Artificial stone for countertops as an alternative to natural counterparts

Artificial stone for countertops is a good alternative to natural material. In terms of its strength and performance characteristics, it is not inferior to granite. Due to the wide variety of shades and decorative surface finish, products made of artificial stone are no less popular than similar products made from a natural analogue. You can learn more about the features and types of composite worktops in this article.

Artificial stone is widely used and is an excellent alternative to natural stone, since the latter is much more expensive and not everyone can afford it.

Artificial stone for countertops: Advantages and disadvantages

Fake diamond has become widespread among other materials that are used for countertops. It is formed by combining acrylic resin or quartz chips with mineral additives. Depending on the components used, there are two types of products: acrylic stone and quartz agglomerate.

Monolithic smooth countertops of any shape without visible joints and seams are obtained from artificial stone

The material is characterized by a number of features that are superior to natural stone and plastic. Stone countertops made of artificial stone, the price of which depends on the type and decorative features of the product, are distinguished by their increased strength, which makes it possible to compare this material with concrete. It tolerates mechanical stress. No scratches remain on the surface of the material. The product is able to withstand heating up to a temperature of 150 degrees without losing its original appearance. The material does not burn. Tabletops are characterized by a long period of operation, during which the appearance and color of the surface remains unchanged.

Due to the fact that the artificial stone does not contain pores in its structure, it does not absorb moisture, odors, does not damp, and microorganisms do not multiply in it. To obtain the material, a special manufacturing technology is used. The raw mix is ​​compacted in special forms by vibration. Further, the pressed products undergo heat treatment, which leads to their polymerization, due to which the plates become monolithic.

The material is resistant to temperature fluctuations, as a result of which it can be used in bathrooms. Having a smooth surface, it can be easily washed with any cleaning and detergent that is unable to affect the aesthetic appearance of the product. Therefore, it is advisable to use a stone countertop made of artificial stone for the kitchen.

Composite materials are appreciated for their beautiful appearance and rich decorative possibilities, they are strong and durable

Thanks to the seamless technology of manufacturing the product, smooth monolithic surfaces without visible joints and seams are obtained, which makes it possible to connect countertop with sink, window sill or a table. The material is available in a wide range of colors. Here you can find models on the surface of which a drawing, emblem or photo is applied. Due to the plasticity of the material, the product can be made in various configurations, as well as with the design of the ends of different shapes.

The main disadvantage of artificial stone countertops is their high cost in comparison with more affordable products from ceramic tiles, porcelain stoneware, MDF, laminated chipboard.

Characteristics of acrylic stone countertops

Acrylic countertops are very popular today. They are made of modern polymer, which includes:

• mineral fillers in an amount of at least 70% of the total weight;

Acrylic stone is a modern polymer consisting of mineral particles, coloring pigments and acrylic resins

• acrylic resins for bonding components;
• aluminum hydroxide;
• hardeners;
• plasticizers;
• dyes.

The main advantages of the material are:

• homogeneous structure, which excludes the formation of microscopic pores, which increases the environmental friendliness of the material;
• the seamlessness of the product, which is obtained as a result of the possibility of its grinding;
• moisture and vapor resistance;
• a wide variety of colors and ornaments that do not fade over time;

The problem with acrylic countertops is that they scratch quite easily and all scuffs and defects will be visible on the surface.

• the ability to imitate a type of natural stone or valuable wood species on the surface;
• low weight of the product, due to which it does not need special fasteners and reinforcement of the table structure;
• relatively warm to the touch surface;
• environmental safety of the material;
• easy care, which is limited to wiping the surface with a damp sponge;
• the ability to create elements of various shapes and modifications;
• ease of processing, which allows you to cut, drill holes, restore and polish the surface.
• the ability to repair a countertop made of artificial stone, which consists in polishing and grinding the product in case of visible scratches.

Among the negative characteristics, the following indicators can be distinguished:

• low resistance to mechanical stress, as a result of which scratches, traces of cuts and dents remain on the surface;

Acrylic countertops are not afraid of accidental damage - everything can be corrected by grinding and polishing the surface

• exposed to acids and strong dyes, which can be absorbed into the material and irreversibly spoil the appearance of the surface;
• low rate of heat resistance.

