Sintered Stone May Be Your Next Countertop

Hi, I’d like to introduce myself – my name is Hannah and I’ve recently joined the design team at Creative Kitchen & Bath.  I am a Seattle transplant (very green! I arrived here a few months ago from a very rural area of southwest Virginia) and I’m enjoying seeing the world from a different longitude and latitude.  One of my favorite things about being in Seattle is the number of opportunities I find to see and learn about new products I can use as a designer. 

For more information, please visit our website.

http://www.cdkstone.com.au/luxury-surfaces/surfaces-neolith/

Last week I attended a CEU class on Sintered Stone (also called “ultra-compact surfacing”).  This is a product that has been on the American market for about 5 years and has recently been getting a lot of attention as a surface that can be used in new homes and remodels.  Sintered stone is created through a kiln-fired process that heats (over F) and applies pressure (lbs/square inch) to a mineral blend until it binds together.  In short, it’s synthesizing the process by which igneous rock is formed.  Unlike quartz, which uses a small percentage of resin that may fade and yellow over time, sintered stone is color-fast.  Not only is sintered stone UV-stable and chemical resistant, it has the best compressive strength of any comparable products currently on the market.   Sintered stone also has no warping and essentially no thermal expansion, regardless of temperature and moisture changes.   Not to mention it’s completely non-porous and will not stain. I’m sure you’re already thinking about the advantages of having a countertop made of sintered stone, but that’s not all it can do.

Originally developed for exterior building cladding, it’s uses have expanded and evolved.  Countertops (indoor and outdoor use), interior cladding, flooring and fireplace surrounds are among some of the more common applications.  The stone is manufactured in slabs of about 5-feet by 11-feet and in varying thicknesses and it has more tensile strength than many of the other counter-top materials on the market.  The sintered stone especially lends itself to European and contemporary design because it allows designers to continue solid surfaces and straight lines, but it’s not limited to any style or design trend.  Sintered stone manufacturers offer an array of textures and many colors to add interest to any space.  What I love about the textured sintered stone is that any finish, from a high polish to a very “rough-cut-edge,” it still has the UV-stable and chemical resistant properties which allow it to be easily cleaned and maintained (no sealing needed!).  Of course, you may not want a rough countertop, but what about a feature staircase?  Or a pool deck, and even the pool interior itself.  

https://www.themarbleandgranitecentre.co.uk/materials/granite

The heat-resistance of sintered stone also opens some very cool possibilities for cook-tops, fire places and outdoor fire pits.  It can also be produced with anti-microbial properties and becomes a food-safe surface.  I won’t recommend using your expensive knives if you cut food on a sintered stone countertop, but you would be able to prepare your raw foods on the surface and put your hottest pots and pans directly onto the counter without worrying about the surface holding up to stains, heat, and scratches. 

http://www.moddesignguru.com//03/thin-slab-porcelain-alternative-to.html

If you did find some spots or marks after letting that red wine spill sit overnight, you could take any degreaser, even rust remover, (you could use paint thinner if you so desired but I’m not recommending that either!) and it would clean your spots and leave the countertop undamaged!Although you probably don’t have to worry about this in your home, one of the real benefits of the product for exterior use is that paint (graffiti) can literally be removed with mineral spirits and the sintered stone is no worse for wear.

http://www.forresidentialpros.com/directory/countertops-surfacing-materials/product//lapitec-spa-mocha-sintered-stone

Although it’s a relatively new product and solid colors are most common in sintered stones, several of the companies that manufacture the product (Lapitec, Dekton, and Sapienstone to name a few ) have begun producing slabs that have marbled and veined look.  Depending on the manufacturer, this is either printed onto the slab or manufactured as a through-body design.  The printed slabs have more variety of looks, but the through-body slabs will have the patterning show through edges and may look more “natural.”   As the manufacturing process advances and the market expands, I’m sure sintered stone will begin to develop the same kind of visual variety we’re seeing in quartz today. 

