Ok, so we don't need engineered stone in our kitchen, as we have it there already, but we just had more of the same stone installed in our new powder room & ensuite to match the kitchen's earthy colour scheme. We do, however, need to choose a natural granite for our alfresco kitchen as engineered stones are not covered by manufactures' warranty in our situation. So, I stick with engineered and natural stones for the long term bench top of choice.

Hi all our terrazzo bench has been installed and in use for over 12 months. This bench was poured in Italy and then finished by a stonemason off-site type. When 1st installed I spilt some lemon juice which created a mark so we are careful not to use acidic items on the bench. I am not sure if this happened before or after we sealed it but I think it’s important to seal any natural stone product and we used the sellers recommended product called “slow drying sure seal” but I won’t vouch for its effectiveness as I can’t compare it to anything. Over all we love the look but I think you need to be a little more careful around natural products than engineered ones so it may depend on your lifestyle

Hi, Ali, I eventually went ahead and had the stone overlay on my kitchen benches and splashback. I am absolutely delighted with the result, and am so pleased I had it done. It has given a completely refurbished look to the kitchen; there was no collateral damage to the cupboards; no having to take the old tiles down from the existing splashback; I didn't change my cooktop or sink (just had the same ones put back in) and I couldn't be happier. The only benchtop which was completely replaced was the long one at the front. It was widened to make a breakfast bar. My previous benchtops were a dark mottled laminate and the splashback was cream subway tiles with a frieze. Very dated. I've attached a before and after photo (the timber venetians at the window have since been replaced with a white holland blind, which looks so much better. If you're in Sydney I can give you the name of the company that did it for me.

We have this product as benchtop and backsplash coming up for 2 years. I think a sealer would ruin the beautiful honed finish. It is easy to clean - Enjo cloths and water has worked great for oil, red wine, tomato paste, curry powder. Marble paste gets the grey ‘pencil marks’ from the bottom of plates off no problem.