Dekton FAQs
Is Dekton cheaper than quartz?
The difference between Dekton and standard quartz is that it is manufactured using a unique process called sinterised particle technology. Particles of quartz, porcelain and glass are blended under extreme pressure and ultra-high heat. As a result Dekton is ultra-compacted, virtually non-porous and durable.Â
You might expect this specialised process to result in higher costs, but in fact Dekton prices, in terms of the material, are comparable with quartz products such as Silestone,
Arenastone, Caesarstone, Samsung Radianz and Compac. However, while the price per m2 may be similar, there are extra costs for the specialist skills needed to fabricate and fit Dekton because it is so hard – you even need more saw blades to cut it. For accurate comparisons with other stones, get in touch with us for a quote.
Is Dekton better than Silestone?
Both Dekton and Silestone are first-class materials for kitchen worktops. The differences are that Dekton’s manufacturing process gives it unparalleled density and resistance to scratching and discolouration. As a result, it is also highly suitable for flooring and wall coverings, and it works perfectly out doors for patio furniture, walkways, wall cladding and other architectural uses. The range of thicknesses, from 4mm through to 30mm, makes it a top choice for designers and design-conscious home-owners.
Silestone is a high-end quartz which is formulated to be bacteriostatic – that is, it stops bacteria spreading. It looks superb, and comes with a choice of three different finishes – ultra-smooth polished, softer suede and subtly dimpled volcano. Dekton too comes in a similar range of beautiful finishes.
However, both stones are easy to maintain, and will look fantastic for many years to come. Both also come with a 25-year manufacturer’s guarantee as long as they are fitted by an approved installer such as ourselves at County Stone.
So which is better? The answer is that it entirely depends on your preferences. Dekton and Silestone come in a range of beautiful colours and patterning, and given the exceptional practicality of both, you won’t be making a mistake if your choice is based on the look alone.
Is Dekton ceramic?
The short answer is that technically it is not. Dekton uses a proportion of porcelain in its composition, which is not entirely dissimilar to a ceramic, but is denser and even less porous. Dekton’s manufacturer describes it as a porcelanic material.Â
Ceramic worktops are also created by a sintering process, and like Dekton are very dense and compressed. See more about ceramic worktops and our suppliers Lapitec and Neolith.
Is Dekton porcelain?
It is porcelanic, made with a proportion of porcelain, but is not pure porcelain. See ‘Is Dekton ceramic?’ above.
Is Dekton the same as Corian?
Corian was an early arrival on the man-made kitchen worktop scene back in 1967, and was created by Dupont. It is made by heat forming polymers and minerals in a 1:2 ratio. It is relatively low cost, and easily formed into pretty much any shape. It is resistant to scratches and heat, but less so than more modern materials such as Dekton.
Dekton is a different animal, with a high proportion of quartz, porcelain and glass (90%) in its make-up. It is harder, less porous and more durable than Corian, and also more polished and lustrous. In short, it is a superior choice for your kitchen.Â
Is Dekton carbon-neutral?
Yes, Dekton is carbon neutral through its life cycle of mineral extraction, usage and the end of its useful life. It manages to achieve its environmental credentials through the use of renewable energy, a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, and offsetting emissions through green energy projects.
Can Dekton be supplied in any shape?
Dekton’s manufacturing process allows it to be made in almost any curved or linear shape. However, please note that curved shapes cannot be supplied with mitred edges, and that the edges of curved worktops would not have the same patterning as the surface.
At County Stone our stonemasons will finish Dekton worktops to fit precisely the space in your kitchen, including recesses and apertures for sinks, hobs, taps and other fittings.Â
Why is the Dekton guarantee only for worktops fitted by an approved installer?
One of the issues of working with Dekton is that it is extremely rigid. Sawyers, fabricators and installers also need to handle the worktops carefully, and must have the experience and expertise to finish edges, and to cut, drill, fix and join without damaging the material in any way. Dekton have developed a fabulous product, and they want it to be treated with the same care and attention they use within their own operation. That’s why they will only honour the 25-year manufacturer’s guarantee if their worktops are fitted by companies which, like County Stone, meet their high standards.