What is Sintered Stone?

What is Sintered Stone?

Sintered Stone has become a favourite among designers and homeowners alike due to its versatility, aesthetic appeal, practicality, and affordability. Renowned brands use this innovative material for applications ranging from kitchen countertops to swimming pool tiling. But what exactly is Sintered Stone?

How is Sintered Stone Made?

Sintered Stone is created using cutting-edge technology that replicates the natural processes forming stones like granite or marble over millennia. However, unlike natural stone, which takes thousands of years to develop, Sintered Stone slabs are produced in just a few hours.

Carefully selected minerals and stone particles, similar to those found in porcelain or granite, are subjected to intense heat and pressure, mimicking the conditions deep within the Earth’s crust. This process permanently bonds the particles without the need for resins or artificial bonding agents, resulting in a robust, uniform material.

Benefits of Sintered Stone

Sintered Stone offers an array of advantages, combining the beauty of natural stone with modern durability and ease of use. Key benefits include:

  • Durable: Resistant to scratches, chips, and other damage.
  • Weatherproof: Withstands extreme heat, cold, and UV exposure.
  • Waterproof: Completely non-porous, making it stain proof and easy to clean.
  • Hygienic: Food-safe and resistant to bacteria growth.
  • Low Maintenance: Requires no sealing or specialised upkeep.

Visually, it can be almost indistinguishable from natural stone.

Uses of Sintered Stone

The versatility of Sintered Stone makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, rivaling natural stone in its adaptability. Popular uses include:

  • Furniture tops
  • Kitchen worktops
  • Bathroom vanities
  • Flooring and stairs
  • Wall cladding (interior and exterior)
  • Patios and outdoor paving
  • Fireplace surrounds
  • Swimming pool tiling
  • Spas and wet rooms

Environmental Impact of Sintered Stone

Sintered Stone is often considered a more environmentally responsible choice compared to other materials. Key sustainability highlights include:

  • Natural Composition: Made entirely from natural materials, free of harmful chemicals.
  • Recyclable: Fully recyclable at the end of its lifecycle, reducing landfill waste.
  • Low Resin Use: Unlike engineered stones such as quartz, it contains no synthetic resins, minimising associated emissions.
  • Efficient Production: While requiring high heat, the sintering process is energy-efficient as the materials are bonded without melting.
  • Use of Recycled Materials: Some manufacturers, like Neolith, incorporate recycled content into their products.
  • Longevity: Its durability and UV resistance extend its lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
  • Low Maintenance: Non-porous and stainproof, it requires minimal cleaning, reducing water and chemical use.

Although the environmental impact varies depending on manufacturing practices and raw material sources, Sintered Stone remains a durable and sustainable option for modern design and construction needs.