Last week’s move by Federal and State Governments to ban the use of engineered stone in kitchen and bathroom benchtops will force the sector to quickly pivot and seek replacement products ahead of the July 2024 deadline.

One of the alternatives expected to become a popular choice for kitchen and building firms is Lapitec, the world’s first silica-free stone which is manufactured in Italy and is now available in Australia.

Lapitec is a revolutionary product known as “sintered stone” which is produced through a patented process of intense heat and high pressure. It features a mix of natural minerals which are completely free of silica, resins, inks and petroleum derivatives.

Melbourne stonemason John Guzzardi, of Peraway Marble – whose family have 100 years combined experience working with stone – said: “Lapitec sintered stone will be one of the replacements for reconstituted stone. It’s versatile and very safe for all workers, as it is crystalline-silica free.”

Commenting on the government decision to ban engineered stone, Lapitec Australia’s Managing Director Samuele Tosi said: “Fine crystalline-silica powders are dangerous to human health, particularly if inhaled when engineered stone, porcelain, ceramic or other stone products containing silica are cut without the recommended safety procedures being followed in full.

“Unfortunately many tradespeople have been exposed to the risk of silicosis by companies who have not adhered to the strict safety rules. But this risk can now be removed with our new stone which provides a totally safe alternative to existing stone and building products.”

Importantly, Lapitec has been fully tested and certified by both TestSafe Australia as well as the European Commission. The stone can be used for indoor and outdoor kitchens, benches and tabletops, bathrooms, ventilated facades, roofing, cladding, flooring, paving, spas, swimming pools, underwater installations, indoor and outdoor surfaces and custom furnishings.