What is Engineered Stone?

So there you are! Fellow marble enthusiast. If you are searching for “what is engineered stone” or an alternative organic option, you have landed on the right page. When visiting a marble benchtop supplier shop, you must know the basics of marble stone.

At the heart of these basics lies the realm of engineered stone, which you should know before considering anything. So in this guide, I will provide you with a basic knowledge of this stone and also cover the key difference between the most asked query “engineered stone and natural stone”.

But before diving in much deeper let’s just first know what an engineered stone is. So join us, as we embark on this informative guide by delving into the world of an engineered or artificial stone.

What is Engineered Stone?

Oftentimes people get confused when they hear about engineered or quartz stone, but let me tell you that both are the same. Engineered stone which is also known as quartz or artificial stone, is designed by using both natural and artificial elements.

As its name says, this stone is a man-made alternative to natural stone, which is made from crushed stone bound together by a polymer resin. Moreover, the typical composition of this stone contains 90 to 95% natural stone aggregates, such as quartz (which is mostly used), and the rest of it contains resins and pigments.

Furthermore, this stone is quite gaining popularity because of its unique colorization, durability, and budget-friendly options. It can truly mimic the look of natural stones like granite, marble, and limestone, which offers a wide range of patterns and designs. 

But have you ever thought, what is the use of engineered stone? Probably not, so let’s jump into this question for better understanding.

What is Engineered Stone Used For in Australia?

Now after understanding what engineered or artificial stone is, you might be thinking, “Okay, so it’s strong and pretty. But what can I do with it?” Well, the answer is, a lot! Engineered stone is incredibly versatile and can be used in almost any room of your home.

Let’s discuss its versatility with the obvious, the kitchen. There is no doubt that this stone countertop is a dream come true, by providing heat and stain-resistant features. Also, their unique colors and patterns can create an eye-catching kitchen that reflects your personality.

But wait, the kitchen isn’t the one place where these stones can be used. It can be used for flooring, wall cladding, and outdoor furniture, showcasing that this stone’s versatility has no bounds.

Engineered Stone VS Natural Stone: Know The Difference

Searching for the old-age debate between natural and engineered stone is like choosing between chocolate and vanilla, both are delicious but have a distinct difference. So let’s end this debate, by discussing the basic key difference in both of them.

• Natural Stone:- The most common and popular choice of people is natural stone. They are known for their timeless elegance which offers an essence of luxury to your interior. However, these stones also come with some challenges, such as the porous nature of the stone which can lead to stains and potential damage.

• Engineered Stone:- On the other hand, an engineered stone is very famous for its endurance and for the way it gets colored. As they are nonporous they are stain and bacteria-resistant in nature which is an added advantage. When comparing costs during a discussion about the two, engineered stone is slightly cheaper than natural stone.

Composition:

• Engineered Stone: Man-made with crushed stone (usually quartz) and resins.
• Natural Stone: Quarried directly from the earth (e.g., marble, granite).

Appearance:

• Engineered Stone: Consistent in color and pattern.
• Natural Stone: Unique variations in color and veining.

Durability:

• Engineered Stone: Highly durable, non-porous, scratch-resistant.
• Natural Stone: Varies by type; some stones are softer and prone to damage.

Maintenance:

• Engineered Stone: Low maintenance, no sealing required.
• Natural Stone: Requires regular sealing and more care.

Cost:

• Engineered Stone: Generally more affordable.
• Natural Stone: Can be more expensive, especially rare types.

Eco-Friendliness:

• Engineered Stone: Less eco-friendly due to synthetic materials and manufacturing.
• Natural Stone: More natural but quarrying has environmental impacts.

Applications:

• Engineered Stone: Ideal for benchtops, vanities, and countertops.
• Natural Stone: Used in a variety of applications, both indoors and outdoors.

Choosing one for you usually depends on your priorities. If you want a low-maintenance and durable option then engineered stone is perfect for you. But if you are willing to add a unique character of natural stone then these stones can be wonderful for you. 

But do you know that many homeowners opt for a combination of both materials? Yes, you heard it right! You can also opt for the combination of these stones which can create a stunning space in your interior.

Are You Searching For an Engineered Stone Supplier in Australia?

Resulting in the fact that it is a daunting task to look for the engineered stone supplier that will suit their needs. But fear not! At MTP Stone, the search is hassle-free so you do not have to get stressed on that. We have a fabulous collection of engineered stones for your home that appear luxurious and last longer.

From dealing in Granite benchtops to now Engineered Stone benchtops, we have something for you that gives your interior that touch of elegance. Hence, what are you waiting for? In a nutshell, visit our website and choose the marble compatible with your needs.

5 Benefits of Using Engineered Stone Instead of Natural Stone

There is no doubt that the engineered stone has become a good choice for your home interior. Let’s see its top 5 benefits through the below points:

1. Durability:- Engineered or artificial stones are undoubtedly built to last. Their great resistant ability protects them from scratches and cracks. Also, its non-porous nature doesn’t allow this stone to absorb stains like wine and oil.

2. Budget-Friendly:- As compared to natural stones, these stones are generally cost-effective. If you are looking for a budget-friendly alternative to natural stone then let me tell you that this stone will be a perfect fit for you.

3. Low-Maintenance:- Talking about maintenance, all stones are required to be cleaned from time to time so that their strength can be maintained, but this engineer marble stone with its stain-resistant ability requires less maintenance.

4. Sustainability:- Furthermore, these stones use recycled materials, which reduce the look of natural stones like marble and granite.

5. More Designing Options:- Moreover, these stones have more design options as compared to natural stones. With their unique designs and color variation, engineered stones offer a personalized look that can suit your house’s aesthetics.

Pack Up!

So, here we are! The world of engineered benchtops is quite charming and comes up with lots of benefits that can truly enhance the interior to the next level. That is where this blog will be of use, containing all the information, simple or as specific as the difference between engineered and natural marble, that can assist you while choosing this material for your interior.

Just remember that engineered stone is not just a material and certainly not just some material that you place on your countertops; it is an accessory that distills the essence of your home. In this way, you can make your living environment beautiful and effectively solve many problems.

FAQ’s

Q:- Is engineered stone more expensive than natural stone in Australia?

Ans: Engineered stone is generally more affordable than natural stone, offering high-end looks without the hefty price tag.

Q:- What is Engineered Stone?

Ans:- Engineered stone is a man-made material composed of crushed stone, typically quartz, mixed with resin and pigments. It’s durable, non-porous, and ideal for countertops.

Q:- Can I use engineered stone outdoors?

Ans: While primarily used indoors, some engineered stone products are designed for outdoor use. It’s essential to check the product specifications before installation.

Q:- How do I maintain engineered stone countertops in Australia?

Ans: Engineered stone is low maintenance. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is usually sufficient. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.

Q:- Can engineered stone be repaired if it gets damaged?

Ans: Minor scratches or chips can often be repaired by a professional stone restoration service. However, extensive damage might require replacement.

Q:- Can engineered stone be customized in terms of color and pattern? 

Ans: Yes, engineered stone offers a wide range of colors and patterns, including options that mimic natural stone.

Q:- What is engineered granite in Australia?

Ans:- Engineered granite in Australia refers to a man-made composite material made from crushed natural stone (usually granite) mixed with resins and pigments. It is designed to mimic the look of natural granite but offers greater durability, consistency in color, and lower maintenance. It’s often used for countertops, flooring, and other surfaces.