The artificial stone industry is developing rapidly, with more and more products and varieties introduced on the market. Quartz stone slab and sintered stone are the two most popular and most easily confused choices. Both options have their set of pros and cons. Because of this, many people are hesitant to decide between quartz stone slabs and sintered stone. To make an educated decision, you are suggested to read this comparison of both options.
Sintered Stone and Quartz Stone – Overview
Before discussing any relative qualities of quartz stone slab and sintered stone, it is essential to define both choices to clarify any misconceptions. They are both engineered materials, but their primary difference lies in their composition.
Sintered stone is a type of artificial stone that appears similar to artificial quartz stone. However, its filler is a natural crushed stone. In other words, the stone material is reused in its manufacturing process in a controlled environment. It is manufactured through the process known as sintering.
Quartz stone, on the other hand, consists of three key ingredients, i.e., crushed natural quartz, polymeric resin binder, and coloring pigment. By combining these ingredients, a slab is formed and then fashioned into a surface for installation.
In short, quartz is over 90% natural in terms of its content, while sintered stone is all-natural.
Sintered Stone Vs Quartz Stone Slab
Sintered stone and quartz stone slabs are similar in some ways and different in others. Comparing these key aspects will help you determine which one is better for your specific needs:
- Tenacity
Tenacity refers to a material’s resistance to bending, breaking, or deforming. When it comes to this aspect, both materials have high compressive strength. But quartz stone is a bit better since it contains resin that can absorb part of the impact force to some extent.
- Thickness
In terms of thickness, quartz stone is a better option. Usually, sintered stone slabs are 3~20 mm thick, while quartz stone slabs can reach 8~30 mm. As mentioned above, sintered stone is too brittle to be sintered to a thicker slab. Quartz, produced by pressing, heating, and solidifying, can be processed to a higher thickness. So, if you need a thicker slab, quartz is a better choice.
- Durability
This is another area where both materials are similar. The hardness of a slab typically translates into its durability. On the Mohs hardness scale of 1-10, both quartz stone slab and sintered stone rank pretty high (6-8). This means they are both rigid materials and very resistant to normal wear and tear.
- Absorbency
Both sintered stone and quartz stone slabs are non-porous. This similarity means neither of these materials needs a sealer to be applied during installation. Another benefit that both options offer is that they are both stain resistant. In the case of both materials, liquids stay on the surface where you can easily wipe them.
- Price
Sintered stone is relatively more expensive than quartz because of its increased all-natural composition, hardness, tenacity, and outdoor application use. Quartz is a more wallet-friendly option in comparison.
Overall, both options have many similarities and differences in various aspects. Sintered stone is typically a more suitable option for outdoor applications. Quartz stone slab, on the other hand, is more suitable for kitchen countertops, worktops, and other indoor applications.
BITTO Carrara Quartz Slab is What You’re Looking For
Quartz has wide varieties. For kitchen worktops and countertops, you can go right by choosing quartz stone slab material. Carrara quartz is popular because of its beautiful grey veining, non-porous surface, and other vital characteristics. BITTO is a seasoned surface manufacturer based in China that offers quality Carrara quartz stone slab that is ideal for most indoor applications.
Here are some reasons to choose Popular Classic Carrara Quartz Slab BQ992:
- Beautiful white quartz stone slab with grey veins makes it an aesthetically-pleasing choice
- Stain-resistant, non-porous surface
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Durable. Strong resistance to bacteria, corrosion, and heat
- Super hard with an elegant polish surface finish. Suitable for flooring, wash basin, background wall, kitchen countertop, and more
- 15-year warranty
Conclusion
The sintered stone vs. quartz stone slab comparison highlights many similarities and differences. Each product has its own set of advantages, and it is suitable for specific applications. For indoor kitchen worktops, and countertops, quartz is an ideal choice. For quality products like Popular Classic Carrara Quartz Slab BQ992, calacatta gold quartz slab, and more, you can browse the large selection of BITTO.
Established in 2001, BITTO manufactures and distributes high-quality surface materials for the world of architecture and design. The certified products from the brand are sold globally and offer great value for money thanks to their enhanced quality, performance, and features. From quartz stone slabs to solid surface materials, all of BITTO’s products are highly scratch-resistant, low maintenance, hygienic, easy to clean, and durable. Visit the company’s website to view all product categories, or contact them if you need help choosing the suitable surface material for your project.
