Artificial stone countertops

Artificial stone countertops is a good alternative to natural materials. According to their strength and performance is not inferior to granite. Due to the large variety of colors and decorative surface of the execution, artificial stone products are no less popular than similar products made from natural analogue. About the features and types of countertops made of composite material can be found in detail in this article.

Artificial stone countertops: Advantages and disadvantages

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

The material is characterized by a number of features, which is superior to natural stone and plastic. Stone countertops made of artificial stone, the price of which depends on the type and decorative features of products, characterized by high strength, which allows you to compare the material with concrete. He endures mechanical stresses. On the surface of the material does not remain scratches. The product is capable of withstanding temperatures up to 150 degrees without losing pristine appearance. The material does not burn. Characterized countertop long period of operation, during which the stored unchanging appearance and color of the surface.

Due to the fact that the artificial stone contains in its structure since it does not absorb moisture, odors, not syreet, it does not reproduce the microorganisms. For material used special manufacturing technology. Raw mixture is compacted in special molds vibration. Further compacted products undergo heat treatment, which leads to their polymerization, whereby plates are monolithic.

The material is resistant to temperature fluctuations, thus can be used in bathrooms. With a smooth surface, it is easy to wash any cleaning and detergents are unable to affect the aesthetic appearance of the product. It is therefore advisable to use for kitchen Stone countertops made of artificial stone.

Thanks to the seamless manufacturing of a product technology, a smooth monolithic surface without visible joints and seams, which gives an opportunity to connect with countertop sink, a window sill or table. The material is available in different colors. Here you can find models, on the surface which caused drawing, logo or photo. Due to the ductility of the material the product may be performed in various configurations, as well as check the ends of different shapes.

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

Characteristics of the acrylic stone countertops

Very popular today are acrylic countertops. They are made of modern polymer which is composed of:

• mineral fillers in an amount not less than 70% of the total weight;

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

The main advantages of the material are as follows:

• homogeneous structure, which prevents the formation of microscopic pores, which raises environmental material;
• seamlessness product, which is obtained as a result of the possibility of its grinding;
• moisture and paroustoychivost;
• a large variety of colors and patterns, do not fade with time;

• can be simulated on the surface of the form of natural stone or fine wood;
• small weight of the product, so it does not require special fasteners and strengthening of the table structure;
• relatively warm to the touch surface;
• environmentally friendly materials;
• easy care, which is limited to the surface by wiping with a damp sponge;
• the ability to create elements of the various forms and modifications;
• ease of processing, which enables cutting, drilling holes, restore and polish the surface.
• opportunity to carry out repairs of the artificial stone countertops, which consists in polishing and grinding products in the event of the formation of visible scratches.

The following indicators can be distinguished among the negative characteristics:

• low resistance to mechanical stress, resulting in scratches on the surface remain traces of cuts and dents;

• exposed to strong acids and dyes that can be absorbed into the material and irreversibly ruin the appearance of the surface;
• lowest thermal stability.

Useful advice! When choosing countertops made of acrylic it is recommended to give preference to products of bright colors, which not will be visible scratches. It is better to choose a material with rich texture of stone or granular pattern.

Features countertops made of quartz agglomerate

Quartz agglomerate contains the composite material, which consists of quartz, granite or marble chips in an amount 90-96% of the total weight of the polyester resin, pigments and additives of various kinds of decorative as a glass or mirrored particles.

The material is characterized by several distinct advantages:

• high strength;
• long service life without losing the pristine technical and aesthetic characteristics;
• resistant to mechanical damage;
• moisture resistance;
• hygienic materials, which is a consequence of the lack pores, wherein microorganisms may grow;
• immunity to acids;
• short-term resistance to high temperature;
• easily washed and cleaned;
• It needs no special care with the use of special tools;
• It has a wide range of colors.

The disadvantages of the material include:

• high price;
• long manufacturing process;
• very cold surface;
• expensive and time-consuming installation of the product;
• conventional heat resistance;
• in dark glossy prints visible surfaces are formed;
• susceptibility to application of abrasive means in the form of hard sponges and brushes that leave visible scratches on the surface;
• visible joints when the product length is more than 2 m;
• the ability to use only for simple rectilinear geometry.

Useful advice!You can not put on the table very hot object, which will leave a visible trace on the surface. To do this, use a special stand.

Table tops made of natural stone: They differ from artificial analogue

Table tops made of natural stone, can bring to your home decor comfort and refinement. Natural stone blends perfectly with ceramics, wood, metal and stained glass. Material harmonizes well with different styles of interior design that allows it to be used in the finishing of kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, living rooms, classrooms and offices.

