Porcelain Countertops: The Ultimate Guide to Durability and Style
When people imagine a porcelain countertop, chances are they aren’t envisioning something extremely durable. But the truth is that porcelain countertops are quite durable and are known for their strength, resilience, and resistance to various factors. In this blog, Natural Stone City will address the question of how durable porcelain countertops really are, as well as some other questions about maintenance and the design options available. Click on the links below or keep reading to learn more.
1) How Durable Are Porcelain Countertops?
2) Are They Resistant To Heat, Scratches, Chips, Stains and UV Rays?
3) What Design Options Are Available With Porcelain?
4) How Do I Maintain My Porcelain Countertop?
5) Examples of Porcelain Countertops
Do you want help picking out a new countertop? Learn more about why customers choose us or contact us at Natural Stone City for a free estimate!
A porcelain countertop is a versatile and durable option for your next kitchen or bathroom renovation. - *Image by MSI Surfaces
Why Choose a Porcelain Countertop?
1) How Durable Are Porcelain Countertops?
A porcelain countertop is generally very durable, but the specific level of durability can depend on factors like the quality of the porcelain, installation, and care. These beautiful countertops can last a long time if properly maintained, making them a great investment for kitchens and bathrooms. Just be cautious with heavy impacts on the edges or corners, as that can cause chips or cracks.
Before we move on, let’s look at what a porcelain countertop is to help us understand why this material is so durable. It’s basically rock printed with a pattern glaze on top, and they are made from a combination of several key materials, which contribute to their durability and versatility.
Here's a breakdown of the main components:
Clay: The primary ingredient in porcelain is clay, which is mixed with other materials to create a base. The type of clay used is often a fine, high-quality clay that is designed to be fired at very high temperatures.
Kaolin: Kaolin is a type of white clay that's often included in porcelain, which helps give the material its smooth texture and white, glossy appearance.
Silica (Sand): Silica is a major component, providing strength and hardness to the porcelain. It's responsible for the material’s resistance to scratches and heat.
Feldspar: Feldspar is a mineral that is added to the mix to help the clay components bond together. It helps reduce the temperature needed to fire the porcelain and improves the material's workability.
Quartz: Quartz can be added for additional strength and durability. It helps improve the surface’s resistance to scratching, making porcelain a tougher surface than many alternatives.
Water: Water is used in the manufacturing process to create a workable paste or slurry that can be shaped or pressed into molds before being fired in kilns.
Mineral Oxides and Pigments: To achieve various colors and patterns, porcelain may be infused with mineral oxides or pigments. These colorants can give the surface its design, including patterns that mimic natural stone like marble, granite, or concrete.
Glaze: While a glaze is optional, most countertops are glazed, which adds a smooth, glass-like finish to the surface. This glaze helps with stain resistance, making the surface non-porous, and it also enhances the appearance, providing a glossy or matte finish.
The process of creating porcelain countertops involves mixing these materials and then firing them at very high temperatures (around 2,200°F or 1,200°C) in a kiln. This intense heat makes the material dense, non-porous, and highly resistant to damage. The result is a highly durable, smooth, and resistant surface ideal for kitchen and bathroom use.
2) Are They Resistant To Heat, Scratches, Chips, Stains, and UV Rays?
Porcelain can withstand the traffic and wear on countertops in kitchens and bathrooms. - *Image by MSI Surfaces
In this section of our post, we’ll break down how resistant porcelain is according to various factors such as heat, traffic and wear, as well as other forces like light.
Scratch Resistance
Porcelain is highly scratch-resistant. It’s much harder than many other countertop materials (like granite or marble), so it can handle knives, utensils, and daily kitchen use without showing scratches.
Heat Resistance
Porcelain is heat-resistant and can withstand high temperatures (up to around 1,500°F or 815°C), making it safe for placing hot pans or pots directly on the surface without fear of damage or discoloration.
Stain Resistance
Porcelain is non-porous, so liquids, oils, and other substances won’t absorb into the surface. This makes it highly resistant to stains. You won’t have to worry about red wine, coffee, or acidic foods causing permanent damage.
Chip and Crack Resistance
While porcelain is tough, it’s still somewhat brittle and can crack or chip if something heavy is dropped on it or it’s subjected to an extreme impact (e.g., dropping a heavy pot or hitting it with a hammer). The edges are particularly vulnerable to chipping, especially if not properly sealed or supported.
UV Resistance
Unlike some other materials that can fade over time when exposed to sunlight, porcelain is UV-resistant, meaning it won’t discolor or degrade under sun exposure. This makes it an excellent choice for kitchens with lots of natural light.
See why customers like porcelain? Ask us at Natural Stone City about the other benefits of choosing porcelain countertops for your home.
3) What Design Options Are Available With Porcelain?
