If you’re contemplating new kitchen countertops, chances are, you’ve already looked at popular materials such as granite or quartz. Those are wonderful materials that are traditional in nature and reliable for a variety of a reasons. However, why not take a look at porcelain? It’s the countertop material of the future, at least in America anyway. It’s nothing new in Europe – they’ve been using this material on their counters for decades.

Let’s go over the many advantages of porcelain.

Porcelain is…

Stain- and Chemical-Resistant

No one can say that any material is 100 percent stain-proof, but porcelain comes pretty close. That’s mainly due to its non-porous nature, which doesn’t allow liquids to permeate as quickly as other materials. Porcelain is also resistant to most chemicals, plus it won’t etch or develop dull spots from acidic beverages and foods like marble tends to do. Additionally, chemicals won’t discolor or bleach porcelain countertops, as quartz does.

Scratch-Resistant

Porcelain will also resist scratching, just as granite and quartz do. But, refrain from using ceramic knives, which can scratch porcelain in some cases. 

Heat-Resistant

Porcelain countertops can take a lot of heat, due to the fact that they are manufactured at extremely high temperatures. It’s OK to set hot pots and pans down without scorching or damaging the surface.

UV Light Resistant

Porcelain resists harmful ultraviolet light, so you don’t have to worry about it fading, discoloring or dulling over time due to sunlight exposure.

Durable

Porcelain kitchen countertops have a high hardness and durability factor, which means they can take on impacts without damage. Of course, chips and cracks could happen with a violent force, but everyday wear and tear won’t affect it.

Available in Many Colors and Patterns

Porcelain comes in many colors and patterns that can mimic the qualities of natural stone like marble.

Recyclable

Porcelain can easily be recycled later, due to the fact that it’s made from 100% natural, raw, and clay-based materials.

Maintenance Free

There’s no need to seal porcelain countertops because its fire glazing prevents staining and moisture.

Facts About Porcelain

• Porcelain is derived from a type of clay called China clay. This is made up of a high percentage of the mineral kaolinite, along with silica, feldspar and other mineral oxides. When blended together, they become durable and strong.
• When added to a kiln and fired at high temps, the result is a dense material resistant to heat, stains, UV rays, scratching, chips and cracks.
• During the manufacturing process, pigmented glazes add various colors and patterns.
• You can opt for your porcelain counters to be glazed or unglazed. A glaze decreases how porous the end slab will become, reducing the risk for staining and offering a shiny finish.
• The color or pattern of glazed porcelain only appears on the surface, so if it’s chipped or cracked, the interior color will show. When unglazed, the color of the porcelain runs throughout the entire thickness of the slab.

Contact Granite Guy

If you’re curious about porcelain countertops, get in touch with Granite Guy today at 508-460-7900.

Visit our showroom of natural stone and engineered materials in Southborough, Massachusetts. Design, fabricate and install of fine countertops and surrounds