Porcelain vs Quartz Countertops
Countertops are one of the most essential elements of your kitchen décor. They are functional and can change the entire look and feel of your kitchen space. When you plan a kitchen remodel, it’s vital to choose a material that is durable, low-maintenance, and reflects your style. While porcelain and quartz countertops are great options, choosing between the two can be tough for many homeowners. Today, we’ll dive into the comparison of porcelain vs quartz countertops and help you choose between them.
Porcelain Countertops
Porcelain countertops are made of compressed clay and other natural materials which are fired at high temperatures. They offer a unique appearance that can mimic the look of marble or concrete in many colors and finishes. Porcelain is extremely durable, resistant to heat, and non-porous, which means it is resistant to staining.
Porcelain is also easy to clean and requires minimal maintenance. While one of the biggest advantages of porcelain countertops is their durability, they can be susceptible to chipping and cracking under heavy impact. Additionally, their durability can make customization a challenge, as it’s tough to perfectly cut the edges to match your final design. Finally, porcelain’s perception as a “budget material” is going by the wayside. It’s beauty, with excellent craftsmanship, can help increase your home’s value.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz countertops are a fine-tuned combination of crushed quartz stone with materials like polymer resins. The result is a smooth, durable, and relatively non-porous surface that can resist stains, chips, and scratches. Unlike porcelain, quartz is less likely to crack or chip upon impact, making it a great choice for families with active lifestyles.
And because these countertops are engineered, they possess a uniform appearance among a vast array of colors and patterns. Quartz countertops are less porous than natural stone countertops and resistant to both bacteria and mold growth. They also require less maintenance than other countertop materials commonly used in kitchen remodels.
However, it is important to note that quartz is not completely heat resistant and shouldn’t be used directly under a hot pan or pot. Quartz countertops can also be damaged by persistent exposure to sunlight and shouldn’t be used outside. Lastly, you should clean and wipe up spills as soon as possible to avoid staining your countertops.
Comparing Porcelain and Quartz Countertops
Ultimately, both materials benefit from being highly durable and resistant to stains, scratches, and chips. However, it’s important to consider your budget, lifestyle, and design preferences as you’re choosing the right material.
1. Cost Comparison
When it comes to cost, both porcelain and quartz countertops can be expensive options. However, quartz is usually more expensive due to its durability and popularity. While porcelain is usually more affordable, consider another material like quartz or granite if you’ll require frequent countertop repairs and replacements.
Although the materials are priced differently, the labor for porcelain installations can increase its price. Any porcelain with a mitered edge requires the fabrication of a digital shop and skilled installers. Talk with your local countertop supplier if you’re unsure about where to start with porcelain installations.
2. Maintenance and Care
Both porcelain and quartz countertops require little maintenance and care. However, it’s important to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface. Similarly, warm water and soap is a great cleaning solution for quartz and porcelain, but acidic cleaners or harsh solvents aren’t. It’s also vital to avoid placing hot pans and pots directly on both surfaces, as they can cause heat damage.
3. Style and Design
Both porcelain and quartz countertops offer a wide range of color and pattern options, allowing you to customize your kitchen to your liking. Porcelain is a better option for those who want a unique, high-end appearance that can mimic the look of marble or concrete. Meanwhile, quartz is perfect for those who want a more modern and sleek design.
See Our Porcelain and Quartz Countertops
When comparing porcelain vs quartz countertops, both have their advantages and disadvantages that affect your specific needs. Porcelain countertops are highly durable and resist stains, scratches, and heat damage. However, quartz countertops are less prone to cracking, have a uniform appearance, and require less maintenance than porcelain. In the end, both materials are a great choice, and your selection should reflect your budget, lifestyle, and design.
If you are looking for a high-quality, low-maintenance countertop material for your kitchen remodel, porcelain and quartz countertops are excellent options. Whatever material you choose, it’s essential to work with a reputable supplier that provides flawless countertops that last for years to come. We’re proud to provide the best countertops and surfaces to our communities, Lincoln and Omaha, and urge you to visit our showroom or contact us if you have any questions.