If I were to get into the design possibilities I could really get carried away… the rules to remember are sintered stone is manufactured, and therefore needs to be fabricated and installed like quartz, and even though the fabrication process is slightly different, basically any shape they can cut quartz into, they can also cut sintered stone.  Keep an eye out for more sintered stone showing up on surfaces, in businesses, showrooms and maybe even your neighbor’s kitchen!

Thanks for reading and please let me know if you have any questions, and I hope this has sparked your creative mind!  I’d also love your feedback since I’d like to continue posting as I come across new products and ideas that get me excited.

Best,

Hannah

More people are turning from a traditional countertop like granite and quartz to a sintered stone countertop, but why? Sintered stone is an ideal choice for today’s kitchens and lifestyles because of it’s durability, beauty, and versatility. In this blog from Natural Stone City, we’ll look at what sintered stone is, how it compares to other popular countertop materials like granite and quartz, how it works for modern homeowners, and if it is worth the investment.

1. Countertop Materials: An Introduction

2. What Is Sintered Stone?

3. Sintered Stone vs Granite & Quartz

4. Sintered Stone: Why It’s Perfect for Modern Kitchens

5. Sintered Stone: Real-World Benefits for Homeowners

6. Sintered Stone: Is It Worth the Investment?

Find your next sintered stone countertop from Natural Stone City. Click on the links above to learn more, visit our amazing showroom, or contact us!

1. Countertop Materials: An Introduction

When it comes to choosing the perfect countertop, homeowners have traditionally turned to materials like granite, quartz, and marble for their beauty and durability. Granite offers natural variation and strength, while quartz provides consistency and low maintenance.

However, a new contender is quickly gaining attention in modern kitchen design: sintered stone. This innovative surface material is making waves for its exceptional performance and sleek, contemporary appeal.

With impressive resistance to heat, scratches, and stains — and virtually no upkeep required — sintered stone is positioning itself as the next big thing in countertop surfaces.

Sintered stone is a cutting-edge material made by mimicking the natural processes that form stone over thousands of years — but in a matter of hours.

Using a combination of heat, pressure, and natural raw materials like minerals and clays, sintered stone is created through a process called “sintering,” which bonds the particles together without the use of resins or binders.

The result is an ultra-compact surface that is:

• Non-porous

• Durable

• Environmentally friendly

Unlike quartz, which is engineered with resins, or granite, which must be mined and sealed, sintered stone offers a modern, low-maintenance alternative that delivers both beauty and performance, making it an ideal surface for today’s homes.

Sintered stone offers the durability of natural stone with the consistency and low maintenance of engineered surfaces — making it one of the most versatile and high-performance options on the market today.

In this section, we’ve provided a clear, easy-to-understand breakdown of the key differences between Sintered Stone, Granite, and Quartz. We’ll look at the following topics:

• Material Composition & Manufacturing

• Durability & Performance

• Aesthetics & Design

• Maintenance & Use

Follow along in the sections below to learn more about the key differences between sintered stone, granite and quartz or skip to the end of this section for tips on what material is best for what in your home design. Also, click here for another read on the pros and cons of sintered stone.

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a) Material Composition & Manufacturing

Sintered stone is the ultimate blend of style, strength, and simplicity, making it an ideal surface for today’s modern kitchens. With clean lines, large-format slabs, and a wide variety of finishes — from ultra-matte to polished and even textured — sintered stone perfectly complements the minimalist aesthetic and sleek functionality that define contemporary kitchen design.

But it’s not just about looks. Modern homeowners want surfaces that can keep up with real life — and sintered stone delivers. It’s non-porous, meaning it resists stains, bacteria, and moisture without ever needing to be sealed. You can chop, prep, or set down a hot pan without worry — thanks to its superior scratch and heat resistance. And because it’s also UV-stable, it works beautifully in indoor and outdoor kitchens alike.

