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If you’re exploring options for a new benchtop, you may have come across terms like composite stone, engineered stone, or reconstituted stone. These all refer to essentially the same product: a manufactured stone surface made by combining natural minerals with modern resins. Composite stone benchtops in Perth have skyrocketed in popularity because they deliver the best of both worlds – the premium look of stone and the practical benefits of cutting-edge technology. At Schmick Stone & Cabinets, we create and install stunning composite stone benchtops that give you the beauty of marble or granite with even greater strength and convenience.
Composite stone is an umbrella term for man-made stone surfaces. The most common type of composite benchtop is engineered quartz, which consists of around 90% natural stone aggregates (like quartz, granite or silica sand) mixed with 10% binding resins and pigments. The mixture is formed into slabs under high pressure and heat, creating a uniform, extremely durable material. In simpler terms, composite stone is real stone that has been crushed and reformed into a perfect slab. This process was developed to make use of stone off-cuts and mineral fragments that would otherwise go to waste – meaning composite stone is not only tough, but can be more environmentally friendly by maximizing the use of natural resources. The end product is a benchtop surface that looks like solid rock but has enhanced performance characteristics for everyday use.
Homeowners and builders in Perth are turning to composite stone for many good reasons:
Composite stone is engineered to withstand the rigors of daily life. It’s highly scratch-resistant and won’t chip easily. Whether it’s a busy family kitchen or a high-traffic commercial space, composite surfaces hold up exceptionally well.
Thanks to its non-porous nature, composite stone doesn’t absorb spills. You can confidently pour your coffee or slice beetroot on a composite benchtop without fearing permanent stains (just wipe up spills within a reasonable time). This is a major advantage over porous natural stones which can be more stain-prone if unsealed.
Since composite stone is manufactured, it comes in an extensive array of designs. You’ll find everything from slabs that replicate classic natural stones (like marble veining or granular granite textures) to sleek solid colors and adventurous patterns not found in nature. No matter your kitchen or bathroom style – modern monochrome, earthy and rustic, or elegant and luxurious – there’s a composite stone to match.
Composite slabs are consistent in appearance. If you need multiple slabs for a long countertop or for different areas, they will match each other in color and pattern. This uniformity also means that if your design requires a join, the seam can be made less conspicuous because the pattern continues smoothly from one piece to the next.
Generally, composite stone is more affordable than its equivalent in pure natural stone. You can achieve the high-end look of, say, Calacatta marble or black granite at a fraction of the cost of the natural material. This makes composite stone a budget-friendly way to get a luxe aesthetic. Plus, because slabs are produced in standard sizes, there’s typically less wastage and lower cutting costs compared to working with unpredictable natural slabs.
Say goodbye to periodic sealing and special cleaners. Composite stone is very easy to look after. Routine cleaning with a damp cloth or mild detergent is usually all it takes to keep it spotless. It doesn’t require sealing upon installation or resealing down the line, unlike many natural stones. That means less hassle and lower long-term upkeep costs for you.
Many composite stone brands are embracing sustainability. Some lines incorporate recycled glass, mirror chips, or reclaimed stone pieces into their designs, creating beautiful terrazzo-like effects while recycling materials. Additionally, because composite stone makes use of crushed stone that might otherwise be discarded, it maximizes the use of quarry products. Choosing a composite benchtop can be a greener choice for your renovation.
It’s helpful to compare composite stone to natural stone to see which is right for you. Natural stone, like granite or marble, is unique – every slab has one-of-a-kind patterns crafted by nature. Composite stone, on the other hand, offers predictability and uniform beauty. Natural stones may have fissures or anomalies that some see as charm and others see as imperfections. Composite stone eliminates those uncertainties; you know exactly what you’re getting in terms of color and pattern. In terms of performance, composite stone generally wins on non-porosity (no sealing needed, and much less worry about stains) and often on flex strength (it’s slightly more flexible, so it’s less prone to cracking during fabrication and transport). However, extremely high heat can be a concern for composites due to the resin content – you should use trivets for hot pots, just as you would on a polished marble or even on sealed granite, to be safe. Natural stones like granite are very heat resistant but do require sealing and can chip at edges if impacted. From a style perspective, composite stone can convincingly imitate many natural stones now, so you can achieve that organic look without some of the upkeep drawbacks of real stone.
There are several reputable composite stone brands available in Perth. You might have heard of Caesarstone – it’s a leading brand of engineered quartz (which is a type of composite stone). Other brands include Silestone, Quantum Quartz, Essastone (by Laminex), Smartstone, and more. Each brand offers its own palette of colors and finishes, but all share the core qualities that make composite stone a smart choice. Some brands even have special textures or matte finishes to give you more design possibilities (for example, a honed finish for a soft, non-glossy look). At Schmick Stone & Cabinets, we work with all major composite stone brands, giving you access to hundreds of design options. Our team can show you samples and help you compare shades and patterns to find the perfect fit for your décor.
Opting for composite stone is a great decision – and to make it even better, you’ll want it installed by professionals who know the material inside out. Our installation process for composite stone benchtops is meticulous. We take detailed measurements and use precision cutting tools to ensure your benchtop fits exactly into your space. We understand the nuances of composite materials, such as how to properly support spans and where to place joints for both strength and appearance. During installation, we join pieces with color-matched adhesives that harden to be as strong and invisible as possible. We also make sure any cutouts (for sinks, cooktops, etc.) are done to the manufacturer’s guidelines, preserving your product warranty and preventing any weak spots. The end result is a flawless composite stone benchtop that looks like it was always meant to be there.
For those who want a combination of beauty, durability, and value, composite stone benchtops are hard to beat. They’ve proven themselves in thousands of Perth homes as a top-tier choice. If you’re considering upgrading to a composite stone surface, let Schmick Stone & Cabinets guide you. We’ll help you navigate the myriad of options and handle the entire process seamlessly – from removing your old benchtop (if needed) to the final polish of your new one.
Ready to discover how a composite stone benchtop can transform your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry? Contact Schmick Stone & Cabinets for a free measure and quote. Our friendly experts are happy to discuss your project, show you samples, and provide honest advice on materials and design. We pride ourselves on delivering results that align with our motto: “Want perfection? Ask for Schmick.” Get in touch today and take the first step towards enjoying a gorgeous, hassle-free composite stone benchtop in your Perth home.