For a very long time, architects and decorators have looked to stone for its classic good looks, resilience, and adaptability in building construction.
Natural stone and engineered stone are the two main candidates when deciding on the best stone for your project.
Despite their superficial similarities, manufactured stone and natural stone are quite different. There are many possibilities and permutations, but picking one can be difficult.
To assist you in making a well-informed decision, we'll explore the nuances of these stones and reveal their individual qualities, advantages, and disadvantages.
What Is An Engineered Stone?
Quartz and composite stones are other names for engineered stone, a technological marvel. In contrast to natural stone, engineered stone is not extracted from the ground but is manufactured in a controlled environment.
To develop this magnificent material that resembles the look of natural stone while providing further personalisation options, resin binders are combined with crushed stone particles, typically quartz.
The production technique allows engineered stone to come in various hues and styles, which is one of its defining characteristics. Because of its reliability, it is a good option if you want your project to have a unified aesthetic.
What Is A Natural Stone?
On the other end of the spectrum is natural stone, formed by geological processes that took millions of years to complete.
Many beautiful stones, each with its own set of characteristics and allure, fall under this umbrella.
Granite countertops are popular because of the stone's longevity and beautiful natural patterns. Marble, the quintessential symbol of luxury, has distinctive veining patterns and an enduring beauty that makes it home in traditional and modern settings.
Slate and limestone are frequently used for flooring and exterior applications due to their rustic charm and adaptability.
Differences Between Natural and Engineered Stone
Where the Stones Came From
The stone's origin is the primary distinction between natural and manufactured stone. Stone slabs are extracted from underground stone quarries to manufacture natural stone countertops like limestone, marble, granite, and travertine.
The minerals built up over millions of years in molten rock give natural stone its distinctive patterns, hues, and textures.
On the other hand, quartz and other engineered stone countertops are natural and combine synthetic components in the manufacturing process.
During manufacture, crushed stone crystals are mixed with resin and colours to give the engineered stone the look of natural slabs.
Strength and Durability
If you're looking for a strong, long-lasting countertop material, your best bet is natural or engineered stone.
Products manufactured from engineered stone are often harder and heavier than those made from natural stone, but that's about it. In terms of durability, though, both options are equal.
Both need regular care and attention to retain their like-new state for as long as possible.
Be careful while cleaning natural and engineered stone countertops because some household chemicals can break the seal.
Appearance
Natural stone slabs are unique With hues, patterns, faults, and quirks.
Slab yards are like art galleries where you may choose your natural stone slab. In this scenario, you'll select a nature art piece as the showpiece in your lavatory or kitchen.
There are two ways to choose engineered stone: from a catalogue and actual pieces. The final stone to your requirements will change slightly from the sample.
Since engineered stone is manufactured to seem like natural stone. Still, without the latter's distinctive patterns and irregularities, it displays a considerably better degree of uniformity concerning both pattern and colour.
Customisation
The manufacturing process for engineered stone provides unmatched personalisation with an extensive palette of colours and designs. While beautiful in and of itself, natural stone has inherent patterns that make it difficult to alter.
Maintenance
The non-porous surface of engineered stone is stain-proof and requires very little upkeep. However, natural stone may need to be sealed and maintained regularly to keep its lustre intact.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Natural and Engineered Stone
Read on for a breakdown of the benefits and drawbacks of each alternative.
Natural Stone Pros and Cons
Natural stone, in its most basic sense, is any stone extracted from the ground. Some homeowners prefer natural stone because it is more beautiful and durable than synthetic materials. All of the following (and just some of the most prevalent) are grouped under the umbrella phrase "natural stone."
- Sandstone Marble Onyx
- Granite Quartzite Onyx
- Onyx
Pro: Natural Stone is Unique
Because it is mined directly from the earth, no two pieces of natural stone will ever be identical. Therefore, slab countertops will each include distinct patterns, veining, and other differences. Visiting stone galleries for a unique piece of stone may be an exciting trip for many homeowners.
Con: It's Heavy
You can expect to receive one large, heavy block of your chosen natural stone. For comparison, the density of 1 14-inch thick granite or quartz is roughly 19 lb/ft2. Most homeowners won't even notice the difference, but if your chosen stone is particularly heavy, you may need to reinforce the support system of your lower cabinets or vanities.
