What is Sintered Stone? A Comprehensive Overview
When choosing a countertop material, homeowners often consider durability, maintenance, and aesthetics. Sintered stone is an emerging option that offers exceptional strength, heat and stain resistance, and a sleek, modern look. But how does it compare to traditional choices like granite, marble, and quartz? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what sintered stone is, how it’s made, its advantages and drawbacks, and whether it’s the right fit for your home.
If you have questions or need expert guidance on choosing the perfect sintered stone countertop, contact Natural Stone City today!
Sintered Stone
1. What is Sintered Stone?
Sintered stone is a non-porous, ultra-durable surface. - *Images by Lapitec.
Sintered stone is a highly durable, man-made surface material created through a process that mimics the natural formation of stone. Unlike natural stone, which is quarried from the earth, sintered stone is engineered using advanced technology that fuses natural minerals under extreme heat and pressure. The result is a non-porous, ultra-durable surface that is resistant to heat, scratches, stains, and UV exposure.
How Sintered Stone Differs from Natural and Engineered Stone
Sintered stone stands out from both natural and engineered stone due to its unique composition and manufacturing process.
Natural Stone (Granite, Marble, Quartzite):
These materials are quarried and cut into slabs. While they offer timeless beauty, they often require sealing and regular maintenance to protect against stains and moisture absorption.
Engineered Stone (Quartz):
Quartz countertops are made by combining natural quartz crystals with resins and pigments. While they are durable and non-porous, they contain synthetic binders, making them less heat-resistant than sintered stone.
Sintered Stone:
Unlike engineered quartz, sintered stone is made entirely from natural minerals without resins or synthetic binders. This makes it more heat-resistant and UV-stable, meaning it won’t fade when exposed to sunlight. This means that sintered stone is ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Composition of Sintered Stone
Sintered stone is made using a combination of natural minerals, including:
Quartz (for strength and durability)
Feldspar (enhances structure and resilience)
Silica (helps with binding and overall hardness)
Natural pigments (provide colour and design without artificial dyes)
These minerals are fused together using an advanced process called sintering, where they are subjected to extreme heat (over 1,200°C) and high pressure. This process creates a dense, non-porous surface with exceptional durability.
Key Benefits of Sintered Stone
Here are just a few of the key benefits of sintered stone:
Heat Resistance: Unlike quartz, sintered stone can withstand direct contact with hot cookware without damage.
Scratch Resistance: Its dense structure makes it highly resistant to scratches and abrasions, perfect for high-traffic areas.
Stain Resistance: The non-porous surface prevents liquids from penetrating, making it easy to clean and maintain.
UV Resistance: Unlike some engineered stones, sintered stone does not fade when exposed to sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor applications.
For a more detailed explanation of the advantages of sintered stone, check out Section 3.
Lapitec: A Leading Sintered Stone Manufacturer
Lapitec offers a wide range of colours and finishes. - *Image by Lapitec
One of the most well-known brands producing high-quality sintered stone is Lapitec. Lapitec's slabs are 100% mineral-based, free from resins, and highly durable, making them a popular choice for countertops, flooring, and even exterior cladding. Their surfaces are available in a wide range of colours and finishes, allowing homeowners and designers to achieve a high-end, natural stone look with superior performance.
Sintered stone is quickly becoming a top choice for those seeking a beautiful yet highly functional countertop material. Its combination of strength, low maintenance, and modern aesthetics makes it a versatile and long-lasting investment for any space.
2. Sintered Stone vs. Other Countertop Materials
When choosing a countertop material, it's essential to consider durability, maintenance, heat resistance, and overall aesthetics. Sintered stone has emerged as a strong contender against traditional options like granite, marble, quartz, and porcelain. Below, we compare sintered stone to these popular materials to help you determine the best fit for your space.
