Did you know engineered stone is being banned in Australia?
Like to know some other options for your kitchen and bathroom benchtops?
The design industry is in a time of change as the Australian government has announced the ban on engineered stones containing silica from July 1, 2024. This is due to health risks associated with its production and installation.
Unfortunately silica, which is a common component in engineered stone, is a serious occupational hazard for technicians exposed to its dust over a prolonged period of time. It is associated with serious respiratory conditions such as silicosis.
Interior designers and homeowners will subsequently be looking at different alternatives to benchtops, so let’s dive in a discover what’s on offer..
Engineered stone (like in the sample in this flat lay), will no longer be an option for homeowners from July 2024.
Marble.
A beautiful natural stone that is a luxurious choice for both benchtops and splashbacks.
PROS
Each piece is unique so your space is truly individual.
Come in various colours and veining.
Can be used behind a cooktop.
CONS
It’s one of the most expensive options.
Due to it being porous and soft, it’s prone to staining and scratching.
Requires regular maintenance.
2. Quartzite.
Another natural stone option made from metamorphic rock that offers many colours and patterns.
PROS
This natural stone is harder than marble and has a larger range of colours and patterns than granite.
It is very durable, low porous and low maintenance.
CONS
Though more affordable than marble it is one of the most expensive benchtop options.
3. Granite.
A very durable natural stone alternative with darker colour options.
PROS
Granite is much harder than both marble and quartzite making it extremely durable.
CONS
As it is porous, like the other natural stones, it requires maintenance to avoid staining.
Granite doesn’t have the lighter veining colours like marble or quartzite.
Granite is expensive at a similar price point to marble.
4. Terrazzo.
Popular through the decades, this man made material of concrete or resin mixed with chips of marble, quartz, granite or glass is a firm favourite.
PROS
Terrazzo is durable and unique.
Terrazzo offers endless possibilities with colour and appearance due to its mosaic like appearance.
CONS
It can crack if not installed correctly.
Terrazzo is porous (even when sealed) so can stain when exposed to acidic liquids.
5. Porcelain.
Porcelain is made from heating a mix of powdered china stone and white china clay at extremely high temperatures. It’s then glazed to give it the appearance of natural stone.
PROS
Porcelain is highly durable and low maintenance once installed.
This benchtop type comes in a large variety of colours and looks.
Porcelain comes in different thicknesses to suit various design styles.
CONS
The price of porcelain is comparable with natural stone. It increases in price with the thickness of the slab.
The pattern is only on the top of the porcelain, so will require a mitred edge to have patterning on the edges.
It is has a longer lead time for the extra care needed due to it’s more fragile/brittle nature (compared to engineered stone).
It may have a limited number of fabricators familiar with its installation.
6. Ultra Compact Surfaces.
A relatively recent man-made material made from a combination of glass, porcelain and quartz. Brands like Dekton and Neolith are both types of ultra compact surfaces.
PROS
This material is highly durable and heat resistant so is suitable outdoors.
It has solid patterning through the material (like engineered stone does) and can have routered and curved edges.
CONS
Ultra compact surfaces have limited patterns and colours available.
It is an expensive option with its large slab sizes compared to porcelain.
Has limited installers and fabricators, but this will change as the industry becomes more familiar with the material.
7. Solid Surface.
A more tried and tested material within the design industry. It is made from a mixture of acrylic, stone and resin poured into a mould. It is a very versatile material, with brands such as Corian, Marblo and Staron examples of solid surface.
PROS
Highly hygienic as it doesn’t have seams.
Very versatile in its design applications (for example it can be integrated into sinks).
Has different price points due to its varying thicknesses.
CONS
Can be prone to heat and chemical discolouration.
As it is softer than some other materials it is susceptible to deeper cuts on its surface.
8. Timber.
A natural material that brings instant warmth and character to a benchtop.
PROS
Suitable for many design styles and is repairable with sanding and resealing if needed.
Timber is more affordable than natural stones.
With the large variety of timber comes options of colour tones and graining.
CONS
Does require regular maintenance to prevent water discolouring.
9. Travertine.
Travertine is a natural limestone with a textured quality and warm tones.
PROS
Travertine offers unique surface variations such as grooves and pitting, perfect for that textural aesthetic.
More affordable than the other natural stones.
CONS
Will require ongoing sealing due to it being porous and sensitive to acid liquids.
10. Stainless Steel.
A sleek, durable and easy to clean option. Stainless steel can be used for optimal functionality in high traffic kitchens.
PROS
Very hygienic as commonly used in commercial kitchens.
A timeless industrial and modern choice as has been used in kitchens for decades.
CONS
Shows scratches and general patina over time.
The cooler tones of stainless steel limit its use in warmer toned designs.
11. Concrete.
A unique finish for those looking for an individual feature for their benchtop. Concrete is suitable for various design styles.
PROS
Concrete comes in many options of textures, finishes and thicknesses.
CONS
Concrete is porous like stone so will require sealing.
Can be more expensive to install as it requires a skilled installer.
12. Laminate.
Laminate is the most cost effective option that is highly durable and easy to clean. It is made with a decorative sheet and compressed plastic attached to a particle board.
PROS
Laminates come in many options that mimic stone, timber, metal and a wide variety of block colours.
Laminate is highly durable, easy to clean and affordable.
CONS
If wanting a thin benchtop profile, the edges where the laminate joins will be visible.
Engineered stone, not as we know it..
There is a lot of development behind the scenes in response to the government’s ban of engineered stone. Retailers such as Caesarstone and Talostone are both developing silica-free benchtop ranges due to be released in the second half of 2024. While this is exciting, it will take time to see how these new ranges perform over time.
In the mean time I hope this summary of other versatile and beautiful benchtop options gives you flexibility as you plan your renovation or refresh.
Lastly, if you need more individualised help with choosing the perfect benchtop for your kitchen or bathroom then feel free to reach out to me here. We can jump on a phone call and I can learn more about what you need - I’d love to help.
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