Jul 83 min read

Sintered Stone vs Quartz Countertop Singapore: Which One to Choose?

Updated: Sep 6

sintered stone island cabinet — sintered stone singapore - island cabinet

Choosing the perfect countertop for your kitchen or bathroom can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons of each material to make an informed decision. Two popular choices in the market today are sintered stone and quartz. Let's dive into the details of each to help you determine which one is the best fit for your home.

What is Sintered Stone in Singapore?

Sintered stone is a relatively new material in Singapore countertop industry, made from a combination of natural minerals subjected to extreme heat and pressure. The process, known as sintering, fuses these minerals together, creating a highly durable and non-porous surface.

Pros of Sintered Stone:

Durability: Sintered stone is incredibly tough, resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It can withstand high impact and heavy use, making it an excellent choice for busy kitchens.
Low Maintenance: Its non-porous nature means it doesn't require sealing and is resistant to mold and bacteria. Cleaning is straightforward with just soap and water.
Versatility: Available in various colors, patterns, and finishes, sintered stone can mimic the look of natural stone or other materials, providing great design flexibility.
Environmental Friendly: The production process of sintered stone is eco-friendly, often using recycled materials and producing minimal waste.

Cons of Sintered Stone:

Cost: It tends to be more expensive than other countertop options, including quartz.
Installation: Due to its hardness, cutting and installing sintered stone can be challenging, often requiring professional expertise.

What is Quartz?

Quartz countertops are engineered stone products made from a mixture of natural quartz crystals and resin binders. This combination results in a highly durable and non-porous surface, similar to sintered stone but with some key differences.

Pros of Quartz:

Durability: Quartz is highly resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. It’s also less prone to chipping or cracking compared to natural stone.
Low Maintenance: Like sintered stone, quartz is non-porous and doesn’t require sealing. It’s also easy to clean and maintain.
Aesthetic Variety: Quartz countertops come in a vast array of colors and patterns, including options that mimic natural stone. This makes it easy to match any interior design style.
Consistency: Because it’s engineered, quartz countertops offer consistent colors and patterns, avoiding the natural variations found in stone.

Cons of Quartz:

Heat Sensitivity: While quartz is heat resistant, it’s not as heatproof as sintered stone. Placing hot pots and pans directly on the surface can cause damage.
Cost: Quartz can also be pricey, often falling into the same price range as sintered stone, though sometimes slightly less expensive.
UV Sensitivity: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause discoloration in quartz countertops, making them less suitable for outdoor kitchens.

Making the Decision: Sintered Stone or Quartz?

When choosing between sintered stone and quartz, consider the following factors:

Usage: For a busy kitchen where durability and heat resistance are paramount, sintered stone might be the better option. Its ability to withstand high temperatures and heavy use makes it ideal for high-traffic areas.
Aesthetic Preferences: Both materials offer a wide range of colors and patterns, but if you prefer a more natural stone look with less variation, quartz might be the way to go.
Budget: Both options are on the higher end of the price spectrum. However, if budget is a significant concern, comparing specific brands and installation costs could make one option more feasible than the other.
Maintenance: Both materials are low maintenance, but if you prefer a completely worry-free surface, the slightly superior resistance to heat and scratches of sintered stone could tip the scales in its favor.

Ultimately, the choice between sintered stone and quartz comes down to your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Both materials offer exceptional durability, aesthetic appeal, and low maintenance, ensuring that whichever you choose, your countertop will be a beautiful and functional addition to your home for years to come.