An important part of any bathroom, it's certainly a sink. It can be made not only from faience, majolica and metal, but even from glass or wood. And what about the stone shell, for example, of artificial stone? This is a very good option, which has more pluses than minuses. Many prefer this type of shell, and now you will know why.
Advantages of
Sanitary engineering from artificial stone refers to products of modern technologies.
Advantages of these popular products today are:
- Resistance to abrasion and shock;
- Durability;
- Heat resistance;
- Water resistance;
- Hygiene;
- No seams;
- Ease of care;
- Unusual forms;
- Rich choice of colors;
- A good alternative to natural stone in both price and weight.
Disadvantages of
Despite the advantages of these shells, some of them still do not meet the above requirements.
Products from acrylic stone , especially glossy, easily scratched. In this regard, it is recommended to choose them in light and non-uniform tones, so that damage, if suddenly they do appear, were not very noticeable. Producers also assure that such a trouble without special complexity is restored right on the spot. But not everyone will want to spend extra money and time on this.
The sintered washbasins are more durable, but due to the low plasticity of the material, there is a possibility of its deformation in the form of microcracks, which at once can be imperceptible, but in the future will serve as the main reason for the formation of a large crack, or even worse.
Also worth noting, if the surface of the sintered stone is glossy, it is better not to use abrasive cleaning agents, so that the appearance of the product remains sparkling and fresh.
The general drawback of all types of sinks from artificial stone is the content of a considerable number of chemical elements that are used in production. However, the manufacturers claim that not all of them are as harmful as it seems, so the choice is only for the buyer. If you are concerned, look at the bathroom sinks from natural stone.
Types of materials
The composition of artificial stone includes a variety of natural and synthetic components. The mixture obtained from them undergoes thermal and mechanical treatment, as a result of which this material of various types is formed, but having practically the same characteristics. It is homogeneous, the surface is ideal, smooth, absolutely non-porous, which ensures hygienic and water-repellent properties.
The following types of artificial stone are distinguished:
Ceramic granite
This artificial material is obtained by pressing and firing a homogenized mixture of substances. The mass consists of liquefied clay, quartz, kaolin, pegmatites, water and feldspar. During processing, the crystal structure acquires the properties of a stone from which shells, countertops and facing products are made. The color palette is very diverse.
Products made of ceramic granite are very durable - up to a hundred years of service, if not subject them to heavy loads.
Composite stone
The material is quite diverse. Many manufacturers have their own recipe for raw materials. The most well-known composition is made of granite or marble chips with synthetic binders. Such a stone has no seams, it is easy to care because of its non-hygroscopic surface.
Some products from this type of stone stand out with their somewhat artificial appearance.
Agglomerate
Agglomerated stone is made from stone crumbs of various rocks. It can be marble, granite or quartz. To improve the quality in the raw material add sand, or glass particles, as well as coloring pigments, for a variety of textures. The polymer resin is the connecting element.
This material looks quite natural, the texture is smooth and cold. It does not absorb odors, does not change the color of the texture over time and is resistant to active chemical preparations. The agglomerate is hard to treat, so the products from it do not have a complex configuration.
Acrylic stone
Mineral substances, acrylic resin and coloring pigments are used in the production of this plastic stone. The mixture of components is laid out in a mold for hardening, after which the finished material is subjected to further processing - shaping.
Acrylic is very similar in appearance to natural stone. Of its best qualities, the sound-absorbing ability, hygiene and resistance to chemically active agents are distinguished.
Forms of
Artificial stone allows making shells of any configuration. The choice of this or that design depends on the type of stone, as only some have pronounced plastic properties. In this case, nature will be the best source for inspiration and a role model.
When choosing the shape of the product, remember the location of the piping.
Which interior is right for you?
Wash basins in artificial stone decorate any bathroom. For example, the elegant form of sanitary items will look organically in each bathroom, rather than massive geometric products. In the opinion of architects, the interior will be decorated with simpler and more precise shapes than fanciful ones.
We bring to your attention a short review.
With information about the features of shells made of artificial stone, you will competently go to the choice of plumbing, weighing all the pros and cons. And do not forget to demand a guarantee for the goods you buy.
