Asbestos was banned in Australia due to its links with deadly lung disease silicosis. Now workers cutting engineered stone may be at risk too. The Australian Workers’ Union has called for improved safety measures and a ban on products containing respirable crystalline silica.
A new kitchen benchtop can transform a home’s design and functionality. But there are some important things to consider.
Sydney Stone Benchtops
With increasing media coverage about the toxicity of engineered stone and rising silicosis cases, many people have been calling for a ban on it. However, industry experts argue that a ban is not the answer. Instead, they advocate for better health and safety measures. They also point out that respirable crystalline silica is found in a range of natural products and can cause lung problems, including silicosis.
While there have been some efforts to reduce the risks, it is still too early to ban engineered stone. A recent study by Curtin University predicts 103,000 Australian workers will be diagnosed with silicosis in their lifetime. The alarming figures have led to an increased number of stonemasons suing their employers for not providing them with a safe working environment.
Marble is a Natural Stone that is prized worldwide for its elegance and luxury aura. Its elegant veining and colour variations make it ideal for kitchen benchtops, splashbacks and cabinetry cladding. It is harder than Quartzite and less prone to etching, although it is susceptible to heat damage. CDK Stone stocks a wide range of Marble from across the world with Calacatta and Carrara being the most sought-after styles.
A popular alternative to Marble is Dolomite. It is a grey or white stone with some variations featuring light brown. Its chemical properties make it suitable for bathroom, vanities and flooring applications. It is also resistant to scratching and impact damage.
Stone Benchtop Price Sydney
A stone benchtop is a luxurious addition to your kitchen. But it can also be expensive. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider other options. One alternative is a synthetic or faux stone benchtop. These products are durable and easy to maintain. They are available in a variety of colours and finishes. Some of them are even heat and stain resistant. You can use them for a variety of purposes in your home, from kitchens to bathrooms.
Natural stone benchtops can be very expensive, especially if you opt for marble. You can expect to spend between $250 and $1,700 per square meter, including installation costs. But the price varies from company to company, so you should compare quotes before making a decision.
You should be aware of any potential risks before installing a stone benchtop in your Sydney home. If you are not sure about the installer’s qualifications, you can check with local authorities to ensure they are licenced to carry out this work. You should also be aware of any health and safety requirements that may apply. For example, you may need a builder’s licence or minor trade work license. You should also know if the installer is insured in case of any injuries or accidents.
If you’re looking for a beautiful, durable kitchen benchtop, consider quartzite. It is a popular choice for benchtops because it offers the beauty of natural stone with the durability of engineered stone. It’s also resistant to stains and scratches, so it won’t show wear and tear. It is also suitable for high-traffic areas.
Another option for your Sydney kitchen is a granite benchtop. It’s highly durable and long-lasting, but it can be costly. It’s best to choose a granite that is heat and stain-resistant. In addition, you should consider the cost of installation and other related expenses.
You can also get a concrete benchtop for your Sydney kitchen. These are extremely hard-wearing, and they can have sinks and vanities made as part of the benchtop. They’re usually pre-cast offsite and delivered to your site, but bespoke designs can be poured on-site.
Stone Benchtops Sydney
Stone benchtops are an excellent addition to any kitchen. Not only do they look beautiful, but they also provide a sturdy work surface that is resistant to heat and scratches. In addition, they are easy to clean and stain-resistant. If you have a stone benchtop, you should follow a regular cleaning routine to maintain its beauty and functionality.
There are many different types of stone benchtops in Sydney. The most popular are made from engineered stone, such as quartz. These surfaces are made from crushed quartz granules combined with resin and pigment to create the desired design. They are more durable than natural stone and come with a 25-year warranty. Ross’s Discount Home Centre offers several options, including Silestone, which is available in a range of colours and finishes.
However, there are risks associated with working with this material. The dust from cutting stone can aggravate respiratory conditions. In fact, silicosis cases have been mounting in recent years, with workers suing their employers for failing to provide a safe workplace. Some have even reached confidential settlements. Fortunately, stonemasons can protect themselves by using wet sawing techniques, which limit the release of dust. However, dry cutting is still legal in some states.
Types Of Stone Benchtops
There are a number of different stone benchtops available in Sydney. Some are made from natural stone while others are engineered and manufactured. Some are cheaper than others, but all provide a durable work surface and add a premium value to the home. There are also a variety of finishes and colours to choose from. Some of the most popular include marble, quartzite, granite, and dolomite.
Quartz is one of the world’s hardest minerals and is therefore suitable for kitchen benchtops. It is also heat, scratch and stain resistant. Quartz is also nonporous and doesn’t require regular sealing. Quartz is available in a wide range of colours and styles, with some even resembling the appearance of natural stone.
Reconstituted stone, or engineered stone, is a type of man-made stone that is composed of crushed aggregates, resins and pigments. It’s a popular choice for many homeowners as it can be matched to virtually any interior design style. It’s also much cheaper than natural stone and is easier to install, making it an ideal alternative for those on a tight budget.
Some of the most popular types of stone benchtops in Sydney are made from quartz. These are manufactured from quartz granules mixed with a blend of colour pigments and resins to create each unique design. This makes them a highly durable option that is easy to clean and maintain. Quartz surfaces are also available in a range of colours to suit any kitchen style.
Other types of stone benchtops in Sydney include dolomite, travertine and sandstone. The latter is a more affordable option and can be used for kitchen benchtops, splashbacks, bathroom vanities, walls, fireplaces and outdoor cladding. It’s resistant to etching and impact damage and is less prone to scratches than natural stone.
Granite is a beautiful, natural stone that is durable and hardwearing. It’s also a popular choice for kitchen benchtops, as it can withstand high temperatures and resist stains. It’s available in a variety of shades and patterns, with black, grey and white being the most popular options. CDK Stone stocks a wide range of Granite from around the world, with Calacatta and Carrara being the most sought-after styles.
