What is quartz sinter? Should a facade be made of quartz sinter?

Quartz Sinter. Facades made from quartz sinters, such as those produced by Neolith, Laminam, Dekton by Cosentino, Silestone by Cosentino are increasingly popular in modern construction.Ceramic slabs.

Quartz Sinter: It is mainly composed of pure quartz (over 90%) combined with polymer resin. Quartz gives it hardness, while resin adds flexibility and facilitates shaping.

Here are some features and benefits associated with this material:

1. Material Properties: Quartz sinters are made from minerals and formed under heat. They are exceptionally resistant to scratches, UV radiation, extreme temperature changes, and moisture.
   

   ventilated facades

2. Aesthetics and Appearance: Quartz sinters are available in various colors and patterns, allowing for aesthetically attractive facades. They can mimic the appearance of concrete, wet plaster, wood, steel, and even natural stone.
3. Applications: Due to their unique properties, quartz sinters are ideal for use on facades of houses, offices, and other public utility buildings. They harmonize perfectly with other materials such as wood, glass, metal, or stone.
4. Ecology and Savings: Quartz sinters are easy to keep clean and free from moss and algae. Additionally, a Hydrotect layer can be applied to quartz sinters, which makes the panels self-cleaning, antibacterial, eliminates unpleasant odors, and positively impacts air quality.
5. Dimensions: With large panel sizes, quartz sinters allow for creating modern-style facades, but they will also look good in traditional architecture.

What is quartz sinter? Quartz panels for facades.

Quartz sinter, also known as synthetic quartz or quartz composite, is a material used in the production of kitchen countertops, wall cladding, floors, as well as other finishing elements in construction – including ventilated facades. It is an artificial material whose main component is pure quartz (silica), combined with polymer resin and sometimes additives such as pigments or minerals.

1. • Quartz (Silica): It is the main component of quartz sinter, usually constituting over 90% of the material’s mass. Quartz gives it hardness, durability, and scratch resistance.
   • Polymer Resin: Acts as a binder that connects the quartz crystals, giving the material flexibility and facilitating its shaping.
   • Additives: May include pigments, minerals, or other substances that influence the color, pattern, and other properties of quartz sinter. Production process of quartz sinters for facade use:
     • Mixing pure quartz with polymer resin.
     • Pouring the mixture into molds and subjecting it to high temperature and pressure during the sintering process.
     • Obtaining a quartz sinter plate or block ready for further processing.
2. Properties of quartz sinters:
   • Hardness: Quartz sinter is harder than many natural stones, making it resistant to scratches.
   • Stain resistance: Due to its dense structure, it is less porous than some other materials, making it resistant to stains.
   • Aesthetics: Available in various colors and patterns, allowing for diverse design projects.

Quartz sinter is valued for its aesthetic qualities, durability, and ease of maintenance. It is also an alternative to some natural stones, offering a consistent appearance and practical properties.

What is the difference between porcelain gres and quartz sinter?

Porcelain gres and quartz sinter are different types of materials used in the construction industry, especially for the production of kitchen countertops, floors, and wall cladding. Here are the main differences between porcelain gres and quartz sinter:

Chemical composition: Porcelain gres is made from a mixture of clay, quartz, feldspar, and kaolin, subjected to high pressure and temperature during the firing process. In contrast, quartz sinter consists mainly of pure quartz (over 90%) combined with polymer resin and sometimes additives. Additionally, stain resistance differs between gres and quartz sinters; gres is resistant to stains due to its dense structure, but certain substances can leave permanent stains, especially on matte surfaces. In contrast, quartz sinter due to its nearly non-porous structure, is less prone to staining.

Both materials are durable, easy to maintain, and offer aesthetic solutions for various construction projects. The choice between porcelain gres and quartz sinter depends on the specific needs of the project, design preferences, and the specifics of the application.

Is Quartz Sinter a Stone?

gray facade quartz sinter

Quartz sinter is an artificial finishing material, not a natural stone. It is a composite material mainly consisting of pure quartz (silica), polymer resin, and sometimes additives such as pigments or minerals.

Natural stones, like granite, marble, or slate, are formed through geological processes, and their structure results from mineral processes forming rocks over hundreds or thousands of years. These are usually homogeneous rock pieces extracted from quarries and processed for use in construction or finishing projects.

In the case of quartz sinter, it is artificially produced by combining pure quartz with polymer resin and processing it into a slab or block in the sintering process. The resulting material is hard, durable, has a uniform appearance, and is often used in finishing projects such as kitchen countertops, bathroom cladding, or flooring.

In summary, quartz sinter is an artificial composite, not a natural stone. Nevertheless, its physical and aesthetic properties make it a valued finishing material in many construction projects.