Useful advice! When choosing acrylic countertops, it is recommended to give preference to products of light shades, on which scratches will not be so noticeable. It is better to choose a material with a rich stone texture or grainy pattern.

Features of quartz agglomerate countertops

Quartz agglomerate is represented by a composite material, which consists of quartz, granite or marble chips in the amount of 90-96% of the total mass, polyester resin, dyes and decorative additives of various kinds in the form of glass or mirror particles.

Agglomerated stone countertops look expensive and impressive, and at a price much more affordable than natural stone

The material is characterized by a number of distinctive advantages:

• increased strength;
• long service life without loss of pristine technical and aesthetic characteristics;
• resistance to mechanical damage;
• moisture resistance;
• the hygiene of the material, which is a consequence of the absence of pores where microorganisms can develop;
• immunity to acids;
• short-term resistance to high temperatures;
• easy to clean and clean;
• does not need special care with the use of special products;
• has a wide range of colors.

Despite all the advantages, the agglomerate surface is still afraid of abrasive detergents

The disadvantages of the material include:

• high price;
• lengthy manufacturing process;
• very cold surface;
• expensive and time-consuming product installation;
• conditional heat resistance;
• Visible prints form on dark glossy surfaces;
• susceptibility to the use of abrasive products in the form of hard sponges and brushes, which leave noticeable scratches on the surface;
• the visibility of the joints if the length of the product exceeds 2 m;
• the ability to use only to create simple rectilinear geometric shapes.

Useful advice! An object that is too hot should not be placed on the countertop, which will leave a visible mark on the surface. To do this, use a special stand.

Unlike acrylic, quartz agglomerate countertops cannot be scratched by cutlery

Natural stone countertops: what is the difference from an artificial analogue

Countertops made of natural stone can bring comfort and sophistication to the interior of the room. Natural stone blends perfectly with ceramics, wood, metal and stained glass. The material is in perfect harmony with different styles of interior design, which allows it to be used in the decoration of kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, living rooms, offices and office premises.

Products are characterized by moisture resistance, resistance to mechanical, temperature, thermal and chemical influences. These are wear-resistant and durable coatings that retain their original color and appearance for a long time. However, natural stone countertops are heavy, which makes the installation of the product a laborious and costly process that requires certain skills in installation work.

For the manufacture of countertops, marble, granite, sandstone and onyx are used. Manufacturers also produce mosaic panels, which are of great artistic value and are expensive.

The structure of natural stone is practically no different from its artificial counterpart, but it costs much more

The most wear-resistant are granite countertops, which are immune to moisture, high temperature, mechanical damage and acids. The product has a respectable and noble appearance, which makes it easily fit into any room design.

Related article:

Artificial decorative stone: making at home and laying

Advantages and disadvantages. Varieties of artificial stone. Form making. Production of different types of stones. Styling features.

No less functional is the cast marble countertop, rich in a variety of shades and natural patterns. However, the structure of the material is softer and more porous. In addition, it is sensitive to aggressive effects, therefore, traces of any substances with a rich natural color or containing dyes will remain on its surface. In order for the product to retain its original appearance for a long time, it should be treated with special means that will increase the surface resistance to colored liquids.

Artificial stone is resistant to moisture, has high strength and is distinguished by its durability

Useful advice! Marble countertops not recommended for use in kitchens.

The chic onyx countertop is an element of luxury in the room. Having a pastel-soft shade, the product gives the room comfort, lightness and beauty, and the unique ability of the material to transmit light makes the surface especially attractive and magical. This is the most expensive type of stone countertop, which can be bought from 18 thousand rubles / m².

The cheapest natural stone products are sandstone countertops. They are resistant to moisture and temperature changes. Cracks do not form on the surface as a result of mechanical stress. You can buy a product from 7.5 thousand rubles / m².

Artificial stone countertops manufacturers: product price

About three dozen world companies are engaged in the production of artificial stone countertops. Such brands as Montelli, Corian, Staron, Hi-Macs, Max-Top specialize in the manufacture of acrylic surfaces.

It is not for nothing that kitchen countertops made of artificial Corian stone are extremely popular all over the world, materials from this brand are deservedly considered the best today.