Pro: Great for Resale Value
Natural stone is a popular choice when improving your home's curb appeal. Installing granite countertops is an excellent investment if you plan on selling your home shortly.
Con: Prone to Damage
Because of its porous nature, natural stone can easily be damaged by scratches, etching, and general wear and tear. Natural stone is vulnerable to deterioration when exposed to acids or coloured liquids. Sealing natural stone is crucial in protecting it from deterioration.
Popular Types of Natural Stone
Quartzite
There are some minor but significant distinctions between quartz and quartzite. While quartzite is composed nearly entirely of quartz grains, it is made up of a combination of quartz and resin, giving it its unique appearance and colour. Most quartzite is either white or grey.
Pros
- Enhanced scratch resistance compared to quartz
- Not damaged by cooking temperatures
- There is no duplicate content
Cons
- Because of its porous nature, certain types of quartzite require sealing to prevent staining.
- Inadequate range of colours
- Quartzite, a more luxurious natural stone, costs more than quartz.
Granite
When it comes to natural stones, granite is one of the hardest and strongest options for kitchen counters. It is also entirely natural. Thus, because of this, each piece of granite will have its distinct cracks, swirls, and glinting iron particles.
Pros
- The Thanksgiving turkey and other hot pots can be safely placed on the counter because the surface can withstand high temperatures.
- Colour and design combinations are practically endless.
- When properly sealed, it is impervious to dirt, bacteria, and stains. It also requires very little upkeep and may be fixed in the event of damage.
Cons
- It can crack when subjected to extremes in temperature or force. It must be routinely sealed to prevent discolouration.
- Finding the right shade when you need it can be challenging.
- Required the use of a specialised stone cleaner
Marble
Marble, a natural stone in the luxury category, is both traditional and cutting-edge. Many people are torn between marble and granite because of its classic good looks and high status.
Pros
- Each slab features one-of-a-kind, exquisite colouring, veining, and patterning.
- Strong enough to use on a granite counter without worrying about a scratch
- The higher quality stone is resistant to heat.
- Potentially beneficial to the home's resale price
Cons
- It is easily scratched and stained (so avoid drinking on it!) because it is softer than harder stones.
- Requires frequent sealing.
FAQs About Masonry
Natural stone is considered more eco-friendly as it's directly sourced from the earth. However, the manufacturing process of engineered stone has improved over time to reduce its environmental impact.
Engineered stones can sometimes be more cost-effective than rare or exotic natural stones, but high-end engineered options can approach or even exceed the cost of certain natural stones.
While engineered stone can replicate the appearance of natural stone very closely, experienced eyes might notice subtle differences in patterns, veining, and surface texture.
Natural stone can be more heat-resistant, but some types are susceptible to scratching. Engineered stone is generally more resistant to scratches, but extreme heat can damage the resin binder.
Both engineered and natural stone can last a long time with proper care. Natural stone has a track record of historical durability, while engineered stone's longevity is also expected to be substantial due to its composition.
Engineered Stone Pros and Cons
Engineered stone, sometimes known as produced stone, is a composite material created by mixing finely crushed stone with an industrial resin or adhesive, as opposed to natural stone, which is carved from a slab. To create the appearance of a marble or granite slab, producers will compress stone crystals.
Pro: Uniformity
The appearance of each slab of natural stone is different, yet engineered stone is consistently beautiful. Each stone will have a nearly identical pattern, thanks to engineering advancements that allow for precise control over the stone's appearance. Large areas in which uniformity is paramount can benefit from this.
Con: Heat Damage
The heat resistance of engineered stone is above average. However, the resin foundation expands and contracts with every temperature change, eventually breaking down. Always use a trivet or a cloth to separate your engineered stone from hot cookware.
Pro: Affordable
In most cases, the price of engineered stone will be lower than that of natural stone. In many aspects, engineered stone is a gorgeous option equivalent to natural stone, but it doesn't come with a hefty price tag.
Con: Uniformity
That homogeneity is a "pro" of manufactured stone is something you may have just read, and you'd be right. Uniformity, however, has drawbacks: a surface devoid of texture and design risks seeming more like plastic or laminate than natural stone.