How to Recognize Quartz Sinter?

white quartz sinter

Recognizing quartz sinter can sometimes be challenging, especially when the material is well-made and has a smooth, uniform surface. However, there are a few features to look for when trying to identify quartz sinter:

1. Hardness:
   • Quartz sinter is known for its high hardness. If the material is very resistant to scratches, it may suggest the presence of quartz in its composition.
2. Surface:
   • Quartz sinter often has a uniform and smooth surface. If the material appears non-porous and dense, it may indicate the presence of quartz sinter.
3. Uniform Appearance:
   • Quartz sinter tends to have a homogeneous look without the distinct veining or patterns characteristic of some natural stones.
4. Lack or Minimal Water Absorption:
   • Quartz sinter is typically almost non-porous, meaning it has minimal water absorption. You can test this by dropping a small amount of water on the surface and observing whether it is absorbed.
5. Color and Patterns:
   • Quartz sinter is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, but it is characterized by uniformity. There are no visible inclusions or natural stone patterns.
6. Manufacturer’s Information:
   • Check the label, markings, or documentation provided by the manufacturer. Information regarding the composition and properties of the material may be available there.
7. Chemical Test:
   • On a small, inconspicuous area, you can try a chemical test, such as dropping acid on the stone. Quartz sinter is usually resistant to acids, unlike some other materials.

If you have any doubts about the type of material, it’s always best to consult a professional or the manufacturer, who can provide precise information about the product. It’s also worth checking the documentation and certificates provided by the manufacturer, which may contain information about the composition and properties of the material.

How to Care for Quartz Sinter?

quartz sinter facade

Caring for quartz sinter can help maintain its aesthetics and durability. Here are some general tips for caring for quartz sinter:

1. Daily Cleaning:
   • Daily cleaning of quartz sinter with a damp cloth or sponge will help remove daily dirt and contaminants.
2. Avoiding Strong Chemicals:
   • Avoid using aggressive or abrasive cleaners, such as acid-based cleaners or abrasive substances. Choose gentle cleaners designed for quartz surfaces.
3. Protection from High Temperatures:
   • Although quartz sinter is resistant to stains and scratches, direct contact with very hot dishes should be avoided. Always use thermal pads to protect the surface.
4. Protection from Impacts:
   • Avoid hitting sharp or heavy objects directly on the quartz sinter surface to avoid potential scratches or damage.
5. Immediate Stain Removal:
   • Try to remove stains as quickly as possible to prevent them from being absorbed by the surface. Gently remove stains using mild detergents and a sponge.
6. Protection from Chemicals:
   • Avoid contact with aggressive chemicals, such as strong acids or bases. In case of accidental contact, immediately rinse the surface with water.
7. Preventing Scratches:
   • Use cutting boards to avoid direct contact of knives with the quartz sinter surface.
8. Regular Maintenance:
   • Regular cleaning and maintenance can help keep quartz sinter looking beautiful for longer. If necessary, use care products dedicated to quartz surfaces.

It’s also worth following the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance, as different brands and products may have slightly different requirements. Remember that proper care can extend the durability and attractiveness of quartz sinter.

What Does Quartz Sinter Look Like?

pool quartz sinter
Quartz sinter, due to its production, can take various forms and patterns depending on the manufacturer and specific model. However, generally speaking, quartz sinter has a uniform, smooth, and rather noble appearance. Here are some characteristic features you can expect to see in quartz sinter:

1. Uniform Color: Quartz sinter is available in a wide range of colors, from neutral to more intense. It is characterized by a uniform, consistent color without prominent veins or stains, often found in some natural stones.
2. Smooth Surface: This material typically has a smooth surface, making it attractive in finishing projects.
3. Lack of Distinct Stone Patterns: Unlike some natural stones, such as granite or marble, quartz sinter often does not have the characteristic patterns or structures specific to a particular type of stone.
4. Design Options: Although quartz sinter is uniform, manufacturers often offer various design options, including imitations of natural stones, solid colors, or even stylized patterns.
5. Gloss or Matte Finish: Quartz sinter is available in both polished (high gloss) and matte versions. The choice between them depends on aesthetic preferences.
6. Variety of Thicknesses: Kitchen countertops or other surfaces made from quartz sinter are available in various thicknesses depending on the specific application.

Are Quartz Facade Panels Durable?

Yes, quartz sinter is recognized as a durable and robust material. Its durability stems from the combination of its ingredients, primarily pure quartz (silica) and polymer resin. Quartz sinters are produced using a unique technological process that utilizes natural clay raw materials, granites, metamorphic rocks, and ceramic pigments. These materials are densified during the forming process, pressed, and sintered at 1200°C. Standards and norms for quartz surface materials, such as ISFA 3-01 (2013), cover the performance of quartz surface products. This standard aims to provide architects, specifiers, manufacturers, fabricators, and consumers with minimum requirements for quartz surface materials.

