6 traits that have everybody talking about Dekton
In the Architectural decorative surfaces space there is much talk about ultra compact surfaces, and in particular, Dekton. Made by decorative surface veterans Cosentino, the product houses some incredible capabilities and will soon be one of the leading decorative surfaces for various applications. The following are 6 reasons you should seriously consider using Dekton for your next project.
It’s durable
Rarely do brands use the word ‘proof’, preferring to label a product as water or scratch RESISTANT. However Dekton and other ultra compact surfaces are close. If there is one product that can withstand the elements it’s Dekton. It is not susceptible to the extreme heat of a hot pan, or the freezing temperatures of the outdoors during winter. It is also UV resistant which separates it from other traditional surfaces such as laminate or stone. However, the most practical of the surface’s resistant qualities is it’s stain and scratch proof attribute. A busy kitchen can always cause damage over time to the main surface however with Dekton this is avoided. The non-porous nature of the surface ensures that liquid is not absorbed into the product and can be wiped away and maintained with ease. This all may seem too good to be true, so if you don’t believe it, watch this performance testing video.
2. It’s big
The majority of ultra compact surfaces on the market are only available at a predetermined depth, such as 12mm. Dekton is available in depths of 8mm, 12mm and 20mm and 30mm, making it suitable for plenty of different design purposes. The sheets come in a size of 3.2 meters long by 1.4 meters wide. The large format sheeting makes it ideal for cladding and high traffic flooring as well as bench tops. These size sheets allow for economic use of off cuts depending on the size of the application area.
3. It’s strong
Dekton has 5 times the flexural strength of some natural stone such as granite, which means it can have up to a foot of unsupported overhang. It also has a high compressive strength at the core of the material. This allows for the surface to be incredibly weight bearing in areas such as driveways. However, some case studies on the product have shown that the composition of ultra compact surfaces make them susceptible to light chipping on the edges when cut during the fabrication process. One way fabricators of the material have combatted this is by placing a chamfer on the seen edge before installation, however this can remove a seamless join when butted against another sheet. Fabrication tools have not kept up with the remarkable advances the surfaces themselves have made in recent years, so as cutting technology advances these problems will cease to exist.
4. It’s versatile
Like mentioned above, the material is almost invincible, and by equipping the material with these resistant capabilities, Cosentino have allowed for Dekton’s multi-use application. Due to it’s UV resistant qualities the material can be used in all outdoor areas without warping, fading or cracking. This makes it ideal for use in an BBQ area or as cladding (large sheets make this a reality), or as use as some kind of pavers. For design purposes, the different thicknesses available also allow for the material to be used as a splashback or drawer fronts as well as a bench top.
5. It’s attractive
Being so new, Dekton (and most ultra compact surfaces) are not available in as many different finishes and colours as more traditional materials like quartz, laminate and natural stone. However, the options are growing, with Dekton JUST releasing a gloss range of products. There are styles mimicking natural stone formations and finishes or bold colours available for any design style. However, unlike some materials the sheets are not full bodied and the pigment is different on the surface of the material compared to the core. This creates some issues when the sheets are cut for appliances etc.
6. It’s revolutionary
Comprised of a combination of natural raw materials, the surface is changing the game. Ultra compact surfaces in general now solve a lot of the problems faced by household surfaces with their resistant attributes. The manufacturing process uses modern sciences and ‘sinterized particle technology’ to mimic a metamorphic change natural stone undergoes over thousands of years.
Expect to hear a lot about this surface in the coming years!
Watch out for more information regarding Dekton’s manufacturing process and history in the coming weeks.
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