A detailed overview of all the pros and cons of countertops made ​​of artificial stone

Natural materials are quite expensive, so the high demand of their imitation.Naturally, when choosing one or another variety of such products must take into account the conditions under which it will operate.When it comes to the worktop made of artificial stone, in most cases, as it meant working part of the kitchen units, though any table, not just dinner, this is a constructive "element".

Every person - their assessment criteria and division typical countertop properties to "pros" and "cons."As the saying goes, "to whom it sweeter."Let us consider the general characteristics and features of table tops that mimic natural materials, and the conclusions which it is chosen, the reader will do it.

By the way, not everyone understands that the phrase is - artificial stone - generalized.Such materials industry produces a large assortment.For example, concrete - a brilliant representative of this group.But the options for countertops is only two - acrylic and composite stones.

therefore consider their main advantages (they are very similar), and shortcomings should be noted separately, as they are specific.But first a brief about what kind of materials.

Acrylic Stone - polymer formation on the basis of the smallest fractions of mineral substances, "bound" acrylic resin + coloring agent introduced into the mixture.Not to be confused with acrylic, is the raw material for the production of sinks, bathtubs and so on.

«Composite» .Although the move is more often used his other name - agglomerate.Differences few.Firstly - polyester resins are used (epoxy).Secondly, as crumbs - fine grinding of marble, granite or quartz fillers with the addition of small fractions (typically glass, rinse aid).Well, of course - coloring components, as well as for acrylic.

advantages of artificial stone

about things like attraction, variety of colors, and the like will not mention.Each is able to evaluate yourself.But what are the pros from the practical, "operational" standpoint, you need to consider.

High strength .This parameter is composite countertops in the 1st place.Regarding the acrylic claim in full is impossible.If you overdo it, such as meat cutting, it is possible to cut the working part of the table even with a sharp knife, not to mention the ax.But to break, break off at the inaccurate reference edge just will not work.

lack of joints (and subsequently cracks) in the table top.Manufacturing process involves pouring the prepared mass in the desired shape (in size), thereby obtaining a monolithic structure (the technology described in detail here).Even if the countertop is assembled from parts (a surface with complex geometry), the connection becomes so dense that the gap completely invisible.Although in this respect, much depends on the professionalism of the master, and the quality of the joint sealing.

Moisture Resistance .This is especially important for areas such as bathrooms and kitchens.For example, a countertop made of MDF or particle board (one of the cheapest options) under these conditions has a limited "resource".Whatever the surface or it has been protected (film), but the gradual absorption and accumulation of moisture in the structure of the material can not be avoided.Liquid penetrate everywhere, and primarily in the locations of fasteners.

No risk of biological "pollution» .Materials, which is composed of wood (namely, they are used in the manufacture of low-end models countertops), characterized by a porous structure.It is in these microcavities accumulate a variety of bacteria."Composite" and acrylic - monoliths, and that's it.

Resistance to chemicals category "corrosive".Here again, the leaders of "composite".

Long service.In this regard, any costs for the acquisition (production) to be quite justified.

Disadvantages acrylic

easily damaged , but the removal of scratches - sometimes big "headache".Even with the existing methods and "repair" materials is not always successful.At least, for self-realization process is quite difficult.Although small lesions is easy to restore the kind of banal polishing defective part.It is this negative limits hue choice for countertops.It is believed that in terms of "stealth" scratch rather beige and gray colors.

not tolerate high temperatures .For example, put on a table hot dishes (kettle there, a pot) is quite risky.In the best case - a dark spot in the worst - nodules on the surface.

difficulty in reconciling drawings in the assembly of the individual fragments countertops.For example, for the base of a complex configuration, angular designs and so on.

Disadvantages "composite»

• big weight.Before purchasing a countertop, you need to think about the structure.It is clear that for a small coffee table is better to stay on the acrylic.
• High density structure causes the processing and assembly difficulty, especially when you want to fit filigree.
• Several complex care as "composite" does not tolerate exposure to abrasives.To clean these surfaces can not be different brushes.Get scratched over time, make a countertop unattractive, it loses one of its main advantages - shine.Restoring the original form is possible only with the use of special equipment.This will require major repair costs.

General disadvantages of artificial stone countertops

• complexity of self-treatment, and "design".Only a simple household tools are not enough.
• high cost.Buy quality products, not fake, not everyone can afford.With a thickness of 12 mm per 1 rmwill have to pay not less than 6450 rubles.Plus - additional items such as cuts, inserts, and so on antiperelivy.The price of one, the simplest element starts from 490 rubles.

Perhaps the article noted, not all the pros and cons of artificial stone in relation to the table top, but for the general understanding of the issue and the advisability of buying enough.