Porcelain slab is the material of choice for bathroom fixtures, but have you wondered if you can use it for kitchen countertops? While porcelain slab countertops may seem like a novel idea, and one that takes a little getting used to, it is more than just a fad. Countertops made porcelain slabs from having many advantages and are increasingly being used for kitchens as well.
What are Porcelain Countertops?
Porcelain is made from a type of clay that is dense in a mineral known as kaolinite. Clay-rich in kaolinite normally also contains minerals including feldspar, silica, and mineral oxides that add to its potential strength and gives porcelain slabs in Grand Rapids its color.
Porcelain countertops have many benefits for their look and feel, practical use, and durability. Here are some of the advantages:
Range of colors: Varied pigmentation of the raw materials creates a wide range of colors and shades so you can match it with your existing décor or the new theme for a remodeled kitchen. Discoloration or color change is not a concern.
Many patterns: The pigmentation can be applied to give porcelain the look and feel of marble or any other natural stone that contains veining. Pigment and patterns together give you many options.
Many finishes: Matte and polished surfacing options give you choices for the finished look of your porcelain islands.
Large porcelain slabs in Grand Rapids: Slabs up to 10’ x 5’ are possible, much larger than natural stone slabs. Larger slabs mean fewer seams/grout joints for the countertop. It also means faster installation and therefore less cost.
Strength: Porcelain is 30% stronger than granite. The surface strength of porcelain is achieved in the firing process, so the countertops resist scratches, cracks, chipping, wear and tear.
Durability: Due to the high strength of the material, these countertops last a long time. The cost is balanced by the longevity of the stone.
Lightweight: The first batch of porcelain countertops featured slabs 3/4" thick, and they were heavy. No, they are usually just 3/16” thick, though other thicknesses are available.
No sealing: Unlike natural stone that needs to be sealed after installation and resealed every few years to prevent problems, porcelain does not need to be sealed. The fired glazing becomes a barrier to moisture and provides outstanding stain resistance.
Easy to maintain: The glaze on the porcelain produces a waterproof surface that is very easy to clean. Warm-water or wiping with a damp cloth is all that is usually required to clean porcelain slabs. If you do use harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, they will not cause harm.
A new trend but seems like porcelain is here to stay and make your work in the kitchen easier!
