Home Design Trends: Porcelain Countertops
Everyone’s heard of porcelain sinks and bathtubs. But porcelain countertops? Sleek and stylish, porcelain countertops have been popular in Europe for quite some time. And they’re starting to gain in popularity here in the U.S.
Porcelain is made from clay with a high percentage of kaolinite along with silica, feldspar and other mineral oxides, which gives it strength and durability. When fired at extremely high temperatures, the clay becomes the super dense material known as porcelain. Porcelain can be glazed or unglazed. Glazing decreases porosity, increases durability, and creates the instantly recognizable shiny finish.
10 Benefits of a Porcelain Countertop
- Heat-Resistant. Porcelain countertops are manufactured at extremely high temperatures so they can take heat. Hot pots won’t scorch or damage the surface, though it’s always a good idea to use a trivet.
- Stain-Resistant. No surface is 100% stain-proof but porcelain comes close. It is non-porous and the rare stain is usually on the surface and easily cleaned off.
- Scratch-Resistant. Like granite and quartz, porcelain is very difficult to scratch. Just be careful of ceramic knives which can sometimes scratch porcelain.
- Chemical-Resistant. Acidic foods, drinks, and/or chemicals will not dull or etch the finish of porcelain as they do marble or travertine. Porcelain won’t discolor or bleach either.
- Exceptionally Durable. Porcelain countertops are extremely hard, and can stand up to almost anything. They are so durable, they seem to be unaffected by wear and tear.
- Ultraviolet Light Resistant. Porcelain is resistant to ultraviolet light which means it won’t fade from sunlight so it’s a great choice for outdoor countertops.
- Environmentally-Friendly and Recyclable. Porcelain is made of 100% natural, raw, and clay-based materials, so old porcelain counters can be recycled.
- Many Colors and Patterns. Porcelain comes in virtually any shade or pattern, and can be made to look like marble, metal, wood grain, rusted steel, or concrete.
- Affordable. Porcelain countertops will vary in cost depending on color, availability, and other factors, however, once installed, maintenance costs for porcelain are extremely low.
- No Sealing Necessary. Usually, porcelain’s fire glazing guards against staining and moisture, so no additional sealing is required
Nearly impervious to stains, heat, UV rays, scratching, chips, and cracks? Where can you get such a countertop? Come visit our Design Center and talk to our resident Interior Designer, Jen. She’ll get to know your style and preferences and then guide you through the selections process. You won’t believe how much fun you’ll have choosing your countertops, cabinetry, flooring, fixtures & hardware! Jen will help coordinate your finishes while keeping you on budget!
For more information about Heartland’s custom homes on your lot in West Michigan and/or the Grand Rapids area, please contact Cindy at 616-205-5430.