Sintered Stone Slabs

Sintered stone slabs offer the perfect fusion of natural beauty and engineered performance. These slabs have been precision-crafted to create surfaces that are both beautiful and incredibly durable – perfect for busy kitchens, elegant bathrooms, and more. Sintered stone is known for its ability to resist stains, scratches, and heat. Explore our collection and see how sintered stone can make a practical and attractive addition to any space.

What is sintered stone?

What is sintered stone? Sintered stone is an ultra-compact man-made product created to meet the demands of modern living. It’s made from natural minerals and stone particles fused under extreme heat and pressure. This unique process gives sintered stone exceptional strength and density, making it resistant to stains, scratches, and heat – ideal choices for kitchen benchtops, bathroom vanity surfaces, and flooring. With the appearance of natural stone but with enhanced durability, sintered stone offers the best of both worlds: beauty and practicality for both interior and exterior applications.

How is sintered stone made?

What is sintered stone made of? The manufacturing process of sintered stone involves combining fine natural minerals and stone particles with natural pigments to achieve the desired colour and pattern. This mixture is then subjected to extremely high temperatures and pressure, imitating the natural formation process of stone over thousands of years but in a much shorter timeframe. The result is a dense, highly resilient material with superior technical characteristics. This innovative process allows for the creation of large-format slabs that are ideal for a wide range of applications, from kitchen countertops to exterior wall cladding, offering durability and a polished finish.

What is a sintered stone used for?

Sintered stone is a highly versatile material suited to various applications due to its resistance to heat, stains, and scratches. Its durability and aesthetic appeal make it suitable for kitchen benchtops, bathroom vanities, wall cladding, floors, and more. Made of natural minerals and colours, it integrates seamlessly into any interior design, from modern to traditional. Its superior UV-resistant characteristics also make it a preferred choice for outdoor applications, standing up well against the elements.

Sintered stone countertops

Offering more than just a flat surface, sintered stone countertops are a practical yet stylish addition to any kitchen. They stand up to heat, stains, and scratches without sacrificing their sleek, polished finish. These countertops come in an array of colours and designs, providing a durable solution that does not compromise on style. They are especially appropriate in homes where the kitchen is the heart of activity, proving that high-use areas can also be beautifully designed. Is sintered stone good for kitchen use? Absolutely – sintered stone benchtops deliver exceptional performance for busy Australian households.

Sintered stone bathroom vanities

In the bathroom, where humidity and spills are common, sintered stone bathroom vanities stand out as an exceptional option. The resistance of this material to moisture and chemicals guarantees it stays pristine and hygienic, supporting its longevity to align with any décor, whether it’s minimalist or luxurious. Sintered stone bathroom vanities remain a top choice for bathroom makeovers. This blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal ensures that elegance and efficiency coexist beautifully. The durability and stain-resistant nature of sintered stone make it a wise investment for any bathroom, providing designs to fit the demands of everyday use.

Sintered stone wall cladding

Elevating interiors more than wall cladding creates within a space a sense of luxury and design character. From sleek designs and bold tile patterns to creating a more grainy concept or installing a seamless modern feature wall, sintered stone wall cladding transforms ordinary spaces into extraordinary ones. The resistance to fading and environmental damage guarantees long-lasting beauty. Sintered stone cladding offers a unique way to personalise spaces with various finishes and hues, making every surface a testament to innovative design.

Sintered stone flooring

For flooring that withstands the test of time and traffic, sintered stone flooring is unmatched. It’s the foundation for spaces that need to be both beautiful and functional. Despite its toughness against signs of wear and scratches, it provides a wide, elegant surface. It’s also a top tier for high-end interior design or contemporary patterns, and sintered stone flooring is a resilient choice that supports diverse interior themes, elevating the look and feel of any room.

SINTERED STONE FIRE SURROUND

Surrounds crafted from sintered stone offer functionality with elegance. As a material known for its heat resistance, it ensures that slabs not only withstand frequent heat but also complement the property’s aesthetic. The variety in finishes and colours provides ample room for customisation, making each fireplace a unique design element. Sintered stone slabs are a standout in the Australian market, proving that practical solutions can also enhance the visual appeal of a space.