Products are characterized by resistance to moisture, resistant to mechanical, thermal, thermal and chemical resistance. It is wear-resistant and durable coating, which for a long time retain its original color and appearance. However, natural stone countertops have a considerable weight, which makes the installation of the product time-consuming and costly process, requiring specific skills in the assembly work.

For the manufacture of countertops use marble, granite, sandstone and onyx. Manufacturers also produce mosaic panels, which, having a great artistic value, are of high value.

The most wearproof are granite countertops, impervious to moisture, heat, mechanical damage and exposure to acids. The product has a respectable and noble appearance, making it easy to fit into any room design.

Related article:

Artificial decorative stone: production at home and laying

Advantages and disadvantages. Varieties of artificial stone. Production form. Production of various kinds of stones. Features stacking.

No less is the functional top made of cast marble, a rich variety of natural colors and patterns. However, the structure of the material is softer and more porous. Moreover, it is sensitive to aggressive, so its surface will remain traces of any substances having a saturated or containing natural color dyes. To the product permanently retained original appearance, it should be handled with special features which enhance the stability of the surface to color liquids.

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

Chic worktop onyx element is luxury indoors. With soft pastel hue, the product gives the room comfort, lightness and beauty, and the unique ability of a material to transmit light makes the surface very attractive and magic. It is the most expensive type of stone countertops, which you can buy from 18 thousand. rub. / m².

The cheapest products are made of natural stone sandstone countertops. They are resistant to moisture and temperature changes. On the surface cracks are not formed as a result of mechanical influences. Buy the product can be from 7.5 thousand. rub. / m².

Manufacturers countertops made of artificial stone: the price of products

Production of artificial stone countertops are engaged about three dozen companies in the world. Specialize in the manufacture of acrylic surfaces such brands as Montelli, Corian, Staron, Hi-Macs, Max-Top.

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

The company uses the latest technology to produce a unique color, so that products of this manufacturer has a diverse color palette, with over 100 shades. Order Countertops made of stone can be from 13 thousand. rub. for TDG. m.

No less popular is another American company Montelli, which also specializes in producing high quality, durable, non-porous, moisture resistant, seamless artificial stone on acrylic-based. Such products are of lower cost. The company's catalog contains more than 73 color options for the product. The price of production is in the range of 10-19 thousand. rub. for TDG. m.

South Korean corporation Samsung Staron opened unit, which is engaged in the manufacture of artificial stone products for modern advanced technology providing performance hardening material in two phases, which affects the final strength element. Worktop has increased strength, water resistance, resistance to high temperature resistance (up to 160 degrees). Buy the product can be an average of 9 thousand. rub. for TDG. m.

Another brand from South Korea is the company Hi-Macs, which produces high-tech material with outstanding strength and performance. The products are in a wide range of color combinations and designs, allowing you to choose the product to any room design. The price of artificial stone countertops per square meter starts from 6,5 thousand. rub.

Good value for money offers a domestic producer Max-Top. The products have high strength characteristics. It is presented in a classic palette of cool colors, complemented by splashes of color or chaotic patterns. Buy Countertops made of artificial stone can be from 7.5 thousand. rm. m.

Overview of manufacturers of quartz stone countertops: product price

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

The American company Zodiaq takes pride of place among the leading manufacturers of products made of quartz agglomerate. It included 93% silica, and polymeric binders in the material composition. Such a structure contributes to obtaining a durable and wear resistant product with a long period of operation. A feature of the product is the unique appearance of products.

Use quartz chips of different fractions combined with polymers to create a unique composition similar to the diamond light. This product will be an exquisite addition to any room design. The average price of production of 14 thousand. rub. / m².

No less popular is the Italian company Cosentino, producing products made of artificial stone with high strength and decorative characteristics. Feature antibacterial protection products is the surface which is added to the raw fine particles of silver. For these inclusions is not darkened when contacted with water, they are covered with superfine glass sheath, which greatly improves the quality of the artificial stone. Price starts from the tops 9 thousand. rub. per m².

Israeli company manufactures Caesarstone agglomerate, which includes 94% silica fume. Products are presented in a variety of colors and unexpected textural variations. The use of special additives, dyes creates shades as close to natural. product price starts from 7,5 thousand. rub.

Czech Techinistone manufacturer produces smooth polished granulate improved hardness and high mechanical strength. The main advantage of the material is to keep the same design on all products specific model. The price of artificial stone countertops starts at 7 thousand. rub.

