As consumers gravitate more to in-home entertaining and activities, the kitchen has now, more than ever, become the focal point for family get togethers and social entertaining. The kitchen industry has responded to the need for products and finishes that are elegant, yet functional and easy to maintain. One such product is engineered stone counter tops.

A relatively new technology for counter tops, this surface is becoming popular because of its strength and durability and ease of maintenance.

“Engineered stone is really natural stone made better with technology,” explains Tracy Maxwell of Granite Transformations located in Oakville. “We start with natural granite or quartz, depending on the application. We cut the actual slab of stone into smaller stones then we add a polymer and the resin is infused right through the counter top.”

The result is a counter top that is heat resistant, doesn’t scratch, is highly resistant to bacterial contamination and, most importantly, doesn’t stain like other types of materials. For example, ordinary stone is very porous, so spills from red wine and vinegars will stain it as will oils and butters.

“Once stains are in, it’s very difficult to get out,” Maxwell adds. “Engineered stone is resistant to those things. You don’t have to seal it; no annual maintenance is required and, best of all you don’t have to worry about your counter top being ruined at a party.

The great feature of this counter top is that it’s only ¼ inch thick, so it can be installed just over top an existing counter top. It is recommended however, that a professional install it.

“We’re done in a day,” Maxwell says. “And when you get home from work you can cook in your new kitchen.”

Engineered stone comes in dozens of colours, from natural granite to pastel hues making it easy to match the colours in any kitchen.

To learn more about this versatile counter top material visit Granite Transformations at www.granitetransformations.ca.