Sintered Stone vs. Granite
Granite requires regular sealing to protect it from staining. - *Image by MSI Surfaces
Durability:
Both sintered stone and granite are highly durable, but sintered stone has the edge in terms of scratch resistance. While granite is strong, it is still susceptible to chipping or cracking under heavy impact. Sintered stone’s uniform composition makes it even more resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance:
Granite requires regular sealing to prevent moisture and stains from penetrating its surface. Because it is a porous natural stone, spills can lead to long-term damage if not properly maintained. In contrast, sintered stone is completely non-porous, requiring no sealing and making it easier to clean.
Heat & Stain Resistance:
Both materials can withstand heat, but sintered stone is more resistant to stains due to its non-porous nature. Granite can absorb liquids, especially oils and acidic substances, which may cause discolouration over time.
Sintered Stone vs. Marble
Unlike sintered stone, marble is prone to scratches, etching, and chipping. - *Image by MSI Surfaces
Aesthetics:
Marble is prized for its luxurious, timeless beauty, with distinctive veining that adds elegance to any space. Sintered stone, however, can replicate the look of marble while offering superior durability. Many sintered stone manufacturers, including Lapitec, offer slabs that closely resemble high-end marble without the drawbacks of natural stone.
Durability:
While marble is visually stunning, it is also one of the softest natural stones, making it prone to scratches, etching, and chipping. Acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar can damage its surface. Sintered stone, on the other hand, is highly scratch-resistant and non-reactive to acids, making it a much more practical choice for high-traffic kitchens.
Cost:
Marble is typically more expensive than sintered stone, not only due to the initial cost of the slab but also because of the ongoing maintenance and sealing requirements. Sintered stone offers a similar high-end look at a lower long-term cost, thanks to its durability and ease of maintenance.
Sintered Stone vs. Quartz
Both sintered stone and quartz are non-porous. - *Image by Natural Stone City
Non-Porosity & Maintenance:
Both sintered stone and quartz are non-porous, meaning they do not require sealing and are resistant to stains. However, quartz contains resin binders, which can break down over time and make it less heat-resistant than sintered stone.
Composition:
Quartz countertops are made from a blend of natural quartz crystals and resins, whereas sintered stone is created using 100% natural minerals, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.
Lifespan & Durability:
Both materials are built to last, but sintered stone is more resistant to heat, UV rays, and scratches compared to quartz. If placed in direct sunlight over time, quartz may fade or discolour, while sintered stone remains UV-stable, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Sintered Stone vs. Porcelain
Porcelain and sintered stone are relatively comparable in cost. - *Image by MSI Surfaces
Similarities:
Sintered stone and porcelain share many characteristics, as both are created through a high-temperature manufacturing process. They are both non-porous, highly durable, and heat-resistant, making them excellent choices for countertops.
Key Differences:
Thickness Options: Sintered stone is often available in thicker slabs suitable for countertops, while porcelain slabs are typically thinner and may require additional support during installation.
Workability: Porcelain can be more brittle than sintered stone, making fabrication and edge design more challenging. Sintered stone offers greater flexibility when it comes to custom edges and detailed cuts.
Cost & Availability: While both materials are relatively comparable in cost, sintered stone is often more readily available in larger slab sizes, making it a practical choice for large countertops or seamless installations.
Final Thoughts
Sintered stone offers a winning combination of durability, low maintenance, and aesthetics, making it an excellent alternative to granite, marble, quartz, and porcelain. Whether you prioritize heat resistance, stain resistance, or long-term durability, sintered stone is a top-tier option that balances beauty with practicality.
If you're considering sintered stone countertops, contact Natural Stone City today to explore your options and find the perfect fit for your home!
3. Pros and Cons of Sintered Stone
Sintered stone can withstand high temperatures without damage. - *Image by Laptiec
Like any countertop material, sintered stone has its advantages and drawbacks. While it offers exceptional durability and low maintenance, there are also some factors to consider before choosing it for your home. Below, we break down the key pros and cons of sintered stone countertops.
Pros of Sintered Stone
Heat-Resistant:
Sintered stone can withstand high temperatures without damage, making it safe for direct contact with hot cookware. Unlike quartz, which contains resins that can burn or discolour under extreme heat, sintered stone remains unaffected by high temperatures.
