Dekton Countetops
Dekton countertops are sneaking onto the radar as the latest craze in kitchen countertop materials. Virtually indestructible, they’re scorch-proof, stain-proof, and scratch-proof. There are numerous other reasons to love these countertops and that is what I want to share with you today. I love using these on my indoor projects as well as my outdoor.
What is Dekton Made Of?
Dekton is a sintered stone also known as an “ultra-compact surface” in the world of countertop materials. Dekton is made from a combo of the same raw materials used to make quartz, glass, and porcelain countertops. But it’s different from all three.
It’s a brand-new type of countertop surface that is created with a unique fabrication process called Sinterized Particle Technology. The process involves mixing the raw materials under extreme pressure and heat. We’re talking compressors that squash at 5900 psi (pounds per square inch) and ovens that reach 2191ºF (1200ºC).
he result is a type of countertop that is almost indestructible and easy to maintain. That is the main claim to fame. The idea behind Dekton sintered stone is to improve upon the performance of quartz countertops, which are an extremely popular and excellent surface.
Dekton countertops are a product of Cosentino, a private Spanish company that produces decorative and architectural surfaces like Silestone quartz countertops, distributing them worldwide.
Dekton Benefits
Super Durability
Dekton countertops are extremely durable. Whack them, slice on them, sit on them — they’ll hold up. Of course, other materials feature this durability as well. But the key here is that those other materials (granite, marble, quartz, etc.) can stain and need sealing or can discolor (quartz) from some foods and products. Dekton will not stain and are highly resistant to cracking as well.
Heat Proof
Not many countertop materials can boast being heat-proof. Most are just heat-resistant. But with Dekton countertops, you can basically light them on fire as they’re tolerant to even the most extreme hot temperatures.
Slab Sizes
Unlike other countertop materials, Dekton countertops are sold in quite large slabs: 320cm x 144cm (~ 126” x 56”). This means that they are generally large enough to cover the entirety of your countertop area without requiring a seam. The result is a sleeker and cleaner look.
Full Body Color is available
When color pigments are added to the raw materials that go into creating Dekton, the color goes all the way through. So, if your countertops do chip, the chip will be the same color as the countertop surface, and the repair won’t be too noticeable. However, the pattern does not go full-body, so chips inside a pattern will be noticeable.
Perfect For Indoor & Outdoor
Unlike quartz countertops, Dekton can be installed as outdoor countertops. This is true even in freezing climates. Dekton countertops will not crack or fracture due to even the most frigid or hottest temperatures. Furthermore, they are UV resistant, which means their colors will not fade (like quartz will) even when in constant exposure to the sun.
Dekon Things You Need To Know
On The Expensive Side
Compared to some other types of countertops like granite, marble, and quartz, Dekton countertops are in a similar range but are typically more expensive on average. More details in the “Cost” section below.
Limited Number of Fabricators and Installers
Because Dekton countertops are relatively new to the kitchen design market, not many fabricators / installers are entirely familiar with installing this product (including the Home Depot installers).
Of course, familiarity with Dekton is definitely something you’ll want in your installers or you risk irreparable damaged to materials during installation or a botched result. Someone hired in a rural area especially may not have the experience necessary to install these countertops.
Edge styles are limited with certain patterns and textures
The pattern and texture would be removed when creating or cutting some of the more complex edge styles. Thus, most opt for a simple squared or mitered edge or shark nosed edge.
Printed designs and textures do not extend through the countertops
A final drawback is that pigments don’t run through the full thickness of the slab and patterns are printed onto the tops of the countertops. This means that in the rare event of damage, such as a chip, it will be quite noticeable. The same applies to any surface texture which cannot be repaired to new condition.
Conclusion
In my opinion Dekton is the ultimate surface for kitchen countertops: it is highly resistant to stains, scratches and heat, and is available in a wide range of colors and really doesn’t break the bank like quartzite. I not only use it for kitchen but also use it in other areas like showers (no grout), and on fireplaces.
