perfect design for our countertops.

Dr. Aarav Aggarwal(Sonipat)

After reading the new analysis on engineered composite marble, we decided to use it for flooring renovation of Relay Stone brand. The variety of colors and patterns available in Relay Stone allowed us to find the ideal match for our home.

Ankita Gupta(Chandigarh)

The detailed analysis of engineered quartz stone helped us understand its benefits and qualities. We opted for it in our bathroom and kitchen countertop, and it has exceeded our expectations. The elegant look and easy cleaning have made it a favorite feature in our home.

Rakesh Chhabra(Sainik Farm, Delhi)

We are initially hesitant about using engineered quartz stone for our countertops, but the in-depth analysis convinced us otherwise. The versatility and durability of the material have made our kitchen renovation a success. It's a beautiful and practical choice.

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