Zero-Silica Alternatives

With the much talked about upcoming ban on engineered stone, there have been numerous discussions and articles about alternatives to consider. One notable observation has been a consistent oversight of solid surface products such as Staron making the list of alternatives. Used in both commercial and residential projects, Staron Solid Surfaces are an excellent alternative to engineered stone products.

Header Image: Design AM Interiors | Photographed by Brock Beasely

Given the lack of promotion as an alternative to engineered stone surfaces, this article looks at Staron and how it compares to other known surfaces alternatives. There are many great product options to choose from. However, for various reasons it may be beneficial to layering these alternatives with Staron Solid Surfaces to achieve the ultimate fit-out solution.

Staron has been a zero-silica product from the beginning, available in Australia even before engineered stone was a popular option. Developed in 1992, Staron is manufactured from refined bauxite, a silica-free mineral, and is blended with pure acrylic resin, resulting in a high-performance and safe solid surface. Thanks to its non-porous nature, Staron is both stain-resistant and easy to clean, offering a durable, hygienic surface with high-strength and UV stability.

Looking at the residential sector, Staron has been incorporated into many award-winning homes, and at the same time been embraced for more traditional style kitchens. The beauty of Staron is that it can be showcased within benchtops, for both practicality and aesthetics, in its entirety or paired with other surfaces. Staron can also be easily thermoformed into graceful curves and routed to customise vertical applications.

If reviewing the below surfaces for a project, consider pairing with Staron for increased durability, enhanced aesthetics or improved cost-effectiveness.

LAMINATE

For more budget-orientated projects, Laminate is the go-to material for many joinery applications. Laminate is a great product with many designs to select from, though there are limitations when it comes to wet zones and exterior applications.

When planning a kitchen on a budget, it is tempting to flow laminate to all countertops. Although it may seem to be a cost saving option at first, it may be costly for applications that experience the ill effects of too much water.

Consider pairing Staron Solid Surfaces in targeted wet zones. Impervious to issues from high moisture, Staron will provide a more serviceable countertop solution over the long term. Also, with its excellent UV stability, Staron flows easily to outdoor areas as well.

Compared to Laminate, Staron does not suffer water damage and is UV stable.

Design Consultant | Photographed by Jamie Caputo

TIMBER

Timber offers a unique charm and warmth, but like laminate, there can ultimately be issues if timber is subjected to too much water over time. Therefore, it may not be a practical selection for some zones in the kitchen or bathroom.

Timber and Staron share many similar attributes, both are soft and silky to touch and offer a warm feel. Consider finishing Staron in a matt finish to compliment an earthy timber choice. In addition, both options are noise absorbing, making the combination of timber with Staron not only practical but also aesthetically and acoustically pleasing.

Like timber, Staron is renewable, repairable and easy to upcycle into other applications.

RM Clayton Joinery

PORCELAIN

The designs of Porcelain are plentiful and can add a striking feature in any kitchen project, making it an ideal surface for adding visual impact. However, as a work surface it can be clunky, with its glass-like noise it may be distracting and overwhelming for anyone with hearing impairment.

Staron offers a quieter surface for food prep, a thoughtful consideration when used in open plan homes.

Compared to porcelain, Staron is easier to manufacture, not prone to chipping and is repairable.

Minosa Design

STAINLESS STEEL

Like Stainless Steel, Staron offers moulded and seamless design options, with fully integrated sinks, splashbacks, tile coves and anti-drip edges. Stainless Steel provides a no-fuss and sterile food preparation solution. But for those seeking a large colour pallet it may not tick all the boxes. Paired with Staron, the choices in colour selection are extended while still retaining the moulded and seamless design abilities that may be a priority in your project.

Compared to stainless steel, Staron offers a large selection of colours and is non-reflective.

Design Sublime Group

NATURAL STONE

Natural Stone is attractive and unique; a beautiful material for personalising a kitchen. However, being porous it does require sealing when used in food preparation areas. Partnering Staron with Natural Stone takes the stress out of the ongoing maintenance of sealing food prep areas and provides a fuss-free work surface.

Compared to natural stone, Staron is nonporous, seamless, lightweight, hygienic and warm to the touch.

Concepts by Gavin Hepper

STARON

Whether used alone or in combination with other materials, Staron Solid Surface brings numerous benefits to home projects. Its versatility shines, especially in challenging renovations or complex construction situations. A value adding product, Staron is a renewable and repairable surface. After years of use, it can be easily sanded and restored to its original condition.

Darren James Interiors

For more information, visit Staron Solid Surfaces