
What is Engineered Stone: Understanding the Shift to Silica-Free Options
You might be asking, “What is engineered stone?” Engineered stone is artificial granite; during recent years, it has been gaining plenty of popularity due to its low maintenance and endurance.
However, it remains crucial to understand it and its safety evolutions because of the potential dangers that they have.
Keep reading this blog to learn more!
What is Engineered Stone?
Engineered stone is a man made granite that occupies a wide scope, including engineered quartz, polymer concrete, and engineered marble stone. It is produced from 90% crushed quartz, and with a polymer resin, its materials are bound. The last 10% of its components are extra materials, such as mirrors, metals, shells, and coloured glass, which are added to give the material more visual appeal.
Some products may have up to 90-95% silica content in them. The crystalline silica has two forms: amorphous silica (which is relatively safer), and crystalline silica, which is harmful when ingested. Thus, when quartz products and these products are cut, polished, or ground, these particulars are dangerous when airborne and ingested as they can result in health issues such as the development of lung cancer, and silicosis.
Compared to other materials, engineered stone is durable, with a resistance to heat, stains, and scratches, culminating in widespread use, especially in the following:
- Countertops
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Commercial spaces
- Engineered stone benchtops
Why the Shift to Silica-Free Engineered Stone?
- Health risks of silica exposure: Ingesting even the tiniest crystalline silica particulars can lead to a wide scope of severe health issues, like silicosis, which is an incurable lung disease. Other health conditions crystalline silica causes are lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and kidney disease. The Australian government has banned the supply, usage and manufacture of engineered stone products under new work health and safety laws, while in California, health authorities have reported 180 cases of silicosis among countertop fabricators over a span of less than six years, leading to a minimum of 13 fatalities.
- Environmental concerns related to silica: Sand and water mining for silica opens the environment for chemicals and/or bacteria to penetrate the groundwater more easily.
- The growing trend towards safer, silica-free options: Companies that produce engineered stone products have started marketing safer alternatives with less silica content compared to the original engineered granite and stone. This also allows these companies to remain “in” the market.
Advantages of Silica-Free Engineered Stone
- Health benefits: Silica-free alternatives help eliminate health concerns. They are an alternative to traditional quartz benchtops (which contain crystalline silica, a dangerous substance that can cause disease and death). As a result, you can ensure a safe environment for installers and homeowners.
- Environmental impact reduction: Silica-free options use silica-free and recycled materials, which can greatly lower environmental impact.
- Performance and durability of silica-free options: Silica-free options are also durable and resistant to heat and stains.
Conclusion
The shift to safer, silica-free engineered stone is not just a trend—it’s a necessary change for healthier, more sustainable homes. Contact us today to learn more about our premium silica-free options and create a healthier, more stylish kitchen!

Corey Cameron, Director of McColl Cabinetmakers, brings with him 25 years of experience in cabinetmaking and home renovations. This extensive exposure to hands-on work has ensured the highest standards in home and bathroom renovations.