CASCADES STONE has the expertise in the use of the following materials:
Granite is an igneous rock formed from magma deep within the earth’s crust, granite is generally composed of quartz and feldspar providing high range hardness. In recent years discoveries of so called ‘New Granites’ have introduced vibrant and amazing opportunities in colours and patterns, no longer limiting the range in granite to only homogeneous patterns.
Marble is a metamorphic rock resulting from the metamorphism of limestone formed under immense heat and pressure. The mainly calcite composition is recognised by its characteristic swirls and veins deriving from various mineral impurities originally present as grains or layers in the limestone. Of mid-range hardness (approx. MOHS 3–4), marble is ideally suited for bathroom tops, walls and flooring. Marble’s uniqueness makes it desirable for kitchen tops, but care and maintenance needs to be a consideration when choosing this stone.
Engineered stone is created from up to 90% natural quartz aggregates, organic pigments and enhanced polymer resins. It provides a surface with exceptional properties of heat, stain, scratch and chip resistance. The exceptional beauty, strength and durability of quartz ensures a product that is far superior to natural stone and other manufactured surfaces.
Porcelain is a ceramic product that, through a highly technological process, fuses raw materials using intense temperatures and extreme pressure. The result is a permanently hardened, ultracompact surface that is versatile, non-porous, UV-stable and hygienic. Unlike quartz, porcelain is ideal for outdoor spaces as well as interior applications, such as kitchen benchtops and splashback panels, sinks, tables and bathroom vanities. Porcelain offers a large slab format that makes it a popular choice for vertical applications such as wall panelling and building facades. Porcelain is composed of a blend of approximately 30% clay, 15% quartz and 45% feldspar, with no glues or resins used.
Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed largely of calcite. Limestone often resembles untouched beds of the ocean with displays of remaining shells and corals. Commonly, it is produced in a honed finish, as most are not able to take a high polish due to its delicate nature. Limestone displays hues of soft ivory to subtle browns and greys, which compliment any coastal surrounds. A low to mid-range hardness allows these stones to be used internally and some limestones, also externally.
Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed of sand-size grains of mineral, rock, or organic material. It also contains a cementing material that binds the sand grains together and may contain a matrix of silt- or clay-size particles that occupy the spaces between the sand grains. Deposits of sand that eventually form sandstone are delivered to the basin by rivers, but may also be delivered by the action of waves or wind. Some sand grains might be organic particles, such as sand and shell debris produced within the basin.
Travertine is quarried from ancient hot mineral springs in exotic lands. Travertine is a banded, more compact form of Limestone, characterised by the many holes and chambers evident through the stone. It varies in colour from dusty white to silver-grey, to gold, coral red and toffee, available filled, unfilled, honed or polished creating a classy and sophisticated appearance.