5 things you should know before choosing an ultra compact surface
Dekton, Neolith, Lapitech and Maximum are a new generation materials referred to as ultra compact surfaces. Their application can be used for horizontal, vertical, indoor, outdoor, furniture and bench tops. Made of all natural materials and fired at extreme heat to replicate what Mother Nature has created over millions of years in hard granites, ultra compact surfaces are becoming the material of choice for the architectural, designer and specification spaces.
Comprised of natural raw materials, and built to last, the following are five things you should consider before making the choice to use an ultra compact surface for your next project.
1. It’s versatile for use outdoors
Commonly, traditional surfaces are affected over time by overexposure to UV light, thus making these materials inappropriate for use as external cladding or for an outdoor kitchen. Ultra compact surfaces are made without a resin and are manufactured at an extreme heat to ensure that the material will not deteriorate over time when installed outdoors.
2. Extremely strong but brittle on the edges
The surface is made with five times the compressive strength of granite, which means it’s very strong form the core of the material, and can withstand large amounts of weight. Modern stone tooling is yet to keep pace with new compact surfaces. The edge of the material is brittle and prone to chipping when cut with current technology tooling, however the chipping can be minimised by using a slight chamfer on the edge of the material, although this does not create a seamless join.
3. It won’t stain or scratch
A spill of some kind will not affect your ultra compact surface. The material is 100% non-porous meaning any liquid is easily removed and not absorbed. Also by being stain-proof, the surface remains extremely hygienic and ideal for preparing food. Similarly, the surface is very difficult to scratch and through normal everyday use should remain undamaged. This durability is a large attribute of ultra compact surfaces, which separates it from competitors.
4. The finish is only on the surface
Natural stone and quartz is full bodied so the pattern continues throughout the thickness of the material. Ultra compact surfaces often have a surface printed colour or feature vein like patterns to replicate marble. The print is millimeter thick and does not go all the way through the material. Using today’s technology, stonemasons are able to create a mitered edge showcasing the vein running through the compact surface top to front edge. To the eye, this visually looks as though the pattern is embedded along the edge.
5. The surface is heat resistant
Kitchen surfaces are exposed to high heat regularly. A hot pan or dish can cause damage to traditional stone surfaces within seconds. Ultra compact surfaces can withstand contact with high temperatures without being damaged making it ideal for any surface where meals are often prepared.
Consider these characteristics when choosing this material for your next project.
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