Scratch-Resistant:
Thanks to its dense, mineral-based composition, sintered stone is highly resistant to scratches, chips, and abrasions. This makes it an ideal choice for busy kitchens, high-traffic areas, and commercial applications.
Stain-Resistant & Non-Porous:
Unlike natural stones like granite and marble, sintered stone is completely non-porous, meaning liquids cannot penetrate the surface. This makes it resistant to stains from coffee, wine, oil, and acidic substances, reducing the risk of discolouration over time.
UV-Resistant:
Unlike quartz, sintered stone is UV-stable, meaning it won’t fade or discolour when exposed to direct sunlight. This makes it a great choice for both indoor and outdoor applications, including outdoor kitchens and patio countertops.
Low Maintenance:
Because sintered stone is non-porous and highly durable, it requires little to no maintenance. There’s no need for sealing, special cleaners, or extensive upkeep—simply wiping it down with soap and water is enough to keep it looking like new.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable:
Sintered stone is made from 100% natural minerals and contains no resins, plastics, or synthetic binders. The manufacturing process is also more sustainable than other engineered materials, making it an eco-conscious choice for homeowners looking to reduce their environmental impact.
Cons of Sintered Stone
Higher Cost Than Some Alternatives:
While sintered stone is a long-lasting investment, it can be more expensive than materials like quartz or laminate.
However, its durability and low maintenance can offset these costs over time by reducing the need for repairs or replacements.
Challenging to Fabricate:
Sintered stone is harder to cut and shape than quartz or granite, requiring specialized tools and skilled fabricators.
This can make installation more complex and potentially increase labour costs.
Can Be Brittle in Thin Slabs:
While sintered stone is incredibly strong, very thin slabs (under 12mm) can be brittle and prone to breakage if not properly supported.
Thicker slabs or reinforced installations are recommended to prevent issues.
*Image by Lapitec
Final Thoughts
Sintered stone offers unmatched durability, resistance, and low maintenance, making it a great choice for countertops, backsplashes, and even outdoor applications. While it may come with a higher upfront cost and require expert installation, its long lifespan and ease of care make it a worthwhile investment for any home.
If you’re considering sintered stone for your next project, contact Natural Stone City today for expert guidance and high-quality slab options!
4. Cost of Sintered Stone Countertops
Sintered stone is a premium surface that is a worthwhile long-term investment. - *Image by Lapitec
When selecting a countertop material, cost is an important factor to consider. Sintered stone is a premium surface, and while it has a higher upfront cost than some materials, its exceptional durability and low maintenance make it a worthwhile long-term investment. Below, we outline the pricing of sintered stone compared to other popular countertop materials and the factors that influence its overall cost.
Price Range: How Does Sintered Stone Compare?
In Canada, the cost of sintered stone countertops typically falls within the $100–$200 CAD per square foot range, including installation. Here’s how it compares to other materials:
Sintered Stone: $100–$200 CAD per square foot
Granite: $75–$200 CAD per square foot
Quartz: $80–$180 CAD per square foot
Marble: $80–$250 CAD per square foot
While sintered stone is similarly priced to granite and quartz, it provides superior durability, stain resistance, and heat tolerance, which can reduce long-term maintenance costs. Unlike granite and marble, it never requires sealing and is resistant to scratches, stains, and heat damage, making it a more hassle-free option over time.
Factors That Affect Pricing
Several factors influence the final cost of a sintered stone countertop installation:
Brand & Manufacturer: Premium brands like Lapitec, Neolith, and Dekton may be priced higher due to advanced manufacturing techniques and unique designs.
Slab Thickness: Sintered stone is available in various thicknesses (typically 6mm, 12mm, and 20mm). Thicker slabs cost more due to increased material use and added durability.
Edge Design & Finishing: Basic straight edges are the most affordable, while bevelled, mitered, or waterfall edges require additional fabrication, increasing labour costs.
