We understand that renovating the kitchen could become a stressful process in which homeowners could get lost along the way. However, for all of those that don’t know where to get started, we recommend choosing the countertop first. This surface will be the focal point of the whole room and determine the overall style. To ease this decision, below, we will make a complete comparison of sintered stone vs quartz.
When looking at both of these materials for the first time, it might be difficult to tell whether there is any difference between the surfaces. However, sintered stone vs quartz has particular characteristics, which makes it a unique type of countertop. But how can this happen if both are man-made materials?
To answer this question, we can take a look at some of the most popular natural countertops. For instance, marble and quartzite belong to this category, but when looking at them separately, each surface has unique features. It happens the same with engineered products.
That’s why, when trying to decide between sintered stance vs quartz, there are several factors to consider.
Sintered Stone vs Quartz Countertops: A complete comparison
To compare the two materials, there are various elements we will need to talk about, such as composition, characteristics and maintenance. However, we will also include the sintered stone vs quartz cost for all those homeowners that are on a budget.
Composition
Homeowners should keep in mind that the composition of these surfaces might change according to the brand. But, overall, a sintered stone is composed of quartz, minerals and other raw materials which are mixed and fused together. This is very similar to the process implemented to produce granite. As a result, sintered countertops resemble the look of natural stones.
On the other hand, quartz is an engineered stone that is made of a natural mineral extracted from the ground and a combination of resins. Because of how it is produced, it can be easily personalized. However, only some manufacturers offer this option.
In the same way that it happens with sintered stone, quartz also resembles the look of natural stones such as marble. The best part is that a quartz surface will last for many years, which makes this countertop eco-friendly.
Since quartz has become so popular in recent years, there has been much dispute about which material is superior: granite or quartz. If this is a material you want to explore, learn more about it by clicking on the link: https://www.caesarstoneus.com/blog/quartz-countertops-vs-granite-the-big-debate/
Style
Even though both surfaces resemble the look of natural stone, the appearance of the sintered stone is controlled by imaging technology. This means that it can achieve a more realistic pattern of marble. Plus, this additional benefit does not come at an extra cost. In fact, sintered stone vs quartz cost is more affordable.
The production of quartz does not use this kind of technology. Instead, every part is equally integrated. That’s why in the end, homeowners will be able to see the pattern at the sides as well. While a sintered stone countertop only displays the design at the top.
Hardness
Quartz is already known in the market for its hardness. Through the fabrication process, quartz is exposed to a high amount of pressure, which, in the end, results in a 7 on the Mohs scale. This is the official system in which the harness of any material is classified as the highest score is 10.
Right now, some homeowners might be wondering, why is it important to have a countertop with a high hardness score? Well, this is a crucial feature since we are talking about a surface that you will be using every day.
Then, if the sintered stone countertops vs quartz costs are cheaper, does that mean the surface can easily crack? The answer is no; in fact, a sintered stone is very hard and can withhold its quality even if you are a home chef who likes to prepare all meals.
Durability
First, it is vital to understand that their hardness mainly determines the durability of countertops. Since both quartz and sintered stone countertops are hard materials, their durability is similar. When taking proper care of them, these surfaces can last for a long time and even increase the property’s value.
Maintenance
The thing that homeowners love the most about engineered quartz is that it is easy to maintain. Surfaces such as marble or soapstone need to be sealed at least once a year because it is porous. This means that liquids can penetrate beyond the surface and, over time, this can damage the structure. But, quartz is water, scratch and heat resistant. Plus, to maintain it, homeowners will only need some warm water, a cloth and mild soap.
Sintered stone countertops are also low-maintenance. However, it is important to wipe them off every day. If it gets stained, there are only a couple of products that homeowners might be able to use. That’s why it is crucial to read the instruction manual.
Cost
In this article, we have outlined different features of both surfaces. Now, it is time to talk about the sintered stone countertops vs quartz cost. From all the information we have gathered, these surfaces share similar characteristics. That’s why the price of both of them is in the same range. Today each slab costs $65-$100 square feet.
We know the price might seem a little high compared to granite, but it is worth it. Homeowners should consider that these surfaces will last for many years. Plus, they will add value to the property. Keep in mind that depending on the brand, sintered stone countertops vs quartz cost might be a bit cheaper.
Versatility
Quartz and sintered stone are typically used in kitchens, but amusing fact: they may also be utilized in bathrooms! Both of them are moisture-resistant, which makes them ideal for bathroom fixtures including sinks, vanities, and shower pans. Nonetheless, sintered stone is more adaptable than quartz. It can be utilized for flooring, wall cladding, or accent walls because it is far more fade-resistant than quartz. Because of its durability, it’s also a fantastic material for tables, cabinets, and even vanities!
Resistance to External Elements
The stain resistance of these two fabrics is an additional advantage. That implies that anything, from chili powder to turmeric, can be removed from the surface without leaving any bothersome stains behind. Nevertheless, this is where the similarities end because quartz lacks the property of heat resistance that sintered stone does. Sintered stone, as opposed to quartz, which can tolerate temperatures of up to 100°C, is formed when all the heat is exposed, resulting in a level of resistance that lets it withstand temperatures of up to 300°C. That implies that you are able to set your scorching-hot pot directly onto a sintered stone surface. Furthermore, unlike quartz, which is more prone to scratches and other types of damages, sintered stone is fully impenetrable to scratches.
Final Thoughts
Through this article, we have made a complete comparison of two of the most popular materials in the market, including features such as composition, design and maintenance. However, we have also talked about one of the key factors: the sintered stone vs quartz cost. We recommend both materials to homeowners. But, in the end, it will be easier to choose one depending on the kitchen style.