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It takes ~ 2 minutes to readAn artificial stone countertop is a rather popular type of surface nowadays. Of all the requirements for an ideal countertop, it is stone that can satisfy buyers in terms of the largest number of indicators. Its most important advantages are strength and durability. Composite materials of the latest generation look great in appearance and have good decorative possibilities.
The pebble countertop has a fairly rich palette of colors. Another advantage of the material for artificial stone countertops is that it is monolithic and smooth, without gaps and joints.
Types of artificial stone
Acrylic stone
Acrylic is a synthetic polymer invented in the 60s of the last century. It contains mineral chips (aluminum trihydrate), paint and acrylic resins (plexiglass).
Acrylic stone countertops perfectly imitate all natural species found in nature. They have a smooth and uniform texture. They do not even have microscopic pores in which bacteria can settle. And the joints are polished with practically no gaps. Therefore, in terms of sanitary qualities, these work tables are the best.
Such surfaces will not fade over time. Acrylic is warmer than natural stone, as it adapts to the temperature of the room and is much more pleasant to the touch. During production, you can embody any fantasy in acrylic, round, non-standard or curved shapes. For lovers of creativity, this material can not be found better.
The main disadvantage of acrylic stone is that it is easy to scratch. If the surface is glossy and monochromatic, then defects and abrasions will be visible on it. The most easily soiled colors are dark: black, brown, gray. Acrylic is scratched, but also restored. Moreover, it can be polished without dismantling, right on the spot (the entire table is leveled). Almost all firms that manufacture this material are engaged in polishing.
Acrylic stone is shock-resistant and susceptible to acids. The production time takes at least 3 weeks. The most reasonable decision when buying acrylic countertops is light shades. Scratches, stains or blotches are invisible on them, especially if there is a "pebble" pattern. Also, acrylic does not withstand high temperatures. A hot frying pan recklessly placed on it will leave a white stain behind.
Quartz (agglomerate)
Nine-tenths of the total volume is crushed chips of natural stone (quartz). It can be in the form of sand or larger fractions, and the rest is glass particles and organic dyes. All this is united by polyester resin.
Such surfaces look impressive and expensive, like natural stone. Proven manufacturers have up to 40 different colors. But the agglomerate is cheaper. The slabs themselves are dense and heavy, difficult to handle and difficult to install.
The agglomerate cannot be scratched. On such a table, you can even cut food without a cutting board. It is allowed to put hot dishes on a high-quality agglomerated worktop for a short time. But before that, you should look at the certificate for the product.
Despite its strength, the agglomerate is afraid of abrasives. From them microscratches appear on the countertop, and over time, the stone shine disappears. It is possible to polish agglomerated quartz, but it is quite difficult with special equipment.
The sinter service life is at least 10 years. In terms of its operational characteristics, such a stone is an order of magnitude better than acrylic.
The planes can be not only smooth, but also matte, and even textured. Quartz is made in sheets-slabs (so-called slabs), so there are seams on very long surfaces (more than 2.5 meters). Only suitable for simple geometric shapes.
Choosing a countertop for the kitchen
- In the contract, carefully read all the clauses and operating conditions. Only then can you use the working surface for a long time.
- Artificial stone is ideal for spacious kitchen interiors. But in Khrushchev, it will look rather inappropriate.
- Quartz can be 12 mm to 20 mm thick. The wider the slab, the heavier it is. Therefore, it is imperative to strengthen the frame of the kitchen furniture. In some cases, wall reinforcement is required.
Operating tips
- Immediately after installing the countertop, rub it with a protective agent. It will enhance the water-repellent properties of the table.
- As a permanent care, it is recommended to use neutral detergents, without acids or alcohol. Moreover, no more than 2 times a month.
- Cleaning of coatings with hard brushes and sponges is undesirable.
- Do not use chemical or abrasive products on acrylic countertops. Food should only be cut on a cutting board. Do not place hot dishes or drop heavy objects on the table. Strong chemicals (oven cleaner, acids) should be washed off immediately with soapy water.
- On quartz surfaces, a hot object can be placed on the countertop for a short time, and the rest of the time, use a cooker rack. Dark glossy finishes will show fingerprints and water droplets.
- According to customer reviews, people who are sharp, with an excitable nervous system (for example, choleric people) should learn how to carefully put dishes on such hard tables. Because at first there may be cases of broken dishes.
Price
The only disadvantage of an artificial stone is the high price. They are much more expensive than other coatings:
- laminated MDF and chipboard,
- plastic,
- ceramics,
- stainless steel.
Only natural (granite, marble, quartz) is more expensive than artificial stone, but not much.
Acrylic prices start at $ 100 per meter. You can buy quartz surfaces from $ 150. But when buying domestic brands, you can save money.
Recommended manufacturers
About 30 world manufacturers offer all kinds of artificial stone in Moscow and Russia.
- City Stone.
One of the largest importers of quartz and acrylic surfaces in Russia. With the help of technological methods, the manufacturer guarantees the complete absence of joints and seams. Stone surfaces can be from an elegant 22 mm to a solid 150 mm. Here you can find acrylic with decorative elements, inserts and ornaments.
- HI-MACS.
The world famous company LG is also engaged in the production of acrylic surfaces. They use 3D modeling and even chairs are created using this technology, not to mention sinks and bathroom accessories. HI-MACS work tables practically do not change color when heated above 170 ° C.
- Rivers.
A fairly young company that has confidently entered the Russian market. It is their artificial stone countertops that can be found in Ikea stores (with a 25-year guarantee).
Photo: countertop made of artificial stone in the interior
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