The most successful solution for window design is a window sill made of artificial stone. It is inexpensive and practically does not differ in technical characteristics from natural material, and sometimes even surpasses it in aesthetic qualities, allowing using dyes to create various patterns that are not found in nature.
What is artificial stone
Mineral filler and polymer resins are the main components of such a stone. When combined, they form a very durable and heat-resistant material. An artificial stone is almost indistinguishable from natural.
Advantages of artificial stone windowsill
Seamless and non-porous structure is the main feature of artificial stone. This eliminates the appearance of microcracks, pores and joints on the windowsill, preventing various bacteria and fungus from multiplying.
The components that make up the artificial stone make it very strong and durable. A window sill made of artificial stone will last for many years, because it is extremely resistant to high temperatures, chemical and coloring substances.
The completely smooth surface of the window sill makes it easier to care for and maintain. She is not afraid of moisture, is easy to clean, without leaving stains and stains.
An extensive color scheme allows you to implement any design idea, harmoniously using window sills made of artificial stone in the interior. Photos presented in the catalogs of various construction companies will help you choose the option that matches the plan.
Artificial stone does not emit harmful substances. Unlike a cold natural analogue, it has high heat resistance, which helps to maintain heat in the apartment.
Such window sills are more affordable and costly - the price of artificial stone is much lower than its natural counterparts.
Types of stone
Acrylic stone is used most often in construction. Its basis is acrylic resin in combination with additional fillers. A feature of a window sill made using such a stone is its unique design.
The cheaper polyester stone can be processed worse, therefore it is suitable for the manufacture of window sills of a rectangular shape only. The polyester resin included in its composition has a not very pleasant smell, which for some time still persists after installation.
Quartz agglomerate for the most part consists of natural fillers. It contains natural quartz and decorative additives. Therefore, the performance of such a windowsill is much higher. Quartz is quite resistant to all kinds of physical and chemical damage.
Cast marble is more suitable for making countertops. This is a type of liquid stone, characterized by special strength and durability.
Selection tips
A window sill made of artificial stone can be not only a part of the interior, but also a special decorative decoration of the room. For its harmonious combination with furniture and window frames, it is necessary to take into account color and texture, as well as physical characteristics. For example, with light plastic windows, a massive stone window sill would be completely inappropriate. It is worth paying attention to the number of veins in the stone - the fewer they are, the stronger it is. The choice of material is best done directly at the manufacturer. This will avoid possible inconsistencies when you have to install window sills made of artificial stone. Photos posted on the Internet sometimes distort the color and texture of materials.
Functionality
Thanks to a large selection of colors and shapes of the material, modern designers have the opportunity to create a unique interior that emphasizes the individuality of the apartment. An artificial stone window sill can serve as an additional shelf. The roomy space allows you to create an entire greenhouse of indoor flowers on it if you wish. In public places, window sills are often used as seats, so making them requires more durable material that is easy to clean. But wherever they are installed, everywhere they look very luxurious and prestigious.
Attracts the consumer and the cost of artificial stone. More expensive types of material, for example, quartz stone, are used where strength and resistance to mechanical stress are especially important. Tabletops are mainly made from it.
Window sills made of artificial stone, which is cheaper, nevertheless fully satisfy all operational requirements. With proper installation, they can last for many years, and in the future they can easily be restored.
The low price for such window sills makes them quite affordable for any consumer. It ranges from 300 to 700 dollars per meter, depending on the type and shape of the material.