Do you like natural stone but find that granite or marble sinks, or kitchen countertops made from these noble materials, are significantly beyond your household budget? Now that's no longer a problem. Modern technology allows you to enjoy an originally appearing sink or other kitchen equipment elements made from durable conglomerate. It is just as impressive and durable, yet much cheaper than those made of real granite or marble.
What exactly is conglomerate?
Some of our clients wonder whether conglomerate is a natural or artificial material. It's actually difficult to give a straightforward answer because, on one hand, there's nothing like conglomerate in nature, while on the other, it is derived from natural stone. Most commonly, the following types of conglomerates can be distinguished:
quartz conglomerate,
marble conglomerate,
granite conglomerate.
It is formed by crushing granite, marble, or quartz and combining it with resin or cement. This way, conglomerate blocks are created, which have a wide range of applications and can be used to produce sinks or kitchen countertops, for example. It is an excellent alternative to stone countertops, which are considerably more expensive.
Conglomerate or natural stone? What to make a kitchen countertop from?
Kitchen countertops were made from wood for years, but although wooden countertops are very impressive, they also proved to be not very durable. Therefore, they were quickly replaced by stone countertops, which are heavy and almost indestructible, but quite difficult to process. Countertops made from natural stones are undoubtedly beautiful but quite expensive, whereas in the case of kitchen countertops made from conglomerate, the price is definitely more affordable.
When it comes to types of countertops, those made from conglomerates are becoming increasingly popular and are eagerly chosen when arranging a kitchen. Especially as they are available in a really wide choice of colours. Besides models that faithfully imitate natural stone, including colours and veining characteristic of marble or graphite, kitchen countertops are also available in many other colours. Thanks to this, they can easily be matched to the other elements of the kitchen equipment.
Solid kitchen countertops
A kitchen countertop is a place where meals are prepared, heavy items are placed, and fruits or vegetables are set down, sometimes directly on its surface something is cut. Kitchen countertops are continuously exposed to water and other liquids, as well as often high temperatures, especially if they are located near a cooker. That's why the choice of a countertop is very important, as it should be not only a decoration but above all a functional element of kitchen equipment.
Therefore, the most important feature that a kitchen worktop should have is resistance to mechanical damage and moisture. A countertop made of wood, even if it has been impregnated, darkens over time under the influence of water. A countertop made from quartz conglomerate or any other can handle moisture very well and does not absorb water. High durability and resistance are the most important features to remember when choosing kitchen countertops.
Advantages of kitchen countertops made from conglomerates
As the kitchen countertop is used for preparing meals, it needs to be kept perfectly clean. Wooden countertops often get damaged, especially under the influence of moisture, which can make them prone to the development of microorganisms, including harmful ones. That's also why conglomerate or laminated countertops, resistant to moisture, are a better choice. Kitchen equipment elements made from conglomerate are very easy to keep clean, you only need to regularly wipe them with a cloth or sponge using standard chemical agents.
Countertops made from conglomerates show high resistance to scratches or deformations. You can safely place hot dishes on them without worrying about damaging the countertop. This is particularly useful in a small kitchen, where there is often no space to set down hot dishes while cooking. Additionally, conglomerate is highly resistant to UV radiation, so it does not change colour and does not fade under the influence of sunlight.
Conglomerate in your kitchen
If you are looking for a countertop or sink for your kitchen that will not only be resistant to high temperatures and mechanical damage but also become a decoration, be sure to consider the exceptional material known as conglomerate. Natural materials such as marble, quartz, or granite, crushed and bound by polyester resin, are perfect for making a kitchen countertop. If you dream of a high-gloss stone countertop but don't want to buy marble, conglomerate will be a great solution for you. Your kitchen will gain a functional interior element that will also become a true ornament.