The versatile carbon-neutral architectural surface
What is Dekton for
Kitchen & Bathroom Worksurfaces?
At Stone Sense we are specialists in supplying and installing popular Dekton kitchen and bathroom worksurfaces. Dekton is a brand of ultra-compact surface material, manufactured by the Spanish company Cosentino, one of the leading global companies within the natural and engineered stone industry.
Dekton worktops are a popular kitchen worksurface choice offering both a unique look and feel. If you’ve never heard of Dekton, you might be wondering how it’s made and what benefits it can offer. Below, we’ve covered all the bases: from the process of manufacturing Dekton to the many qualities that make it an ideal and lasting kitchen worktop material for your home.
What Is Dekton?
Dekton is a type of engineered stone that has an extremely durable surface and is perfect for kitchen worktops. It’s comprised of mainly quartz, porcelain and glass, and can be described as a type of man-made quartz. Dekton was first introduced in 2013 by Cosentino, and though it’s still relatively new on the market, it has rapidly gained in popularity due to its hard-wearing surface, beautiful finish and easy maintenance. Only available from select retailers including ourselves at Stone Sense, Dekton worktops will enhance your kitchen and provide a stunning work surface for many years to come.
How Are Dekton Worksurfaces Made?
Dekton is created using a specific process called Sinterized Particle Technology (SPT). The different minerals and raw materials are subjected to extreme heat and pressure, which fuses them together to create an entirely new material. This procedure, called sinterization, produces the durable manufactured stone that is used for kitchen worktops and other surfaces. It is an increasingly popular choice for luxurious kitchen worktops, flooring, and wall cladding in both residential and commercial settings.
What are the Benefits of Dekton Worktops?
Dekton worktops offer several major benefits which are as follows:
Dekton’s manufacturing process uses high pressure and high heat to compress the raw materials and create a surface that is extremely dense and hard. This density and hardness make Dekton highly resistant to scratches and dents as compared to other worksurface materials such as granite, quartz or solid surface. This makes it a great option for work surfaces and especially within high-traffic kitchen areas. However, it’s important to note that no surface is completely scratch-proof, and it’s advisable to use cutting boards and avoid cutting or dragging abrasive materials such as knives or metal tools directly on the surface.
The surface of Dekton worktops is non-porous due to being extremely dense and hard. This means that it does not have any small openings or tiny spaces that can absorb liquids, stains or bacteria. Non-porous surfaces are known for their easy maintenance and cleaning as well as their resistance to staining. Dekton is also considered to be a hygienic and low maintenance surface, as it does not require any sealing or special cleaning products. It’s also resistant to the growth of mould or mildew which is a common issue in porous kitchen work surfaces.
Dekton is a versatile material that can be used in a variety of different applications. It is primarily used as a worktop material for kitchens and bathrooms, but it can also be used in other areas such as flooring, cladding, and outdoor spaces like patios, terraces and pool surrounds. Its durability, resistance to UV rays and thermal shock make it suitable for outdoor use. Additionally, it can be cut, bent, and shaped to fit a variety of different designs and styles, which makes it a versatile material for both residential and commercial projects. The wide range of styles and colours available in Dekton allows architects and designers to create unique and personalized spaces. The non-porous and low maintenance properties of the material also add to its versatility and makes it suitable for use in high traffic, commercial and public spaces.
Dekton worktops come in a wide variety of colours and finishes, allowing you to choose a look that complements your kitchen or bathroom decor. The manufacturer, Cosentino, offers a range of different finishes and patterns, including solid colours, marbled patterns, and textured finishes. This allows you to choose a surface that will match the aesthetic of your kitchen or bathroom and will also be functional and durable for your needs.
Popular colours include Dekton Zenith, Dekton Nilium and Dekton Orix. With neutral-coloured kitchens currently on the rise, Dekton Zenith’s off-white brilliance is the perfect colour for a minimalist kitchen. Dekton Nilium is predominantly white and speckled with metallic bits and pieces, making it ideal for more rustic or earthy kitchen aesthetics. On the other end of the colour spectrum, Dekton Orix mimics the look of natural dark grey stone, giving an industrial yet luxurious feel.
Dekton is UV resistant, which means it can withstand exposure to sunlight and UV rays without discolouring, fading, or changing its properties. This makes Dekton suitable for outdoor kitchens, as well as for indoor kitchen spaces that receive a lot of natural sunlight. The manufacture process for Dekton includes a treatment that enhances its resistance to UV, making the surface more stable and durable against the sun’s rays. However, it’s important to keep in mind that no surface is completely resistant to UV rays and prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause any surface to fade over time. It’s also recommended to avoid using strong chemical cleaners that contain bleaches or acids on the surface as these can erode the surface over time.