You can find porcelain countertops in a wide variety of colors such as a cream, black, or light blue. - *Image by MSI Surfaces
Porcelain countertops offer a wide variety of design options, thanks to modern manufacturing techniques that allow for customization in the following categories:
Colours
Patterns
Textures & Finishes
Edge Options
Slab Type
Natural Stone City specializes in variety. In fact, we offer the biggest selection of granite, quartzite and quartz in Southern Ontario! Let’s first explore the variety of colors porcelain countertops come in and then we’ll work our way throughout the other options. We’ll also touch on some of the customization options available to many customers.
a) Colours
Neutral Tones
Porcelain countertops come in a wide range of neutral colors, such as white, cream, beige, gray, and black. These colors can complement almost any interior style.
Bold Colors
Though more common in contemporary or modern spaces, porcelain can also be found in vibrant colors like deep blues, greens, reds, or even metallic finishes, depending on the desired aesthetic.
Marble-Look
Porcelain is an excellent material for mimicking the look of marble. With realistic veining patterns and color variations, porcelain can recreate the luxurious appearance of marble while offering greater durability and less maintenance.
Concrete and Cement Looks
Porcelain can also be made to resemble concrete or cement, offering an industrial, modern aesthetic. These designs are often available in various shades of gray with rough textures.
Wood-Look
Porcelain can even imitate the look of wood, providing the warmth and texture of wood while offering the benefits of porcelain, such as stain resistance and durability.
Custom Colors
Many manufacturers offer the option to create custom-colored porcelain countertops for a more personalized look. Natural Stone City will work with you to make your vision a reality!
Porcelain can mimic other stones, such as this Ice Onyx Porcelain. - *Image by MSI Surfaces
b) Patterns
Let’s now look at some common patterns customers consider.
Marble and Stone Patterns
One of the most popular designs for porcelain countertops is to replicate natural stones like marble, granite, or quartzite. The veins and swirls seen in these materials can be reproduced in porcelain, allowing you to get the look of luxury stones without the price or maintenance.
Terrazzo
This design mimics the appearance of terrazzo flooring with speckled patterns of various colors. It provides a unique, modern look, often in subtle tones or with more bold, contrasting color choices.
Geometric Patterns
Some porcelain countertops have geometric patterns, such as hexagons, triangles, or more abstract shapes, providing a sleek, contemporary vibe.
Solid
For a minimalist look, solid-color porcelain countertops (without veins or patterns) are also available and are a great option for modern, clean-lined kitchens or bathrooms.
c) Textures & Finishes
Your manufacturer will complete your porcelain countertops with a variety of finishes or textures. Here are some common examples:
Polished (Glossy)
A polished finish provides a glossy, smooth surface that reflects light and enhances the color and design of the countertop. It gives a luxurious and shiny appearance but may show fingerprints or smudges more easily.
Matte (Honed)
A matte or honed finish is softer and has a more subdued, elegant look. It offers a smooth but non-reflective surface, making it resistant to showing marks and fingerprints. This finish works well for a more understated, modern style.
Textured
Some porcelain countertops come with a textured surface, designed to replicate natural stone like slate or concrete. These textures can add depth and interest to the surface while maintaining durability and ease of maintenance.
Polished or Matte with a Pattern
Some designs combine finishes, such as a polished surface with matte veins or textured patterns. This can create a dynamic and visually interesting countertop.
Finishing touches include your countertop edges. Ask Natural Stone City about edging.
d) Edge Options
To complete the look of your countertops, consider these edge options!
Straight or Flat Edges: The most basic edge profile, which offers a clean and contemporary look.
Beveled Edges: Adds a subtle, elegant angle to the edges, making the countertop look more refined.
Eased Edges: A smooth edge without sharp corners, creating a more rounded and softer look.
Bullnose Edges: Rounded edges that are especially common for countertops that need a soft, flowing look, often seen in more traditional kitchens.
Custom Edge Profiles: Depending on the manufacturer, you may also have the option to select custom edge profiles, such as ogee or waterfall edges.
e) Slab Type
One of the most unique and striking features of porcelain countertops is the availability of large, continuous slabs. This can create a seamless, almost uninterrupted surface with fewer visible seams, making it a great option for modern or contemporary designs. Large-format porcelain allows for fewer seams, giving a cleaner, more uninterrupted aesthetic, especially when used for island counters or waterfall edges. Natural Stone City has over 1,000 natural stone slabs available in stock, so come visit our warehouse and see the options!
Summary
Depending on the style you prefer, we at Natural Stone City will work with customers to create custom patterns and designs. Customers can also integrate elements like built-in sinks or drainboards into the porcelain countertop design, creating a more cohesive and streamlined look.
Need an outdoor kitchen? Porcelain countertops make a great option for outdoor kitchens because of their UV-resistant design. They come in a variety of designs that can withstand exposure to the elements, like natural stone-like surfaces that complement outdoor spaces.