In short, sintered stone doesn’t just look modern — it lives modern. It’s the smart choice for homeowners who want beauty that lasts, with none of the hassle.

In this next section, we’ve listed all the real-world advantages that homeowners get when they choose a sintered stone countertop:

• Zero Maintenance

  • No sealing, polishing, or special cleaners needed

  • Simply wipe with soap and water — that’s it!

• Stain-Resistant & Non-Porous

  • Spills won’t seep in or leave marks

  • Resists wine, coffee, oil, and acidic foods

• Scratch-Proof Surface

  • You can cut directly on it without damaging the finish

  • Great for busy kitchens and everyday use

• Heat Resistant

  • Hot pots and pans? No problem.

  • Won’t scorch, warp, or discolour under heat

• UV Resistant

  • Won’t fade in sunlight — perfect for outdoor kitchens and sunny spaces

• Hygienic & Bacteria-Resistant

  • Non-porous = no place for bacteria or mold to grow

  • Ideal for food prep, family kitchens, and health-conscious homes

• Long-Lasting & Durable

  • Designed to last decades without losing its appearance

  • Resists chips, cracks, and everyday wear and tear

• Eco-Friendly Choice

  • Made from natural materials with minimal environmental impact

  • Often recyclable at the end of its life

• Modern, Seamless Look

  • Available in large slabs = fewer seams and a sleek finish

  • Comes in matte, polished, and natural stone looks

• Adds Resale Value

  • Sintered stone is a premium material that impresses buyers

  • Enhances the value and appeal of your kitchen or home

Need we say more about the benefits of sintered stone? Ready to take a look at sintered stone in person? Visit us in Kitchener or London, Ontario!

Sintered stone typically sits between granite and quartz in terms of cost but provides superior performance with zero maintenance, increased heat resistance, and long-lasting durability. While sintered stone can be slightly more expensive upfront, it offers greater value over time by saving on maintenance, repairs, and replacements.

Lasts for Decades

Sintered stone is incredibly durable — resistant to scratches, stains, heat, UV rays, and impact. You won’t need to worry about cracks, discoloration, or damage, even in high-use kitchens. That means no costly repairs or replacements down the line.

Zero Maintenance = Zero Hassle

Forget about regular sealing, specialty cleaners, or touch-ups. Sintered stone is non-porous and low maintenance, saving you both time and money over the years.

Boosts Resale Value

As a premium, modern surface material, sintered stone adds a high-end touch to your kitchen — something homebuyers notice. It’s a feature that can elevate your home’s market appeal and increase resale value.

Safe for Indoor & Outdoor Use

Unlike quartz or laminate, sintered stone is UV resistant, making it perfect for sunny kitchens or even outdoor countertops. One surface — endless design flexibility.

Stylish & Timeless

With a wide range of finishes, textures, and colours — from natural stone looks to ultra-modern designs — sintered stone helps you create a space that’s both on-trend and timeless.

Overall, sintered stone is a smart, long-term investment for anyone looking for a surface that’s beautiful, bulletproof, and built to last, without the upkeep. It may cost a bit more up front, but the value you get in return makes it well worth it. It's an investment that pays off over time, both in performance and peace of mind.

Sintered Stone Countertops From Natural Stone City

Elevate your kitchen with the strength, style, and simplicity of sintered stone — available now at Natural Stone City in Kitchener and London.

With expert craftsmanship, premium materials like Lapitec, and personalized service, we make it easy to bring next-generation countertops to your home — built to last, made to impress.

Ready to make an appointment? Click on the button below to book your free consultation or contact us so we can help answer other questions you may have about our products and services. And don’t forget to visit us in person at our warehouse!

When you buy from Natural Stone City you’ll get:

• Installations in as little as 1 week

• Any colour you want and more

• Help from our knowledgeable and friendly staff who are experienced stone countertop specialists

Contact us today and we will help you choose the perfect countertop for your home.

The company is the world’s best Solid-Color Sintered Stone supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.