Enameled lava stone is a highly luxurious product extracted from volcanic lava stone and glazed with enamel. This product is fired in a kiln at 1300 degrees to create a beautiful, smooth crackled finish. It is a relatively new product to market and is quite durable; it is highly resistant to stains and scratching.
Cost
Enameled lava stone is mostly produced in France by a limited amount of suppliers and due to the lack of manufacturers involved in glazing this stone, it is a very expensive product, well over $200 a sq. ft installed. If you can afford it, consider this option because it can be opulent.
Color/ Design
As this stone is enameled, it can be available in a range of colors. Some draw backs are its glossy finish. If you are not looking for that shiny, glossy look, enameled lava stone is available in matte finishes however they are limited. Because it can look very similar to glass, it will reflect light beautifully over large surface areas. Many wash basins, bathroom counter tops and sinks are being designed from an enameled lava stone perspective.
Durability
Enameled lava stone is a highly durable and low maintenance product. It is extremely stain and heat resistant and does not require a sealant. It has also been known to be used in outdoor areas because of its resistance to extremely cold temperatures. Its glossy finish can lead to some scratching on the surface, but, with proper use and some diligence on your part, you can enjoy enameled lava stone for a life time.
Construction/Installation
We always recommend that installation be done by professionals especially when working with stone. This particular product is pre-fabricated and shipped pre-cut by a laser saw. Manufacturers can work with your personal bathroom designs to custom make any enameled lava stone counter top you desire. Visit a sanctioned installer to get the best results. One of the primary manufacturers of enameled lava stone is Pyrolave, a company out of France that specializes in this beautiful product.
Environment/Health
Enameled stone is obviously created using enamels and therefore does have an impact on the environment due to waste by products. It is not particularly recyclable, but pre-fabricated pieces or designs can be re-used in other homes, kitchens or bathrooms if you have a good salvage source and are not restricted by color.
Since this product is enameled it becomes a wonderfully hygienic material rejecting mold and mildew easily.
The Oops Factor
Outstanding!! Enameled lava is very durable, shiny and stain repellent. a great choice if hygiene is a concern in your home
In Conclusion, Lava stone is sexy to look at, wicked to the touch and a beauty to use in any sexy room. It works great as a bar top, sink, kitchen counter top and of course as a bathroom counter top. Since it resembles glass with its glossy finish, it reflects light beautifully naturally bringing your kitchen and Bathroom to life! If you can afford it, do it!!
Michael Kyle is Co-founder of The Sexy Bathroom.Com and The Sexy Kitchen.com Two great web sites dedicated to Kitchen & Bathroom Design, Planning and Materials as well as a great resource for design photo's and entertaining.
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