• For gas cooktops: A minimum distance of 200 mm is required from the edge of the gas burner to the Lavistone Gen Surface splashback, in accordance with AS/NZ 5601 Gas Installations.
• For induction cooktops: A minimum distance of 50 mm is required from the splashback to the heat source.

If your splashback distance does not meet these requirements, please consider using Larona porcelain or our Natural stone range.

Cracks are generally not covered under Lavistone’s Warranty, as they are most often caused by issues during fabrication or installation, or by mechanical stress. These types of cracks are not considered defects in the Lavistone product itself.

If you notice a crack, we recommend contacting the kitchen company or stonemason who completed the installation, as they will be best positioned to assist you further.

Common external factors that can lead to cracking include:

• Insufficient support beneath the benchtop
• Incorrectly positioned cutouts or joins
• Failure to allow for thermal expansion, thermal shock, or exposure to excessive heat
• Significant physical impact

Using large-format porcelain for splashbacks offers several benefits:

1. Seamless Appearance: Large-format porcelain reduces the need for multiple tiles or panels, minimizing visible grout lines and creating a sleek, seamless look that enhances the aesthetics of the kitchen or bathroom.
2. Easy Maintenance: With fewer grout lines, large-format porcelain splashbacks are easier to clean and maintain. Grout can be prone to staining, but the reduced amount makes cleaning simpler and keeps the area looking fresh.
3. Durability and Resistance: Porcelain is highly durable, heat-resistant, and scratch-resistant, making it an ideal choice for splashbacks that are exposed to cooking splatters, heat, and moisture.
4. Water and Stain Resistance: Porcelain is non-porous, which means it resists water, stains, and bacteria. This makes it perfect for areas prone to spills and splashes, ensuring the surface remains hygienic and easy to clean.
5. Design Versatility: Large-format porcelain comes in a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes, allowing for versatile design options. It can mimic the look of marble, stone, or concrete, providing a high-end look without the maintenance requirements of natural stone.
6. Lightweight: Despite being large in size, porcelain slabs are relatively lightweight compared to natural stone, making them easier to install as a single piece and reducing installation time.
7. Cost-Effectiveness: Large porcelain slabs can sometimes be more affordable than natural stone alternatives, especially when considering the lower maintenance costs over time.

The main differences between sintered stone and porcelain lie in their composition, production process, and intended use. While they share some similarities, especially as durable materials used for countertops and surfaces, they have key distinctions:

• Composition
  • Sintered Stone: Sintered stone is made by blending natural minerals like quartz, feldspar, and other raw materials. These materials are compacted and exposed to extremely high heat and pressure, creating a dense and strong material. Sintered stone may include natural elements found in both stone and ceramics.
  • Porcelain: Porcelain is a ceramic material, typically composed of kaolin clay, feldspar, and silica. It is fired at high temperatures to become extremely hard and non-porous, focusing more on clay-based compositions as part of the ceramic family.

• Production Process
  • Sintered Stone: The term “sintered” refers to a process where particles are fused together at a molecular level through intense heat and pressure, without needing binders. This process replicates the natural formation of stone under high pressure and heat but in a much shorter timeframe.
  • Porcelain: Porcelain is made through traditional ceramic methods, where the material is molded, dried, and then fired at high temperatures to achieve hardness. However, porcelain does not undergo the same pressure-intensive process as sintered stone.

Yes, minor damage such as chips can definitely be repaired. As porcelain products become more widely used, repair technologies have continued to improve. For more information or assistance, feel free to contact Lavistone team.

Yes, most natural stone surfaces benefit from sealing to protect against staining, moisture absorption, and general wear. Here’s a quick overview of common natural stones and their recommended sealing frequency:

1. Granite: Often needs sealing every 1-2 years.
2. Marble: Typically requires sealing every 6-12 months.
3. Travertine, Limestone, and Sandstone: Usually needs sealing every 6-12 months.
4. Dolomite: Often needs sealing every 1-2 years.
5. Quartzite: More stain-resistant but sealing every 1-2 years can help maintain its appearance.

Sealing helps repel liquids, making it easier to clean and maintain the natural beauty of the stone over time.