Judging by numerous reviews, artificial stone countertops from the American brand Corian are very popular among consumers. The company is the pioneer of the artificial hard flooring industry (invented and patented the DuPont material in 1966). Over the years, the manufacturer has improved the technology, developed know-how. This has led to the fact that Corian artificial stone has become an elite material with unique characteristics and capabilities.

The company uses the latest unique technology for producing flowers, thanks to which the products of this manufacturer have a varied color palette of more than 100 shades. You can order a stone countertop from 13 thousand rubles. per r. m.

No less popular is another American company, Montelli, which also specializes in the production of high-quality, durable, non-porous, moisture-resistant, seamless acrylic-based artificial stone. Such products have a lower cost. More than 73 color options of the product are presented in the catalogs of the company. The product price is in the range of 10-19 thousand rubles. per r. m.

Montelli surface materials allow you to realize the most daring kitchen design ideas and achieve a combination of durable beauty and practicality

The South Korean corporation Samsung has opened a division of Staron, which is engaged in the manufacture of artificial stone products using the latest advanced technology, which provides for material hardening in two stages, which affects the final strength of the element. The tabletop has increased strength, moisture resistance, resistance to high temperatures (up to 160 degrees). You can buy the product for an average of 9 thousand rubles. per r. m.

Another brand from South Korea is Hi-Macs, which produces high-tech material with exceptional strength and performance characteristics. Products are available in a wide range of color combinations and design solutions, which allows you to choose a product for any room design. The price of a countertop made of artificial stone per square meter starts from 6.5 thousand rubles.

A good ratio of price and quality is offered by the domestic manufacturer Max-Top. The products have high strength characteristics. It is presented in a classic palette of cool shades, which are complemented by splashes of color or chaotic patterns. You can buy a countertop made of artificial stone from 7.5 thousand linear meters. m.

A fairly large number of different companies around the world are engaged in the production of artificial stone

Review of manufacturers of quartz stone countertops: product price

The best are quartz countertops made of artificial stone from manufacturers: Zodiaq, Silestone, Caesarstone, Techinistone, Plaza Stone.

The American company Zodiaq holds an honorable leading place among other manufacturers of quartz agglomerate products. The material contains 93% quartz, as well as polymer binders. This structure contributes to obtaining a durable and wear-resistant product with a long service life. A feature of the products is the unique appearance of the products.

The use of quartz chips of various fractions in combination with polymers allows you to create a unique composition similar to a diamond shine. Such a product will be an exquisite addition to any room design. The average product price is 14 thousand rubles / m².

No less popular is the Italian company Cosentino, which manufactures products from artificial stone with high strength and decorative characteristics. A feature of the product is the antibacterial protection of the surface, which consists in the addition of small particles of silver to the raw material. In order for these inclusions not to darken upon contact with water, they are covered with the thinnest glass shell, which significantly improves the quality of the artificial stone. The price of countertops starts from 9 thousand rubles. per m².

The average price of quartz stone countertops is 14 thousand rubles / m²

The Israeli company Caesarstone produces agglomerate, which contains 94% quartz chips. The products are available in a variety of colors and unexpected textures. The use of special dye additives allows you to create shades that are as close to natural as possible. The cost of the product starts at 7.5 thousand rubles.

The Czech manufacturer Techinistone produces smooth, polished granules with improved hardness and high mechanical strength. The main advantage of the material is the preservation of the same pattern on all products of a specific model. The price of a countertop made of artificial stone starts from 7 thousand rubles.

Quartz agglomerate from the Italian brand Plaza Stone combines good quality and reasonable cost. The composition of the material includes up to 96% of granite and quartz chips, due to which the product is characterized by maximum strength, wear resistance and durability. The cost of the countertop is on average 12 thousand rubles.

The Italian brand Plaza Stone produces a quartz agglomerate that combines good quality and reasonable cost.

Artificial stone kitchen countertops

The countertop in the kitchen is the main cooking work surface. It is exposed to moisture, grease, soot, and aggressive chemicals. Therefore, special requirements are imposed on the surface. She must be:

• durable;
• moisture resistant;
• reliable;
• durable;
• heat resistant;
• resistant to mechanical and aggressive influences;
• able to clean easily and quickly without losing its original appearance.

