We recently had a customer request porcelain countertops for their bathroom vanities, which is not a request we get often, probably because most homeowners don't know that they CAN get porcelain countertops. Below is a guide for everything you need to know about porcelain countertops.
Where Do They Come From?
Porcelain countertops are popular in Europe and growing in the US. Right now they're mostly imported from Spain and European Countries.
How are they Made?
The dictionary definition of porcelain is "white vitrified translucent ceramic" in other words, it's manufactured from a type of clay, a heavy mineral known as kaolinite (a clay that typically contains feldspar, silica, and mineral oxides adding to its potential strength and giving it its color, it's also known as china clay). This clay is formed into slabs or tiles, coated with pigmented glaze and fired at high temperatures, enhancing it's strength and beauty. Adding glazing pigments during the fabrication process produces an appearance similar to natural stone, with the colors made to look like the veining found in Marble.
Where Do They Come From?
Porcelain countertops are popular in Europe and growing in the US. Right now they're mostly imported from Spain and European Countries.
How are they Made?
The dictionary definition of porcelain is "white vitrified translucent ceramic" in other words, it's manufactured from a type of clay, a heavy mineral known as kaolinite (a clay that typically contains feldspar, silica, and mineral oxides adding to its potential strength and giving it its color, it's also known as china clay). This clay is formed into slabs or tiles, coated with pigmented glaze and fired at high temperatures, enhancing it's strength and beauty. Adding glazing pigments during the fabrication process produces an appearance similar to natural stone, with the colors made to look like the veining found in Marble.
Pros:
- Numerous color options to choose from (porcelain tiles offer the most options, but slabs are also manufactured in various colors)
- Many patterns are available; pigment and patterns are combined to offer many options
- Pigmentation can be applied to give the look of granite and other natural stone
- Several finishes are available, including matte or glossy finishes and (mitered) edge options
- Pigmentation can be applied to give the look of granite and other natural stone
- Several finishes are available, including matte or glossy finishes and (mitered) edge options
- Large slab options are available, as big as 10 x 5 (much larger than natural stone options)
- Larger slab options mean fewer seams, which reduces installation time and potential seam issues, ultimately reducing the cost
- Larger slab options mean fewer seams, which reduces installation time and potential seam issues, ultimately reducing the cost
- 30% stronger than granite, making it resistant to chipping, scratches, cracks, wear and tear
- Has outstanding durability due to it's strength and it lasts a long time (the higher cost is balanced by its longevity)
- Lightweight; Years ago, the first generation was 3/4" thick and heavy, now they're typically 3/16" (5mm) thick (with other thicknesses available)
- Can be installed over old countertops or plywood
- They're extremely versatile because they're so thin, they can also be used as a backsplash, wall panels, cabinet side panels, kitchen islands, or as decorative accents throughout the home
- Can be installed over old countertops or plywood
- They're extremely versatile because they're so thin, they can also be used as a backsplash, wall panels, cabinet side panels, kitchen islands, or as decorative accents throughout the home
- Not having to tear out your existing countetop can reduce the cost of your project (since you would normally have to pay for demolition)
- There's no sealing necessary (Ever)
- Moisture and stain resistant
- Has a waterproof surface that's easy to clean (unlike natural stone, especially when the stone's sealant begins wearing, their pores collect water, bacteria, oil, and other substances making them unsanitary and causing staining and discoloration)
- Tolerant to all temperature extremes (even suitable for outdoor kitchen areas)
- They're heat resistant; they won't burn, smoke, or emit harmful substances when subjected to heat
- Considered a Green product since they're made with natural clay and can be recycled for use in other products
Cons:
- Can chip and crack (although it takes far more force and weight than with natural stone countertops)
- On the pricier side. The installed cost is $60-$100 per square foot. The price changes based on the specific material, type of edge you choose to have beveled in (if any) and the complexity of the job
- Availability in America is limited until the market broadens
In closing, if you like the look of marble, but are afraid of the brittleness and easy ability to stain or if you're tired of the standard granite countertops, porcelain may be the right choice for you. They're durable, easy to clean, and low maintenance, making them perfect for almost any living situation.
Note: Installation requires skilled trades and proper equipment to fabricate and install
- Can chip and crack (although it takes far more force and weight than with natural stone countertops)
- On the pricier side. The installed cost is $60-$100 per square foot. The price changes based on the specific material, type of edge you choose to have beveled in (if any) and the complexity of the job
- Availability in America is limited until the market broadens
In closing, if you like the look of marble, but are afraid of the brittleness and easy ability to stain or if you're tired of the standard granite countertops, porcelain may be the right choice for you. They're durable, easy to clean, and low maintenance, making them perfect for almost any living situation.
Note: Installation requires skilled trades and proper equipment to fabricate and install
