Porcelain countertops have become more popular due to the advancement in technology and their remarkable resemblance to natural stone. We will take a deep dive into the pros and cons of porcelain countertops and provide you with all the information you need to decide if they are a good fit for your next kitchen remodel!
What are Porcelain Countertops?
Porcelain is a manmade material that is comprised of combining several materials at high temperatures to make it durable and strong. Patterns and colours can be added to the surface of the countertop to give it a realistic stone-like appearance. The pattern only appears on the surface of the countertop and not through the material as it does with quartz and natural stone.
Benefits of Porcelain Countertops
- Durability
- Very durable and strong material – In our opinion, it is probably the best choice for countertops on the market. You don’t have to worry about the integrity of the material if you have small children or if you love to entertain.
- Non-Porous
- Porcelain is non-porous, so it will not absorb liquids easily and will not stain easily or leave permanent stains. However, If spills occur, we recommend cleaning them immediately to maintain the optimal look of the material.
- Scratch and Heat Resistant
- Most manufacturers claim that the countertops can be used as a direct cutting board and hot items can be placed directly onto the material.
- Appearance
- Porcelain is available in lots of colours and patterns and is one of the best options on the market that mimics the look of natural stone. It is a very high-end and luxurious product for countertops and the appearance proves this true. There is always an excellent porcelain countertop choice for any project!
- Easy to Maintain
- Porcelain countertops are a very easy material to care for. Countertops can be wiped down with soap and water or regular household cleaners using a microfiber cloth. Porcelain countertops do not require regular sealing such as natural stone countertops and can withstand harsh chemicals and high temperatures. Regular cleaning with mild cleaners is more than enough to maintain the look of the material.
Disadvantages of Porcelain Countertops
- Cost
- You will pay a premium for good quality porcelain countertops. The price point often deters people from using this product, but it is something that will last a very long time. The investment and upgrade are worth it because you get all the benefits with very little maintenance.
- Installation
- Porcelain countertops are very delicate when they are being fabricated. It is important to hire the right trades to complete the fabrication and installation of these slabs, especially given how costly they can be. The installation costs are one of the reasons why porcelain countertops end up costing so much money.
- Edge Profiles
- The pattern on porcelain slabs does not follow through the entire depth of the material. This limits your edge profile options, which can sometimes compromise the overall design. If you are hoping for a custom edge profile, porcelain will not allow for this and you’ll have to stick to a straight edge or mitered edge.
- Cracking
- The slabs are prone to cracking either during fabrication, transportation, installation, or if roughly used, once installed. This is something homeowners must be aware of when deciding on the material.
Are Porcelain Countertops Right For You?
We love porcelain countertops, and the pros outweigh the cons for us. They are well worth the cost upgrade, especially given the unique slab options that are available on the market. We recommend the upgrade if your budget allows. This low-maintenance countertop option will not disappoint!