All of the above requirements are met by artificial stone, which is the most suitable type of countertop for the kitchen. In addition to performance, aesthetics is an important factor in material selection. Natural stone kitchen countertops are distinguished by a small assortment of colors and patterns. In addition, it is very difficult to find two pieces of granite or marble with the same pattern, so the surface of several slabs will not seem monolithic. Joints and seams will be visible on it.

Unlike natural stone, artificial stone has a relatively low weight, which reduces the load on the supporting structures of furniture

The artificial stone kitchen countertop can be made in any color, shape and surface decoration. When choosing a product, you can find products that imitate stone, wood, metal and other materials. Plates from the same collection have the same pattern, so the seams and joints on the countertop are invisible, but they simply do not exist on acrylic products. The cost of such products is much lower than their natural counterpart. You can buy an inexpensive tabletop made of artificial stone from 6.5 thousand rubles.

Artificial stone countertop for bathroom the room

Artificial stone is ideal for making bathroom furniture, including countertops. Due to the lack of hygroscopicity, the material is hygienic, which is important for such a specific room. Artificial stone is an inert and non-toxic material that does not tend to emit harmful fumes at any temperature.

In an environment with high humidity, an acrylic product is the best option due to the fact that it is characterized by increased moisture resistance and does not swell from water. In the process of making a countertop made of artificial stone, the front side of the product is polished, which gives the surface brightness and shine.

For a room with a high humidity threshold, an artificial stone countertop is the ideal choice

Products from quartz stone are characterized by strength and presentability, from acrylic - by a variety of complex lines. Today you can order a countertop made of artificial stone of any shape, which brings uniqueness and style to the interior of the room.

The product is unpretentious in maintenance: it is enough to periodically wipe the surface with a damp cloth using non-abrasive detergents.

Acrylic can be used to make more than just bathroom countertops. A washbasin of any shape can be made of artificial stone, which will allow you to create a perfect furniture ensemble in the room.

In small rooms, you can place a washbasin with a countertop in the corner, it will take up a minimum of space and will be very convenient to use. The multi-level model looks interesting and at the same time functional, which will be a good solution for a family with small children.

Artificial stone has no pores in its structure, therefore it does not absorb liquids, odors, or bacteria

Useful advice! Small pets can be washed in sinks below the countertop.

DIY artificial stone countertops

The production of artificial stone surfaces is a complex and multi-stage process that requires expensive equipment and accessories, which is impossible to reproduce at home. However, you can make a tabletop with your own hands using injection molding technology. A minimum of equipment is required here.

The creation of an artificial stone with your own hands is carried out in the formwork, which is assembled on a smooth metal or glass surface. A template of the future surface is made from a chipboard sheet, which is installed on the assembly table. Walls of chipboard strips are placed against it, which are attached with stops on hot melt glue, after which the template is removed.

After the process of polishing and profiling the edge, you need to cut out all the necessary holes

The formwork is cleaned of dust and covered with a thin even layer of wax, which is used to prevent adhesion of the liquid acrylic compound. According to the instructions for the production of liquid stone, the production of a raw mixture is carried out. Acrylic gel, mineral chips and hardener are mixed in a certain ratio. Using a spray gun with a large nozzle, the liquid mixture is applied to the inner surface of the formwork in a layer of no more than 1 mm. After the surface has dried, a second 3 mm thick ball is applied.

The second stage is to pour acrylic resin into the formwork with a layer of 5 mm. The surface is leveled with a spatula. A previously made chipboard template is cut around the perimeter by 6 mm, and the corner edges are also removed from it. The model is placed on a poured acrylic layer. A load is placed on it so that the template does not completely squeeze out the resin underneath. After 30 minutes, the load is removed, after which the second layer of acrylic resin is poured in such a way that it fills all the gaps between the edges of the formwork and the chipboard sheet, forming the edges of the table top. After 24 hours, the formwork is removed, the product is sanded and polished. The cost of a countertop made of artificial stone will be much lower than the price of a factory product and will amount to an average of 3.5 thousand rubles / m².

The sanding process can only be started after the material has completely dried

Based on numerous reviews, artificial stone countertops are among the most popular surfaces, which, due to their good technical, operational and aesthetic characteristics, are used in bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, cafes and restaurants. Characterized by a variety of colors and textures, the products fit perfectly into any room interior.