Choosing The Best Porcelain Countertops For Kitchen & Bathrooms

Porcelain countertops are becoming more and more popular, and for good reason. Suppose you’re planning a renovation and want a new countertop, or are working on new construction and want to maximize the luxury appeal of the home. In that case, porcelain countertops are the perfect choice.

While many people turn to granite, marble, quartz, and other stone countertops as their first choice, porcelain might be the right choice for you.

One of the main benefits of porcelain countertops is their appearance. Because porcelain countertops are manufactured, they can easily mimic natural stone. But unlike natural stone, the veining and patterns on porcelain are designed to look seamless.

This means that you can easily have the illusion of a one-piece countertop– perfect for a large installation or a waterfall installation.

Another important benefit is the ease of cleaning. Porcelain is non-porous, unlike granite or marble, and is highly resistant to water damage and bacterial growth. This makes them an ideal choice for use in a kitchen or bathroom, where cleanliness is a must. And if there are major spills, or the countertop needs to be disinfected, porcelain resists harsh chemicals.

While you shouldn’t use anything abrasive on it, as it may scratch the surface, you can use bleach on porcelain without worrying about damaging the surface or its finish.

Porcelain Countertop Installation

Porcelain countertops are dense, and while they are impact-resistant, you should still choose professionals for your porcelain countertop installation needs.

The DIY route can lead to damage or inaccurate installation, both of which will cause you unnecessary expense and frustration in the long run. Professional installers have the expertise, tools, and experience to ensure that your porcelain countertops are installed correctly.

This will maximize the lifespan and performance of your countertop, so let the professionals at K.G. Stevens handle your installation needs.

Porcelain Countertop Pros and Cons

Porcelain countertops have gained popularity in recent years due to their durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. However, like any material, they come with their own set of pros and cons.

Pros

• Durability: Porcelain countertops are extremely durable and resistant to scratches, heat, stains, and impact. They can withstand heavy use in the kitchen without showing signs of wear and tear.
• Low maintenance: Porcelain countertops are non-porous, which means they are easy to clean and maintain. They do not require sealing and are resistant to bacteria and mold growth.
• Variety of designs: Porcelain countertops come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes, including designs that mimic natural stone such as marble and granite. This allows homeowners to achieve the look they want without the maintenance requirements of natural stone.
• Environmental friendliness: Porcelain countertops are made from natural materials such as clay, sand, and other minerals, making them an eco-friendly option. Additionally, they are recyclable at the end of their lifespan, reducing waste.
• Heat resistance: Porcelain countertops can withstand high temperatures without being damaged or discolored, making them suitable for use near stove tops and other heat sources in the kitchen.

Cons

• Cost: Porcelain countertop costs can be more expensive than other materials such as laminate or solid surface countertops. However, they are often comparable in price to natural stone options like granite and quartz.
• Heavyweight: Porcelain countertops are heavier than some other materials, which may require additional support during installation. This can increase the cost and complexity of installation, especially for large countertops.
• Brittleness: While porcelain countertops are highly durable, they can be prone to chipping or cracking if subjected to heavy impacts or sudden temperature changes. Care should be taken to avoid dropping heavy objects on them.
• Limited availability: Compared to more traditional countertop materials like granite or quartz, porcelain countertops may be less readily available, especially in certain regions. This can limit options for homeowners who prefer to see and touch the material before making a decision. At K.G. Stevens, we have many wonderful porcelain countertop options, and you can see them for yourself in our showroom!
• Difficult to repair: While porcelain countertops are resistant to stains and scratches, repairing any damage that does occur can be challenging and will require professional help.

Ready to install a porcelain countertop? At K.G. Stevens, we can help you with every step of your porcelain countertop installation. From fabrication to installation, we do it all. Contact us today for a free consultation!