Thinking about new kitchen countertops? If you’re looking for a unique material aside from the popular granite or quartz, you may want to consider porcelain. Here in America, it’s considered the countertop material of the future, but in Europe, this has been a popular countertop for decades.

Here are some benefits of choosing porcelain for your kitchen countertops:

Porcelain is Stain- and Chemical-Resistant

No counter material is 100 percent stain-proof; however, porcelain comes very close. Thanks to its non-porous nature, liquids will not permeate porcelain as quickly as it will with other materials. Porcelain resists most chemicals, and won’t etch or get dull spots from acidic foods and beverages like marble will. Also, chemicals will not discolor or bleach porcelain countertops like quartz will.

Porcelain is Scratch- and Heat-Resistant

Porcelain resists scratching, in the same way as granite and quartz. But, you should still steer clear of using ceramic knives, as these can occasionally scratch porcelain.

In terms of heat, porcelain countertops can withstand a lot because they are made at extremely high temperatures. So, you can set hot pots and pans down on your counters without the fear of scorching the surface.

Porcelain is UV Light-Resistant

Porcelain resists ultraviolet light, so it will not fade, discolor or dull over time due to too much sunlight exposure.

Porcelain is Durable

Porcelain kitchen countertops feature a high durability and hardness factor, so they can take on impact without damage. With violent force, however, chips and cracks may occur. But it’s good to know that everyday wear and tear will not affect it.

Porcelain is Maintenance Free

You do not have to seal porcelain countertops, as the fire glazing process prevents staining and moisture.

Porcelain Comes in Many Colors and Patterns

Porcelain is available in several colors and patterns that resemble the qualities of natural stones such as marble.

Porcelain is Recyclable

You can easily recycle porcelain later, as this material is comprised of 100% natural, raw, clay-based materials.

5 Quick Facts About Porcelain

1. The color or pattern of glazed porcelain only shows up on the surface. That means if it gets chipped or cracked, the interior color will peek through. When unglazed, the color runs within the entire thickness of the slab.
2. Porcelain, derived from China clay, has a high percentage of the mineral known as kaolinite, along with feldspar, silica, and other mineral oxides. When blended, they get even stronger and more durable.
3. As part of the manufacturing process, pigmented glazes add a variety of patterns and colors.
4. You can get your porcelain counters glazed or unglazed. Glazed porcelain has a shiny finish and is less porous, with a reduced risk for staining.
5. When fired at high temps in a kiln, this dense material becomes resistant to heat, UV rays, stains, scratching, cracks and chips.

Contact Granite Guy

Have we convinced you to take a closer look at porcelain countertops? We welcome you to get in touch with our porcelain installers in Lincoln today at 508-460-7900.