Overall, porcelain countertops offer a wide array of design possibilities, from classic and timeless looks to modern, bold designs. Whether you’re seeking a sleek, minimalist countertop or something that mimics the beauty of natural stone, porcelain can be customized to suit nearly any aesthetic. Skip ahead to see some examples!
4) How Do I Maintain My Porcelain Countertop?
Porcelain requires very little maintenance. It's easy to clean and doesn’t require sealing, unlike some natural stones like granite or marble. However, care must still be taken to avoid extreme impacts or abrasive cleaners that could damage the surface. While relatively simple to maintain, especially considering its durability and resistance to stains, heat, and scratches. proper care will help it stay in top condition for years.
Here are some key maintenance tips:
Cleaning the Surface
Use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and mild dish soap to wipe down the countertop daily. This helps remove food debris and prevents buildup. Avoid using harsh, abrasive cleaning agents or scrub pads, as these can scratch the surface. Stick to gentle, non-abrasive cleaners to preserve the finish.
If you encounter stubborn marks or stains that regular cleaning won’t remove, you can try using a porcelain-specific cleaner, which is often available from home improvement stores. Just follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure you don't damage the countertop. And, for very stubborn stains or discoloration, using a paste of baking soda and water and gently scrubbing with a soft cloth can help. For ink or dye stains, it might require a more specialized cleaner designed for porcelain surfaces.
After using any cleaner, always rinse the surface with water and wipe it dry to avoid any residue from left behind.
Stain Prevention
Since porcelain is non-porous, it naturally resists stains, but it's still a good idea to clean up spills quickly, especially with acidic substances like wine, vinegar, or citrus. Even though porcelain won't absorb liquids, letting them sit for too long might cause some discoloration on the surface.
Preventing Scratches, Chips, and Cracks
Avoid sharp objects. Porcelain countertops are scratch-resistant, but not completely scratch-proof. It’s still a good idea to avoid cutting directly on the countertop to preserve its finish. Use cutting boards instead.
While porcelain is durable, it can crack or chip if a heavy object is dropped directly onto it, especially on the edges. Be mindful of heavy impacts and be cautious when moving heavy cookware or objects around the countertop.
Though porcelain is heat-resistant, it’s best to use trivets or hot pads under hot pots and pans to protect the surface from extreme temperature changes and potential cracks (especially around the edges).
Polishing and Finish Care
For polished porcelain surfaces, you can occasionally buff the surface with a soft microfiber cloth to restore its shine. Avoid using abrasive materials that could dull the finish.
For matte or textured finishes, a simple cleaning routine is usually sufficient. These finishes are less prone to showing fingerprints and watermarks, so they require less maintenance.
Preventing Discoloration
Porcelain countertops are generally UV-resistant, so they won’t fade or discolor from sun exposure. However, long-term, intense sunlight can still cause slight changes in appearance. For outdoor areas, you might consider covering the countertops when not in use to preserve their look.
Sealing (Optional)
Unlike natural stone countertops (such as granite or marble), porcelain countertops don’t need to be sealed regularly because they are non-porous. However, if you have a textured or unglazed porcelain, sealing might be a good idea to maintain its appearance and prevent damage.
Edge Care
The edges of porcelain countertops can be more vulnerable to chipping or cracking if mishandled. Consider using edge guards or soft bumpers to protect the edges from heavy impacts or accidental knocks.
With these basic care steps, your porcelain countertop should remain beautiful and functional for many years. It's a low-maintenance, durable material, but a little routine care goes a long way in preserving its appearance and performance!
5) Examples of Porcelain Countertops
From black porcelain to marble look-a-likes, there are plenty of options for your new countertops. - *Images by MSI Surfaces
Above are some examples of the various styles and colors available for porcelain countertops - for your inspiration! For our full gallery of porcelain countertops, click on the following links:
Need more inspiration? Come visit us at our warehouse and see materials in person!
For Porcelain Countertops, See The Experts at Natural Stone City
Considering the versatility of porcelain and the options available to you, we encourage you to chat with us. We’d be happy to meet with you and share our expertise. Or, try our countertop selector tool to narrow down what it is you are looking for.
When you buy from Natural Stone City you’ll get:
Over 1,000 slabs to choose from
Installations in as little as 1 week
Any colour you want and more
Help from our knowledgeable and friendly staff who are experienced stone countertop specialists
With over 25 years of experience, we offer you excellent service from start to finish as well as quality products you’ll love. We will help make your ideas and vision come to life.
Contact us today and we will help you choose the perfect countertop for your home.
What Our Customers Are Saying…
“Natural Stone installed our quartz countertop in an efficient and timely manner. They were a pleasure to work with; from the sales person, to the receptionist, the accounting people and the installers. They communicated very well and I always knew what to expect and when. Kudos to all the staff and a company that went above and beyond to accommodate our needs.”
- Katherine Watson
