You likely have porcelain appliances or surfaces in your home already. While in the past you may have looked down at the idea of porcelain countertops, they’re quickly rising to become the hot trend in countertop materials for those updating a kitchen or bathroom. Porcelain has been the main trend in other countries for quite some time now and it’s starting to be worth a look in the US.
Although porcelain countertops are quite alluring, make sure you do your research before you decide if they are for you.
Porcelain is a material made from a material called China clay which is a special clay that contains a high percentage of a mineral called kaolinite along with the usual suspects of silica, feldspar, and mineral oxides. All of this combined makes porcelain incredibly strong and durable as a finished material, especially after it’s been under the fire of a kiln.
Below are some strengths and a few concerns about installing porcelain counters in your kitchen or bathroom.
Durable
Porcelain is stain resistant, heat resistant, and scratch resistant. It’s nonporous, is a perfect home for hot pots and pans, and is similar to granite or quartz in its ability to take a scratch or ding. It also repeals acidic foods and drink and doesn’t easily discolor due to use of chemicals, particularly bleach. And it does all this without requiring a sealing.
Color Options
Porcelain countertops can come in virtually any shade, color, or pattern you could desire. They can even be made to mimic the look of natural stone which makes them an economic alternative to the more expensive natural stone counters. Plus, you get all the durability and resistance to damage without the hefty price tag.
Limited Profiles
One drawback to porcelain countertops is they are more limited in edge styles and cuts than something like granite. The usual edges such as round, straight, cover, waterfall, or beveled are all available but if you’re looking to create something custom for your home then porcelain may not be the option that’s right for you.
It’s Tricky to Install
Although porcelain is durable, installing a slab can be tricky because of its thinness. It’s not as thick and granite or quartz so chips and cracks can happen more easily, leaving edges that are rough and jagged or even worse, the slab can break. Once installed, it is also prone to chipping when heavy objects are dropped onto the surface requiring professional repair.
Related Questions
What is the cost of porcelain countertops?
This depends on the cut, shape, and area you’re filling with the porcelain countertop, but you can expect to pay anywhere between $50 to $120 per square foot of material. This puts it on the more economic and budget friendly end of countertop material options.
What is the best method for cleaning my porcelain countertop?
Porcelain can take the harshness of more acidic chemicals, but you don’t want to overdo it. Any quality countertop cleaner will usually do and for quick, in the moment clean ups soap and water work great, though you’ll want to be mindful of left behind soap scum.
Installing the perfect countertops
One of the best ways to find out about countertop options is to talk to the countertop professionals at Best Granite and Marble in Livonia. With more than 60 years of experience in the fabrication and installation of all countertop solutions, our design professionals are here to help. We specialize in granite, quartz and marble and house the highest quality, hard to find slabs in a wide variety of colors and patterns.
If you are in the market for new kitchen countertops for your kitchen remodel or thinking of a bathroom renovation, come visit our showroom for some amazing ideas and speak with a specialist today, Free!