Check that you like how the engineered stone looks when placed by looking at images or examples of it on a large scale (not just a tiny sample).
Pro: Eco-conscious
Natural stone is a nonrenewable resource since it is extracted from the ground after millions of years of development. Mine, ship, cut, and finish also require a lot of energy.
Engineered stone is an artificial material produced on demand using scraps of stone and quartz that would otherwise be thrown away. If eco-friendliness in construction is a priority, engineered stone could be the way to go.
Popular Types of Engineered Stone
There are various engineered and natural stones for countertops to choose from.
Quartz
If you need help deciding between quartz and granite, know that the latter primarily comprises the former. Quartz, a mineral, is a catchall name for several distinct varieties of artificial quartz. Quartz counters are typically manufactured at a factory.
Corian
Corian is a human-made, solid-surface material whose exterior and interior composition are identical. Although there are other manufacturers of a comparable product, this is occasionally recommended as an alternative to more expensive materials like marble, granite, etc.
Sintered Stone
In comparison to quartz, sintered stone is more durable and less porous. This stone is popular for use in bathrooms, kitchens, and flooring by interior designers and architects. The manufacturing process, called "sintering," involves subjecting a mixture of natural minerals to high temperatures and pressures to fuse them into a single, solid component.
Conclusion
Natural stone and engineered stone are two main choices for architects and decorators when choosing the best stone for their projects. Engineered stone, also known as quartz or composite stones, is a technological marvel that is manufactured in a controlled environment, combining resin binders with crushed stone particles, typically quartz. This allows it to come in various hues and styles, making it a reliable option for a unified aesthetic.
On the other hand, natural stone, formed by geological processes that took millions of years to complete, is a popular choice due to its longevity and beautiful natural patterns. Examples of natural stone countertops include granite, marble, slate, and limestone.
The origin of the stones is the primary distinction between natural and manufactured stone. Stone slabs are extracted from underground stone quarries to manufacture natural stone countertops like limestone, marble, granite, and travertine. The minerals built up over millions of years in molten rock give natural stone its distinctive patterns, hues, and textures.
Both natural and engineered stone countertops require regular care and attention to retain their like-new state for as long as possible. Be careful while cleaning natural and engineered stone countertops, as some household chemicals can break the seal.
Natural stone slabs are unique with hues, patterns, faults, and quirks. There are two ways to choose engineered stone: from a catalogue and actual pieces. The final stone to your requirements will change slightly from the sample.
Engineered stone is manufactured to seem like natural stone, but without the latter's distinctive patterns and irregularities, it displays a considerably better degree of uniformity concerning both pattern and color. It also offers unmatched personalization with an extensive palette of colors and designs. While natural stone has inherent patterns that make it difficult to alter, it is difficult to alter.
Maintenance of natural stone is essential, as its non-porous surface is stain-proof and requires very little upkeep. However, natural stone may need to be sealed and maintained regularly to keep its lustre intact.
Natural stone has pros and cons, including being unique, heavy, great for resale value, and susceptible to damage. Some popular types of natural stone include sandstone, marble, onyx, granite quartzite onyx, and onyx. Sealing natural stone is crucial in protecting it from deterioration.
Quartzite is a natural stone with a unique appearance and color, composed of quartz grains and resin. It offers enhanced scratch resistance, is not damaged by cooking temperatures, and has no duplicate content. However, it requires sealing to prevent staining and has an inadequate range of colors.
Granite is one of the hardest and strongest natural stones for kitchen counters, with its distinct cracks, swirls, and glinting iron particles. It can withstand high temperatures, offer endless color and design combinations, and requires little upkeep. However, it can crack when subjected to extremes in temperature or force, and requires regular sealing to prevent discolouration.
Marble is a luxury natural stone with unique coloring, veining, and patterning. It is strong enough to use on a granite counter without worrying about a scratch and is resistant to heat. However, it is easily scratched and stained due to its softer nature. It requires frequent sealing.
Engineered stone, also known as produced stone, is a composite material created by mixing finely crushed stone with an industrial resin or adhesive. It offers uniformity, with each slab having nearly identical patterns. However, it can cause heat damage due to its resin foundation expanding and contracting with temperature changes. Engineered stone is generally cheaper than natural stone, making it a more eco-friendly option.