Pros and cons of sintered stone

When considering sintered stone for your next project, it’s important to weigh its advantages and limitations to make an informed decision. Here’s a breakdown of the sintered stone pros and cons:

Pros

Exceptional Durability: Sintered stone stands out for its exceptional durability. It’s highly resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and surfaces that see heavy use. Sintered stone durability makes it perfect for busy kitchens and commercial spaces.

Low Maintenance: Unlike natural stones that may require sealing, sintered stone is non-porous and easy to clean, requiring minimal upkeep to maintain its appearance over the years.

Versatility: With its various range of finishes and colours, sintered stone offers unmatched versatility in design. Whether you’re going for a modern or traditional look, it can be tailored to fit any style, making it suitable for benchtops, splashbacks, flooring, and more.

Environmentally Friendly: Sintered stone is considered an environmentally friendly option. The manufacturing process is designed to be eco-friendly, and its longer lifespan compared to other materials, making it an eco-responsible choice for sustainable living.

CONS

Cost: The initial investment in sintered stone can be higher than some other materials. This is due to its characteristics and the manufacturing process it undergoes. However, its durability and long lifespan can offset this initial cost over time.

Installation: Installing sintered stone requires specialised knowledge and tools due to its high resistance nature. It may be challenging to cut to fit the stone into smaller areas or shapes and work with experienced professionals.

Limited Repair Options: Unlike some materials, sintered stone can be difficult to repair. The material’s consistent nature means that scratches and damage might require the replacement of entire sections.

SINTERED STONE VS. OTHER STONES

Compared to other stones, sintered stone offers superior durability and resistance to heat, stains, and scratches, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications. Its manufacturing process results in more uniformity and more flexibility than natural stone when it comes to colours and patterns. While natural stones like marble or granite can offer unique natural variations, sintered stone excels when it comes to consistent aesthetics and practical performance. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right material for your specific needs.

SINTERED STONE VS. MARBLE

Sintered stone vs marble is a common comparison for homeowners. Sintered stone is more durable and resistant to stains and scratches compared to marble, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas. Unlike marble, which can etch or require sealing, sintered stone’s non-porous surface means lower maintenance. Marble offers unique natural patterns that sintered stone imitates with impressive accuracy. If you love marble’s aesthetic but worry about maintenance, sintered stone delivers similar beauty with enhanced practicality.

SINTERED STONE VS. QUARTZ

When comparing sintered stone vs quartz, both offer excellent durability. Sintered stone surpasses quartz in terms of heat resistance and UV stability, making it suitable for outdoor spaces where quartz might fade. Both materials are non-porous and resistant to stains, but sintered stone provides a wider range of finishes and thicknesses. Sintered stone vs quartz countertops comes down to application—for outdoor kitchens or areas with direct sunlight, sintered stone is the superior choice.

SINTERED STONE VS. PORCELAIN

Sintered stone vs porcelain is often asked since both are engineered materials. While both offer durability and low maintenance, sintered stone generally provides greater density and strength for benchtop applications. Porcelain tiles work beautifully for walls and floors, while sintered stone slabs excel for countertops requiring seamless large-format installations. Both resist stains and heat, but sintered stone’s manufacturing process creates a denser, more resilient surface ideal for high-impact kitchen use.

SINTERED STONE VS. GRANITE

Sintered stone vs granite presents different strengths. Sintered stone and granite both offer durability and heat resistance, but they differ in composition and performance. Sintered stone is completely non-porous, while granite requires periodic sealing to prevent staining. Granite offers authentic natural beauty with unique mineral patterns, while sintered stone provides consistent aesthetics and superior stain resistance. For busy Sydney kitchens where low maintenance matters, sintered stone often wins.

SINTERED STONE VS. ENGINEERED STONE

Sintered stone vs engineered stone both offer modern solutions for durable surfaces, yet they differ in composition and performance. Sintered stone is created through a process of extreme heat and pressure, resulting in a highly durable, stain-resistant material. Engineered stone, often composed of quartz, is more prone to heat damage and requires more careful use. While both materials are low maintenance and offer a wide variety of finishes and patterns, sintered stone offers superior UV resistance and heat tolerance, making it a popular choice for indoor countertops and outdoor applications.

