What is Artificial Granite Called

When it comes to the world of home decoration and countertops, one question that often arises is: what is artificial granite called? The answer lies in the spectrum of engineered stone surfaces, with the most common type being quartz. Artificial granite, also known as engineered or composite granite, is a man-made material that replicates the look and feel of natural granite, but with added benefits in terms of maintenance and durability. Let's delve into the details of artificial granite and explore why it's often referred to as quartz.

Artificial granite's nomenclature is a bit of a misnomer, as it's not made from granite at all. Instead, it's primarily composed of ground silica (around 90-94%) and resin (6-7%), along with pigments and otherignacprocessed natural stones. This composition makes it a highly durable, non-porous, and easy-to-maintain surface, perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and other applications where longevity and hygiene are crucial.

Understanding Quartz as Artificial Granite

Immersing ourselves deeper into the world of artificial granite, we find that the term 'quartz' is often used interchangeably due to the primary component of these surfaces. Quartz, in this context, refers to ground quartz crystals, which are about the size of a grain of sand. When combined with the resin and pigments, they create a beautiful, sparkling, and highly functional surface.

Quartz is a term that's widely recognized and understood in the home improvement industry, making it a familiar and prevalent way to refer to artificial granite. However, it's essential to discern that not all quartz surfaces are created equal. While most fall under the category of engineered or composite stones, some are more appropriately referred to as engineered quartz, due to their higher concentration of quartz particles and distinctive quarcolorations.

Types of Artificial Granite

Artificial granite, or quartz, comes in various types, catering to diverse tastes and needs. Some of the most common types include:

• Solid Surface: Made from a mix of acrylic and other materials, these surfaces are non-porous and seamless, making them easy to clean and maintain.
• Urbanite/Concrete: These surfaces mimic the rustic look of concrete, with a more earthy and industrial aesthetic. They're often used in contemporary and modern designs.
• Metallic/Glitter: Containing fine metal particles or metallic pigments, these surfaces offer a unique and luxurious appearance, with a subtle gleam under light.

Benefits of Artificial Granite Over Natural Granite

The process of manufacturing artificial granite allows for a level of control over the material's properties that's not possible with natural granite. This leads to several advantages:

1. Durability: Artificial granite is highly resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like countertops and flooring.
2. Consistency: Engineered stone surfaces offer a more uniform appearance, as they're manufactured in a controlled environment, unlike natural stone, which can vary in color and pattern.
3. Maintenance: Artificial granite is non-porous, which means it doesn't require sealing, and it's easy to clean with mild soap and water. This makes it a low-maintenance option compared to natural stone.

Applications of Artificial Granite

Given its durability, aesthetic appeal, and low maintenance, artificial granite finds wide-ranging applications in both residential and commercial spaces:

Countertops

Kitchen and bathroom countertops are one of the most common applications for artificial granite. The material's resistance to heat, stains, and scratches makes it an excellent choice for tasks like food preparation, cooking, and grooming.

Flooring and Wall Tiling

Artificial granite can also be used for flooring, particularly in areas prone to moisture and heavy foot traffic. Its non-porous nature makes it resistant to mold and mildew, making it suitable for bathrooms and kitchens. Similarly, it can be used as a tiling option for walls and backsplashes, adding a seamless and continuous look to the space.

Fireplace Surrounds and Mantels

The heat-resistant properties of artificial granite make it an ideal choice for fireplace surrounds and mantels. It can withstand the high temperatures of the fireplace and is easily cleanable, ensuring it retains its appearance over time.

In conclusion, while there might be some confusion around what artificial granite is called, it's clear that these surfaces, often referred to as quartz, offer a comfortable blend of durability, low maintenance, and timeless aesthetics. Whether you're looking to update your countertops, flooring, or fireplace, artificial granite is a wise choice that's built to last.