Which Adhesive to Use for Bonding Quartz Sinters?

white quartz sinter

Special adhesives designed for this purpose are typically used for bonding quartz sinters. These adhesives are flexible, durable, and provide a strong bond between the individual sinters. It is important to note that the choice of adhesive may depend on the specific product, so it’s always worth checking the recommendations of the quartz sinter manufacturer. Below is a general overview of several types of adhesives commonly used for bonding quartz sinters:

1. Epoxy Adhesives:
   • Epoxy adhesives are commonly used for bonding quartz sinters. They are durable, flexible, and moisture-resistant. It is important to choose an epoxy adhesive suitable for indoor applications and safe for food contact if used in the kitchen.
2. Modified Cement-Based Adhesives:
   • These adhesives contain a mixture of cement, resins, and additives. They are durable and moisture-resistant. They can be used for bonding quartz sinters outdoors or in higher humidity areas.
3. Acrylic-Based Adhesives:
   • Acrylic adhesives are flexible and moisture-resistant. They are relatively easy to use, but it is worth checking if they are suitable for bonding quartz sinters.
4. Cyanoacrylate Adhesives (Super Glues):
   • Super glues can be used for bonding quartz sinters, especially for small repairs. However, due to their quick bonding, they can sometimes be difficult to apply precisely.
5. Specialized Adhesives:
   • In some cases, quartz sinter manufacturers also offer dedicated adhesives or bonding systems tailored to their specific products. This is especially important on building facades. Therefore, large quartz sinter panels are often bonded to facades using the SIKA Tack Panel system. Pay attention to the recommendations of the specific quartz sinter manufacturer.

Before using any adhesive, always check the information and recommendations of the quartz sinter manufacturer. Ensure that the adhesive is suitable for the given environment and meets the product’s requirements. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations ensures the best durability and bonding effectiveness.

How Important Are the Aesthetics and Appearance of Quartz Sinters?

Quartz sinters are exceptionally diverse in terms of available colors and patterns, making them ideal for customizing the appearance of facades.

1. Diversity of Colors and Patterns: Quartz sinters are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, providing great freedom in designing facades. For example, 5114 Calacatta Maximus is a popular pattern that combines a white background with warm, neutral colors. Another popular pattern, 5151 Empira White, has a delicate, refined pattern with a pure white base touched by shadows, movement, and color. The product range of quartz sinters can be categorized into several color groups: Neutral Shades: Quartz sinters are available in various neutral shades, such as whites, beiges, grays, and blacks. These colors are versatile and fit many architectural styles. Earth Tones: Earth tones, such as browns and sands, are also popular, giving facades a natural and warm look. Intense Colors: For those who prefer bolder color choices, quartz sinters are available in intense shades like reds, blues, and greens. Metallic Effects: Some quartz sinters offer metallic effects, adding elegance and modernity. Design groups can also include: Marble Effects: For those who appreciate the look of marble, quartz sinters offer patterns and textures that mimic natural marble. Wood Imitations: Quartz sinters are also available in wood-like variants, providing a warm and cozy facade appearance. Shapes and Structures: Some quartz sinters offer various shapes and structures, adding depth and an interesting look to facades. Minimalist Patterns: For minimalism enthusiasts, quartz sinters are available in simple patterns and uniform textures.

Installing quartz sinters on facades can be done in two ways. The first method is to directly adhere the panels to the insulation. The second method is to adhere quartz sinters to an aluminum substructure, known as a ventilated facade. Thanks to their unique properties, such as scratch resistance, UV resistance, large temperature changes, and moisture resistance, quartz sinters are ideal for use on facades.

The cost of ventilated facades made from quartz sinters can depend on many factors, such as the material, its size, installation method, number of openings, building height, edge and joint finishing, and the amount of waste.

Compared to other popular facade materials, the costs of quartz sinter facades may be higher. However, it is worth noting that while initial costs may be higher, long-term maintenance costs can be lower. Quartz sinters are easy to keep clean and free from moss and algae. An additional layer, Hydrotect, can be applied to quartz sinters, making the panels self-cleaning, antibacterial, eliminating unpleasant odors, and positively impacting air quality. As a result, quartz sinter facades are both ecological and economical.

Ecology. Recycling Quartz Sinters: Quartz sinters are made from natural clay raw materials, granites, metamorphic rocks, and ceramic pigments. As such, they can be fully recycled and reused.

Most Popular Facade Systems:

THERMOLAM®– ready-made thermal insulation panel of size 1500×500 mm

The THERMOLAM® facade system combines the exceptional elegance and beauty of LAMINAM® panels with the unique, innovative, and comprehensive facade system properties of THERMOLAM®. Thanks to the capabilities of the new THERMOLAM® technology, the facade is manufactured in the factory under conditions that guarantee quality, parameter consistency, and full process control.

PIR facade

 

 

The set of products for insulating external walls with prefabricated facade panels has the National Technical Assessment ITB-KOT-2017/0087.

1. Laminam: Italian manufacturer, leader in innovative quartz sinters.
2. Neolith: Spanish company specializing in the production of large ceramic slabs, including quartz sinters.
3. Dekton by Cosentino: Global producer, offering durable and aesthetic quartz sinters.
4. Silestone by Cosentino: Another offering from Cosentino, characterized by high quality and color diversity.

If you are interested in ordering quartz sinters for your ventilated facade project, we encourage you to contact us at m3ziolek. We are experienced specialists in ventilated facades and will be happy to help you choose the best solutions for your project.

You can contact us through our website, email, or phone. Our experts are available to answer all your questions and help you understand how quartz sinters can transform the look of your building.

Don’t wait, contact us today and learn more about how we can help you realize your architectural visions! We look forward to hearing from you!