HOW TO CARE & MAINTAIN YOUR SINTERED STONE SLABS

Cleaning and maintaining sintered stone is straightforward, ensuring your surfaces remain beautiful and durable over time. Here are key points to consider:

Daily Cleaning: Use a damp cloth or sponge with mild soap and water to clean the surface. This simple method is usually enough to keep your sintered stone looking fresh.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: While sintered stone is resistant to chemicals, it’s best to use pH-neutral cleaners to ensure you’re not exposing the stone to potential damage over time.

Stain Prevention: For stubborn stains, a non-abrasive cleaner is recommended. Apply the cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it away gently.

Heat Resistance: Although sintered stone is heat resistant, it’s advisable to use trivets or pads under hot pots and pans to maintain a level of care and reduce any risk of damage from extreme temperatures.

Cutting: Use a cutting board instead of cutting directly on the surface to maintain the surface’s aesthetic and reduce any risk of damage from sharp utensils.

Heavy Objects: Be cautious with heavy objects. Stone can withstand several impacts, dropping heavy items on the surface can cause cracks or chips.

Annual Checks: Regularly check for any signs of wear or damage. Early detection can help maintain the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your sintered stone surfaces.

AVERAGE COST OF SINTERED STONE

How much does sintered stone cost? The average cost of sintered stone can vary widely based on factors such as thickness, finish, and brand. Generally, sintered stone price ranges from moderate to high, reflecting the material’s durability and versatile design options. Sintered stone cost in Australia typically starts around $400-600 per square metre installed, though premium brands and complex installations can exceed this. While the upfront cost may be higher than some alternatives, the long-term savings in maintenance and longevity make it a valuable investment for both residential and commercial spaces. Visit our showroom for accurate sintered stone benchtop cost quotes based on your specific project requirements.

INSTALLATION AND DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

When considering sintered stone for your project, it’s important to keep in mind both installation and design considerations. Ensure that the installation team has experience with sintered stone, as it requires specific tools and techniques. In terms of design, take advantage of the material’s versatility to select a finish and colour that complements your space. Consider the lighting in your room, as it can affect the appearance of texture and colour, and plan for seam placement in large areas to maintain aesthetic continuity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the neolith sintered stone?

Neolith sintered stone is a premium, high-performance surface material made from natural minerals compacted under intense heat and pressure. This process results in neolith being a highly durable, resistant product ideal for various applications, including countertops, flooring, and wall claddings. Neolith is renowned for its wide range of textures and colours, offering both aesthetic versatility and functional benefits like heat, stain, and scratch resistance.

How much does sintered stone cost?

The cost of sintered stone can vary widely based on factors such as thickness, finish, and the complexity of the installation. On average, prices might range from moderate to high, reflecting the material’s superior qualities and durability. While initially more costly than some alternatives, its longevity and low maintenance needs can provide cost savings over time, making it a valuable investment for both residential and commercial spaces.

How does sintered stone compare with quartz countertops?

Sintered stone offers greater heat resistance and UV stability than quartz, making it a better choice for outdoor installations and areas exposed to direct sunlight. Both materials are non-porous and stain-resistant, but sintered stone typically provides a broader selection of designs and has higher scratch resistance. Quartz may offer a more uniform appearance, which is a plus for certain design preferences.

How does sintered stone compare with granite worktops?

While both sintered stone and granite are durable and beautiful, sintered stone stands out for its consistency in appearance, superior stain and heat resistance, and minimal maintenance requirements. Granite, being a natural stone, requires regular sealing to prevent stains and can vary greatly in pattern and colour. Sintered stone, on the other hand, offers a more predictable and uniform aesthetic, making it easier to match with interior designs.

How to choose the right sintered stone countertop for your space

Choosing the right sintered stone countertop involves considering your space’s design aesthetic, functional needs, and maintenance preferences. Look for colours and textures that complement your room’s decor, and consider finishes that align with your usage requirements—for instance, matte finishes for a natural look or polished for a sleek, modern feel. Given its durability and resistance to elements, think about how the space will be used to select a countertop that not only looks great but also stands up to your lifestyle.