Sintered Stone vs. Quartz Dining Tables: A Comprehensive Comparison

The dining table is where meals are shared and where memories are made. But beyond its sentimental value, the material of your table plays a vital role in its functionality and the overall aesthetic of your dining room. 

Among several options in the market, sintered stone and quartz have emerged as popular contenders. 

But which is better, quartz or sintered stone? 

We understand that choosing between the two can be a tough call, especially since each material offers unique benefits and visual appeal. So, in this blog post, we’ll discuss the nuances between sintered stone vs. quartz dining tables. This way, you can make an informed choice that perfectly complements your design preferences and lifestyle.

Decoding Differences: Quartz vs. Sintered Stone

While sintered stone and quartz may appear similar at first glance, they possess distinct characteristics that set these dining table materials apart. Take a look at how they’re different in terms of their composition, manufacturing processes and aesthetic qualities:

1. Composition Distinctions

Engineered quartz comprises approximately 90% natural quartz crystals bound together with resins and pigments. This composition results in a non-porous dining table surface that's highly resistant to stains and scratches.

On the other hand, sintered stone, while composed of 100% natural minerals, primarily inorganic clays, undergoes a high-tech manufacturing process that mimics the natural formation of stone. This results in an ultra-compact surface that is even more durable and resistant to heat, scratches and stains than quartz.

2. Contrasting Manufacturing Techniques

The manufacturing processes for quartz and sintered stone differ significantly. For one, quartz is created by mixing ground quartz crystals with resins and pigments. Then, the mixture is poured into moulds and cured under vacuum pressure and temperatures of about 110 degrees Celsius.

Sintered stone, on the other hand, undergoes a more intense process known as “sintering.” The natural minerals are compacted under immense pressure. Afterwards, they are fired at temperatures exceeding 1,200 degrees Celsius, resulting in a remarkably dense and durable material.

3. Visual Impact: Sintered Stone and Quartz Aesthetics

Both sintered stone and quartz offer a wide range of colours and patterns to match various interior design styles. However, they have subtle aesthetic differences:

• Thickness: Sintered stone slabs are typically available in thinner profiles compared to quartz, offering a sleek and modern look.
• Pattern Continuity: Due to its manufacturing process, sintered stone can achieve larger pattern repeats and veining continuity. But unlike sintered tops, quartz can have patterns that are visible throughout the slab, primarily due to the material’s thickness.
• Finishes: Both materials offer various finishes, from polished and matte to textured, providing versatility in design choices.

Shared Strengths: Why Sintered Stone and Quartz Are Top Choices

While their differences are noteworthy, both sintered stone and quartz share key attributes that make them a popular option for table tops. Here are some of their similar strengths that make them suitable for a wide range of dining spaces:

1. Benchmark of Durability

Both quartz and sintered stone dining tables exhibit impressive durability, allowing them to withstand the rigours of daily use. Plus, they're highly resistant to scratches, chips and stains, ensuring your dining table remains pristine for years to come. And because they can handle hot dishes and cookware without sustaining damage, they are ideal for bustling kitchens and frequent family gatherings.

2. Longevity and Maintenance

Investing in sintered stone or quartz dining tables offers long-term value. After all, their resilience to wear and tear also means care and maintenance for these furniture pieces is easy. In most instances, a quick wipe with a damp cloth is what you’ll need to keep these surfaces looking their best for a long time.

3. Style and Substance Combined

Whether your dining room exudes modern elegance or classic charm, both sintered stone and quartz dining tables offer a spectrum of designs and colours to complement your decor. From sleek, minimalist styles to bold, patterned options, these materials cater to diverse aesthetic preferences.

Making Your Choice

When choosing the right material for your dining table, you must balance style and practicality. And because sintered stone and quartz have unique strengths, they can cater to different needs and preferences. For instance, sintered stone is a good dining table option for those who prioritise aesthetic appeal that mimics those in nature and durability. On the other hand, if you’re after stain resistance and a more comprehensive range of colours, quartz could be your perfect match.

Ultimately, the ideal choice depends on your lifestyle, design vision and budget. And if you need help in choosing the right dining table, turn to FurnitureSG. With our extensive industry experience and wide collection of dining room tables, we can help you determine the option that will bring joy and functionality to your home for years to come.