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Also known as quartz, this is a beautiful and low-maintenance material. Engineered stone is also the perfect combination for a sleek kitchen. This is a beginner’s guide for homeowners looking for alternative home renovation solutions.

It’s not surprising when people look for ways to revamp their homes without compromising the costs. Eco-friendly choices have increasingly become the norm. And that includes home renovation materials as well. Stone-cut slabs may be aesthetically pleasing, but it’s also one of the most expensive.

If you’re not up for pricey marble or granite, there are factory-made composite materials available that you can consult your contractor with. Like Handshaker Construction, for example. We are a company proud to present seasoned customer service and more. Providing the best service is our top commitment, with a wide range of home improvement options. Not only do we ensure that your home is better than ever, but Handshaker Construction also boasts the best plumbing fixture installation. You can guarantee that our services will serve your interests best.

Our dedication to client satisfaction is the reason we made it this far. Whether you want a whole and partial kitchen renovation in Cincinnati, OH, we got it covered. All you need to do is contact us right away.

Handshaker Construction is unique in its own right since we stand behind quality above everything else. And if you’re considering replacing your kitchen counter with engineered stone, we are willing to help you. Before installing them in your kitchen, you may use this as a simple guide.

What is engineered stone?

In the countertop industry, countless variations have been created to substitute organic yet expensive materials. An adhesive bind this composite material molded from crushed stone. Then it’s doused with many other applications before it’s ready and polished. Slabs made out of quartz crystals are bound by resin. Engineered stone also has a similar look to natural stone slabs. Only the uniform color and pattern are what make the material distinctive.

The benefits of using engineered stone

Because of its likeness to natural stone, this engineered material became a popular alternative for many homeowners. It still captures the look and feel of natural stone successfully. In the latter’s case, however, there are stark indications. For instance, the color, hue, and patterns from all the rock formations on the earth contributed to the uniqueness of the stone.

In manufactured materials such as quartz, those characteristics found in natural stone are not evident. Each slab’s appearance contains fewer variations. However, they remain a kitchen staple that delivers high-quality surfaces for countertops. As for the color varieties, engineered stone can be infused with pigmentation.

Another benefit to remember is how nonporous quartz can get. Unlike its expensive counterparts, it doesn’t contain any small holes or pores, which allows moisture. Such a trait is detrimental to natural materials because it can degrade faster. The best thing about quartz is that it doesn’t need extra sealing. Moisture wouldn’t seep through its tight composition. Thus it’s the perfect low-maintenance kitchen countertop. Additionally, the nonporous feature of engineered countertops is advantageous. It is resistant to fungi and bacteria growth, making it ideal for commercial establishments like restaurants.

The downsides of engineered countertops

Being fungi and bacteria-proof is suitable for a slab material. But there’s still a downside to using quartz as well. If you opt for one, it’s crucial to know that it’s not as heat-resistant as natural stone. Due to its stone and resin mix-up, putting a hot pan directly onto it may cause some damage. It can weaken the quality of the material, reducing its duration.

Always put a heating pad or trivet to prevent surface damage and cracking. Ensure to cool off appliances like toasters, microwave ovens, and pressure cookers prone to intense heating after a short while. And if you’re planning to use quartz for your outdoor kitchen, you might as well don’t. Most manufacturers void their warranty if you choose to do it.

Pigments mixed into the material eventually fade with prolonged exposure to sunlight. It might even cause discoloration to the resin, as it was the tool used to bind the stone together. Only some brands have been able to make outdoor-type quartz that is safe to use under external weather conditions. They also manufactured products that are fade-proof and won’t undergo yellowing.

Final thoughts

Natural and engineered stones are both great to use in your kitchen. You can always go right with both anyway, and both materials are durable, widely used, and come in various styles. For better options, it’s best to talk to Handshaker Construction. We can better guide you in choosing your home renovations within budget.