Thermal shock refers to the cracking or breaking that can occur when a material is rapidly and drastically exposed to high temperatures or rapid temperature changes such as going from a hot pan directly to cold water. According to Cosentino, Dekton is able to withstand temperatures up to 572°F (300°C) without any damage. This makes it suitable for use in high-heat applications such as kitchen worktops, as well as use in outdoor kitchens, fireplaces and even as cladding for wood burning ovens. However, as with any material, it is recommended to use trivets or heat pads when placing hot pans and pots on Dekton surfaces, as well as avoiding sudden temperature changes, such as placing a hot pan on a cold surface or pouring cold liquid on a hot surface.
According to the manufacturer, Cosentino, Dekton surfaces are resistant to most household chemicals, including acidic substances such as lemon juice and vinegar, and basic substances such as baking soda and ammonia. It is also resistant to oils, wines, and most common household stains. However, it’s important to note that Dekton is not completely resistant to all chemicals, acids, and bleach. Strong chemicals such as hydrofluoric acid, muriatic acid, or chlorinated products may cause damage to the surface. It’s always recommended to test the product in a small, inconspicuous area before using it on the entire surface. It’s also recommended to clean up spills immediately and avoid leaving chemicals on the surface for an extended period of time.
Dekton is a highly durable kitchen worksurface material that can withstand heavy use, and which is resistance to everyday wear and tear. This means your worktops should last for many years with very little maintenance required. The manufacturing process of Dekton involves compressing its raw materials at very high pressure and at high temperatures, which in turn creates a surface that is extremely dense, hard and resistant to scratches, bumps, and stains. As a worksurface, Dekton will maintain its appearance and durability for many years. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the longevity of any material is dependent on the amount of use and care it receives over its lifetime.
Manufacturer, Cosentino, uses a combination of recycled raw materials in the production process of Dekton. They also have a recycling program for offcuts and scraps of the product. Additionally, Dekton is a very durable material, which means that it can last for many years without needing to be replaced; It’s always good to consider the entire life cycle of a product and this can have a very positive environmental impact by reducing the need for frequent replacement of worktops.
How Does Dekton Compare to Quartz?
Dekton and quartz share many similarities, since they are both a type of engineered stone and contain natural quartz. Quartz worktops are a popular option, durable and low maintenance, and available in a wide range of colours and patterns. Dekton has the upper hand in that it’s more resistant to stains than quartz. Quartz is also more likely to be susceptible to heat damage, whereas Dekton is impervious to heat. While Dekton is UV-proof and won’t be damaged by the sun, quartz is known to become discoloured when exposed to too much sunlight. Quartz has a slight edge over Dekton when it comes to its resistance to chips. Though Dekton is believed to be scratch-proof, it can in some cases be susceptible to chipping.
How Does Dekton Compare to Granite?
Granite is a natural stone used for centuries in kitchen worktops and is desirable for its aesthetically pleasing multi-coloured pattern which adds character to a kitchen. Both granite and Dekton are durable surfaces and resistant to UV rays. The biggest difference between granite and Dekton is that granite requires sealing upon installation, as well as regular resealing. Dekton does not require any sealing, making installation and maintenance much easier. When it comes to looks, granite might have a slight advantage due to its natural glamour and beauty. Each granite surface is completely unique, and its one-of-a-kind pattern is often sought after for state-of-the-art kitchens.
What is the Difference Between Dekton and Neolith?
Neolith and Dekton are extremely similar in composition and functionality. Neolith is also an engineered stone that is produced using sinterization. Both surfaces are incredibly durable and resistant to heat, scratches and UV light. The slight difference is that Dekton is more resistant to pressure, whereas Neolith might be a bit more susceptible to wear and tear. Overall, however, both offer many benefits and are great choices for kitchen worktops.
Is Dekton Expensive Compared with Other Kitchen Worktop Materials?
Dekton is considered a premium worksurface product and is generally more expensive than other materials such as laminate or granite. However, in comparison to stone surfaces like marble and quartz, Dekton is one of the more inexpensive options. The cost of uninstalled quartz is not too dissimilar from Dekton’s cost when installed, meaning that purchasing a slab of quartz and having it installed often ends up being more expensive. Because they have many similar qualities, it might be more cost-effective and worthwhile to invest in Dekton worktops. The many benefits of Dekton such as it being more durable and resistant to heat, scratches and stains than other materials, also makes Dekton a good investment in the long term. Additionally, the price of Dekton can vary significantly depending on the specific type and colour of the product, as well as the retailer you purchase it from.
Talk to Our Dekton Worktop Experts Today
From its resistance to scratches and heat to its unique finish and long-lasting qualities, it’s clear to see why Dekton worktops are much in demand! But ultimately, whether it is the right choice for you compared with other worktop materials depends entirely on your specific needs and preferences. It is always advisable to consult with a professional before making any decision and our team of experts are on hand to help and answer any questions you have. We also recommend a visit to our spacious Oldbury worktop showroom where we can discuss your personal requirements, demonstrate the different worktop material qualities and offer professional advice on the best possible worktop solution for you and your home.
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