Installation Complexity: Since sintered stone is denser and harder to cut than quartz or granite, it requires specialized tools and skilled installers. This can increase installation costs, especially for intricate designs.
Customization & Special Features: Adding backsplashes, integrated sinks, or large seamless slabs can also impact the overall price.
You need to take these factors into consideration when setting your countertop budget.
Is Sintered Stone a Good Long-Term Investment?
Yes! Sintered stone is a smart long-term investment because of its exceptional durability and low maintenance requirements. Although the initial cost is higher than some other materials, its heat, stain, scratch, and UV resistance means fewer repairs, replacements, or upkeep costs over time.
No sealing is required (unlike granite and marble).
Highly resistant to stains and scratches, reducing the risk of costly damage.
UV-resistant, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces without fading.
For homeowners looking for a low-maintenance, long-lasting countertop material, sintered stone offers outstanding value.
Final Thoughts
While sintered stone countertops come with a higher initial price tag, their durability, minimal maintenance, and resistance to damage make them a cost-effective investment in the long run. If you’re considering sintered stone for your home, Natural Stone City offers expert guidance and a wide selection of high-quality slabs to fit your style and budget. Contact us today to explore your options!
5. Is Sintered Stone Right for You?
Sintered stone comes in various colours, patterns, and finishes. - *Image by Lapitec
Sintered stone countertops are a high-performance surface designed for homeowners who want a durable, low-maintenance, and stylish option. However, while it offers many advantages, it may not be the perfect fit for everyone. Below, we explore who benefits most from sintered stone, its best applications, and important considerations before making your final decision.
Who Benefits Most from Sintered Stone Countertops?
Sintered stone is ideal for:
Busy households: Its scratch, stain, and heat resistance make it perfect for families who cook often and need a surface that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Outdoor kitchen enthusiasts: Unlike quartz, sintered stone is UV-resistant, so it won’t fade or discolour when exposed to direct sunlight.
Minimalist homeowners: If you prefer a low-maintenance countertop, sintered stone requires no sealing and is easy to clean.
Design-conscious individuals: Available in various colours, patterns, and finishes, it can mimic natural stone, concrete, or even wood for a modern or classic look.
Best Applications for Sintered Stone
The following are some of the best places to use sintered stone:
Kitchen countertops: It is a great option for your kitchen countertops because it is a durable, heat-resistant surface that’s perfect for meal prep and daily use.
Bathroom vanities: Its non-porous nature prevents water absorption and resists stains making it a wonderful option for bathroom vanities.
Outdoor kitchens: UV resistance makes sintered stone an excellent choice for patios and backyard cooking areas.
High-traffic areas: Sintered stone is perfect for commercial settings or homes where countertops endure heavy use.
Things to Consider Before Choosing Sintered Stone
Higher Upfront Cost: Sintered stone is a premium material, so the initial cost may be higher than quartz or some types of granite.
Installation Complexity: It requires specialized tools and experienced installers, which can add to labour costs.
Limited Edge Profiles: Due to their density and hardness, some intricate edge designs may be difficult to achieve.
Before making a final decision, it’s always best to consult with professionals who can assess your needs and recommend the right countertop material for your home. Natural Stone City’s experts can guide you through your options and help you find the perfect surface to match your lifestyle and budget. Contact us today for expert advice!
Upgrade Your Countertops with Natural Stone City
If you're looking to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom with stunning countertops, Natural Stone City is your one-stop shop. With over 1,000 slabs of different colours and styles, we have the largest selection of stone countertops in Southern Ontario.
From classic whites and greys to bold and exotic patterns, our collection offers something for every taste. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff can help you choose the perfect countertop to complement your home's unique style.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and bring your dream kitchen or bathroom to life.
What Our Customers Are Saying…
"Have used Natural Stone City 3 times and looking forward to a 4th time in the foreseeable future! Thank you Denisa and Donna for making our experience seamless and flawless. Big shout out the installation team! You were friendly, professional and efficient. We enjoy the time you spent to make sure everything was perfect. Also a big thank you to George! Your measurements were spot on. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟"
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