Quartz agglomerate from the Italian brand Plaza Stone combines good quality and reasonable cost. The composition of the material includes up to 96% granite and quartz chips, whereby the product has a maximum strength, wear resistance and durability. countertops cost an average of 12 thousand. rub.

Countertops for the kitchen made of artificial stone

Kitchen worktops is the main working surface associated with cooking. It is exposed to moisture, grease, soot, corrosive chemicals. Therefore, the surface of the special requirements. She must be:

• durable;
• water-resistant;
• reliable;
• durable;
• heat-resistant;
• resistant to mechanical and corrosive influences;
• able to easily and quickly cleaned without losing the original appearance.

All of the above requirements corresponds to an artificial stone, which is the most suitable type of countertops for the kitchen. In addition to performance, an important factor that affects the choice of material, is aesthetics. Countertops for the kitchen made of natural stone is small assortment of colors and patterns. Besides very difficult to pick up the two pieces of granite or marble, with the same pattern, so the surface of several boards would not seem monolithic. It will be visible seams and joints.

Kitchen worktop of artificial stone can be made in any color, shape and design of the decorative surface. When choosing a product, you can find products imitating stone, wood, metal and other materials. Plates from the same collection are of the same pattern, so the seams and joints on the table invisible, and products from acrylic they simply do not. The cost of these products is much lower than the natural counterpart. Buy inexpensive countertop made of artificial stone can be from 6.5 thousand. rub.

Countertops made of artificial stone in the bathroom room

Artificial stone is ideal for the manufacture of furniture for the bathroom, including countertops. Due to the lack of hygroscopicity is a hygienic material, which is important for such a specific room. Artificial stone is inert and non-toxic material which is at any temperature is not inclined to the evolution of harmful vapors.

In an environment of high humidity product of acrylic it is the best option because characterized by high moisture resistance and does not swell the water. During the manufacture of artificial stone products polished front side, which makes the surface brightness and luster.

Products made of quartz material characterized by strength and presentable, acrylic - complex manifold lines. Today, you can order a worktop made of artificial stone of any shape, which brings to the interior rooms individuality and style.

The product undemanding in care: it is sufficient periodically to wipe the surface with a damp cloth using a non-abrasive detergent.

Acrylic can be made not only for the bathroom countertop. Artificial stone sink any form can be carried out, which will create the perfect ensemble of the furniture in the room.

In small rooms can be arranged with countertop sink in the corner, it will take a minimum of space and is very convenient to use. It is interesting and at the same time functionally looks like a multi-level model, which would be the best solution for families with young children.

Useful advice!In the wash-basin, located below the table top, it is possible to wash small pets.

Manufacture of countertops made of artificial stone with their hands

Production of artificial stone surfaces is a complex and multi-step process that requires expensive equipment and tooling is unrealistic to reproduce at home. However, to make the countertop with his own hands as possible using injection molding technology. Here we need a minimum of equipment.

Creation of artificial stone with their hands in the formwork is carried out, which is collected on a smooth glass or metal surface. Made template for future surface of a sheet of particle board is mounted on the assembly bench. To put it up against the wall of chipboard strips, which are mounted on the abutments hotmelt then removed pattern.

The formwork is cleaned of dust and coated with a thin uniform layer of wax which is used to prevent the adhesion of the acrylic liquid composition. According to the instructions for the manufacture of liquid rock performed the production of feed mixtures. In certain ratio mixed acrylic gel, mineral aggregates and hardener. Using spray-gun nozzle with a large liquid mixture applied to the casing inner surface layer is not more than 1 mm. After drying, the surface is applied to the second ball 3 mm thick.

The second step consists in pouring the acrylic resin layer into the form of 5 mm. Surface is leveled with a spatula. Previously made of chipboard template cut to a 6 mm perimeter thereof also cleaned corner edges. The model is placed on the filled layer is acrylic. It set the load so that the pattern is not completely squeezed out by a resin. After 30 minutes the load is removed, and then the pouring of the second layer of acrylic resin so that it fills all the gaps between the edges of the formwork sheet and particle board, forming edge countertops. After 24 hours the formwork is removed, the product is ground and polished. The cost of the artificial stone countertops will be much lower than the price of the factory and the product will be 3.5 thousand on average. rub. / m².

Based on numerous reviews, artificial stone countertops are in the ranking of top surfaces, which, thanks good technical, operational and aesthetic characteristics, are used in bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, cafes and restaurants. Characterized by the diversity of colors and textures, products perfectly fit into any interior space.