In recent years, quartz worktops have become the go-to choice for modern kitchens and bathrooms, prized for their durability and aesthetic appeal. However, a new innovation in the market has caught the attention of homeowners and designers alike: low silica quartz worktops.
Goto Xinyun to know more.
Traditional mineral quartz is composed of approximately 90-95% ground natural quartz combined with polymer resins and pigments. This engineered stone is manufactured through a process that combines these materials under intense pressure and heat, resulting in a non-porous surface that rivals natural stone in both beauty and functionality.
The high silica content contributes to its remarkable hardness and durability, making it resistant to scratches, stains, and everyday wear and tear. Traditional quartz has set the benchmark for engineered stone surfaces, offering a perfect balance of performance and aesthetics.
Low silica quartz, or silica free quartz worktops, represents the latest evolution in engineered stone technology. These innovative surfaces are manufactured using bio-resins, recycled glass and less than 5% silica to make it more eco-friendly and safer for manufacturers.
The manufacturing process involves using different mineral compositions and advanced binding technologies to create a surface that performs similarly to conventional quartz but with substantially less crystalline silica. This breakthrough has been achieved through years of research and development, resulting in a product that addresses both safety concerns and performance requirements.
Expanding on the popular Silestone quartz range, Silestone XM offers the latest in zero silica worktops. Maintaining the renowned quality of Silestone, they’re produced using an innovative hybrid formula. Silestone XM blends premium minerals, quartz and recycled glass with a maximum of 10% silica for an exceptional product that’s kinder to the planet while just as striking.
Silestone Hybriq technology means this product is manufactured using renewable energy and recycled water, creating an even eco-friendlier product and one that’s produced with sustainability and safety in mind.
There are many benefits to low or zero silica quartz, the main one being that it offers all the advantages of classic quartz worktops plus more. Less silica in the product means lower levels of silica dust, which means it’s more environmentally friendly and minimises air pollution during the production phase.
What’s more, if silica isn’t used, manufacturers can choose more sustainable options for the quartz mixture, such as resin-based and recycled materials. Silica dust is a big health concern in the manufacturing of traditional quartz, being linked to silicosis, a serious lung disease. This makes low silica quartz safer for those involved in producing this material.
While it does have different properties to classic silica quartz, zero silica worktops are highly durable and are just as stain-, scratch- and heat-resistant as regular quartz, so you can use them with confidence in your kitchen. They’ll retain their beauty for many years to come and can be crafted in a range of colours and styles to suit your home. Zero silica quartz is also non-porous, so it makes for a low-maintenance and hygienic solution for counters and kitchen surfaces.
Choosing the right worktop for your needs requires research and thought – it’s an investment you’ll use daily, so it needs to work with your style, your budget and your lifestyle. The percentage of crystalline silica can make quartz worktops more or less expensive, with those with less typically being more affordable than those with higher levels. But as we’ve explored, there are a host of other benefits to consider too. If you’re looking for a beautiful worktop that’s hardwearing and easy to maintain, while also being better for the planet, low silica options may be perfect for you.
Following the decision by Work Health & Safety Ministers in March , engineered stone has been officially banned in Australia from 1 July . In its place, silica-free stone is now the go-to choice for homeowners seeking stylish and safer alternatives for their kitchen stone bench.
While silica-free stone offers many of the same aesthetic benefits as traditional stone look benchtops, there are important considerations when it comes to installation, maintenance, and longevity. Having worked in the cabinetry and benchtop industry for over 40 years, we’ve seen firsthand what can go wrong when homeowners don’t know the full picture.
Here are six things I wish I knew before installing a silica-free stone bench top in my own kitchen renovation project.
Are you interested in learning more about Zero silicon artificial stone? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
Although silica-free stone can handle hot water, even boiling, it’s not as heat-resistant as natural stone. Placing a hot pot or tray directly from the stove onto your stone top benches can cause irreversible burn marks in the surface’s epoxy layer.
Additionally, UV rays from direct sunlight can fade colours and degrade the finish over time. Remember: always use heatproof boards, and be sure your installer allows for proper expansion gaps, about 5mm, to handle Australia’s temperature variations.
Like engineering stone, silica-free stone is tough but not indestructible. The edges of your kitchen stone bench, especially around under-mounted sinks or right-angle corners, are vulnerable to accidental knocks.
If you’re worried about this, consider opting for rounded edges like a bullnose profile. They’re far more forgiving against everyday kitchen accidents.
All stone top benches, whether engineered stone or silica-free, require visible joins, especially in L-shaped layouts or large bench spans. Internal corners must be joined to prevent cracking due to tension from temperature and expansion.
While expert installers do everything possible to minimise visibility, matching glue colour and levelling surfaces, a faint line will always be present if you look closely.
If you’re planning a breakfast bar or waterfall island, take note: any unsupported stone look benchtops overhang greater than 300mm will void most manufacturer warranties.
A 400mm overhang on a standard kitchen stone bench could weigh over 100 kilograms! Excessive weight or pressure could lead to cracks and serious safety risks. Always add proper supports if you want a larger overhang.
While all silica-free stone products are produced to high standards, some patterns and grain styles, especially the popular natural stone look benchtops, come with a higher price tag.
If you fall in love with a heavily grained colour or marble-look finish, be prepared for a price increase compared to solid colour options. The quality is consistent across all ranges, but you’re paying for the look and exclusivity of the design.
Though most homeowners think of stone as purely for kitchen stone benches, silica-free stone can be used creatively throughout your home.
From boardroom tables and splashbacks to skirting boards, stair treads, and even custom furniture like fishpond surrounds or stone picture frames, its versatility goes well beyond the kitchen.
Maintenance is simple but essential. Regular cleaning with warm, soapy water works best, avoiding harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners that could damage the surface polish.
Treat your new silica-free stone like glass: handle it with care, avoid sudden temperature shocks, and protect it from physical impacts. With the right care, your new stone look benchtops will remain a stunning centrepiece in your kitchen for years to come.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Inorganic Stone for Interiors.