Popular types of engineered stone include quartz, which primarily comprises the former, corian, which is a human-made solid-surface material with identical exterior and interior composition, and sintered stone, which is more durable and less porous. The manufacturing process, called "sintering," involves subjecting a mixture of natural minerals to high temperatures and pressures to fuse them into a single, solid component.
In summary, quartzite, granite, marble, and engineered stone are all options for countertops. Each type has its pros and cons, but they all offer unique advantages and drawbacks.
Content Summary:
- Natural stone and engineered stone are the two main candidates when deciding on the best stone for your project.
- Despite their superficial similarities, manufactured stone and natural stone are quite different.
- To assist you in making a well-informed decision, we'll explore the nuances of these stones and reveal their individual qualities, advantages, and disadvantages.
- Because of its reliability, it is a good option if you want your project to have a unified aesthetic.
- Granite countertops are popular because of the stone's longevity and beautiful natural patterns.
- The stone's origin is the primary distinction between natural and manufactured stone.
- Stone slabs are extracted from underground stone quarries to manufacture natural stone countertops like limestone, marble, granite, and travertine.
- If you're looking for a strong, long-lasting countertop material, your best bet is natural or engineered stone.
- Products manufactured from engineered stone are often harder and heavier than those made from natural stone, but that's about it.
- In terms of durability, though, both options are equal.
- Be careful while cleaning natural and engineered stone countertops because some household chemicals can break the seal.
- Slab yards are like art galleries where you may choose your natural stone slab.
- There are two ways to choose engineered stone: from a catalogue and actual pieces.
- The final stone to your requirements will change slightly from the sample.
- Since engineered stone is manufactured to seem like natural stone.
- Read on for a breakdown of the benefits and drawbacks of each alternative.
- Natural stone, in its most basic sense, is any stone extracted from the ground.
- Some homeowners prefer natural stone because it is more beautiful and durable than synthetic materials.
- Most homeowners won't even notice the difference, but if your chosen stone is particularly heavy, you may need to reinforce the support system of your lower cabinets or vanities.
- Natural stone is a popular choice when improving your home's curb appeal.
- Installing granite countertops is an excellent investment if you plan on selling your home shortly.
- Sealing natural stone is crucial in protecting it from deterioration.
- There are some minor but significant distinctions between quartz and quartzite.
- When it comes to natural stones, granite is one of the hardest and strongest options for kitchen counters.
- It is also entirely natural.
- Finding the right shade when you need it can be challenging.
- Required the use of a specialised stone cleaner Marble Marble, a natural stone in the luxury category, is both traditional and cutting-edge.
- Requires frequent sealing.
- Engineered stone, sometimes known as produced stone, is a composite material created by mixing finely crushed stone with an industrial resin or adhesive, as opposed to natural stone, which is carved from a slab.
- To create the appearance of a marble or granite slab, producers will compress stone crystals.
- The appearance of each slab of natural stone is different, yet engineered stone is consistently beautiful.
- Each stone will have a nearly identical pattern, thanks to engineering advancements that allow for precise control over the stone's appearance.
- Large areas in which uniformity is paramount can benefit from this.
- The heat resistance of engineered stone is above average.
- Always use a trivet or a cloth to separate your engineered stone from hot cookware.
- In most cases, the price of engineered stone will be lower than that of natural stone.
- In many aspects, engineered stone is a gorgeous option equivalent to natural stone, but it doesn't come with a hefty price tag.
- Check that you like how the engineered stone looks when placed by looking at images or examples of it on a large scale (not just a tiny sample).
- Engineered stone is an artificial material produced on demand using scraps of stone and quartz that would otherwise be thrown away.
- If eco-friendliness in construction is a priority, engineered stone could be the way to go.
- There are various engineered and natural stones for countertops to choose from.
- If you need help deciding between quartz and granite, know that the latter primarily comprises the former.
- Quartz, a mineral, is a catchall name for several distinct varieties of artificial quartz.
- Quartz counters are typically manufactured at a factory.
- In comparison to quartz, sintered stone is more durable and less porous.
- This stone is popular for use in bathrooms, kitchens, and flooring by interior designers and architects.