During the fabrication process, porcelain endures ridiculously high temperatures – we're talking around 1,450 degrees Celsius (2,642 degrees Fahrenheit). So, it's no surprise that this material is extremely heat resistant.
Excellent Heat Resistance
Similar to granite, producing this material involves extreme temperature which makes this material prone to heat. Whenever you will place a hot pan on top of a porcelain countertop, there will be no worries of dark burnt spots.
HEAT RESISTANCE
Porcelain stoneware material is baked in temperatures ranging from about 2200-2650 Fahrenheit which make it resist to extremely high temperatures. You can easily forget about any thermal shock when using a porcelain countertop.
However, plenty of homeowners still ask, “are porcelain countertops heat-resistant?”, and they'll be glad to hear that porcelain can withstand extreme temperatures. Generally, high-quality porcelain countertops can resist temperatures ranging from 1,200° F to 2,000° F.
However, porcelain countertops also have several drawbacks that should be considered: Requires professional installation: Gauged porcelain tile is extremely thin, which makes installation more complicated to avoid cracking. It is not a good choice for a DIY project.
Porcelain countertops can easily chip, break, scratch, or crack by any blunt force, such as if you drop a tool in a sink basin, toilet, or bathtub. This is partly due to the hardness of the surface. Furthermore, when any natural stone countertop gets chipped, you can quickly repair or buff it out.
The lifespan of a porcelain countertop is at least 10 years and as much as a lifetime, depending on usage, care and maintenance. The bottom line: Porcelain countertops stand up to everyday life, and they look good doing it!
Granite. One of the most heat-resistant options for kitchen countertops is granite. This natural stone is formed underground through a natural process incorporating high pressure and temperatures. Typically, the heat generated by cooking will not be high enough to cause damage.
The nonporous surface of quartz makes this countertop a hygienic, stain-resistant, easy-to-clean product that will last for an exceptionally long time with minimal maintenance. Because quartz is more durable and easier to maintain than porcelain, it is a better choice for a countertop.
Porcelain Surfaces Are Durable, Not Indestructible
Durable materials can chip if they suffer shock or impact in just the right place. Perhaps the most affected area of a surface is an edge. Countertops have multiple edges that can chip relatively easy if a hard object hits the edge.
Pouring boiling water directly into a cold porcelain or stoneware cup, bowl or mug may cause the item / glaze to crack (thermal shock).
Granite and porcelain are both durable and can withstand the dramatic changes in the weather, however, only porcelain is UV resistant and will not fade under the harsh light of the sun, making it the best choice for outdoor installations.
However, porcelain is cheaper than granite, marble and quartz.
Porcelain is a subset of the ceramic family…a much stronger family member. Porcelain is a more specific composition of materials, and must have a very low absorption rate, <0.5%, to qualify. Due to the composition, and the temperatures it is fired at, porcelain is a more dense and heavier material than ceramic.
Costs. The costs of quartz countertops and porcelain countertops are quite different. The average cost of porcelain lies between $55 to $120 for every square foot. On the other hand, the average cost of a quartz countertop ranges from $45 to $200 for every square foot.
You can place hot pans directly on the surface; however, we recommend the use of trivets to protect the surface over time. Ceramic knives can damage the surface; therefore, we recommend the use of cutting boards. Avoid hitting the most susceptible parts of the surface, such as corners and edges.
While granite and quartz are both popular and beautiful options, porcelain is another stone that homeowners have started to incorporate more frequently in their bathrooms, kitchens, and bar areas. Since porcelain is so new and has costs built in, it can be a more expensive material upfront.
Granite is considered among one of the hardest choices in natural stone, with a Moh's hardness rating of about 6-6.5. On the other hand, porcelain made from hard-baked kaolinite clay, ranks at an estimated 7-8, which makes it slightly harder. Both are resistant to cracks, chips, and scratches, as well as heat.
Both materials make stunning additions to homes and commercial areas, but overall quartz countertops outperform porcelain countertops. Quartz countertops are generally more of an upfront investment than porcelain countertops but they are also longer-lasting and require less maintenance.
Avoid countertops that are largely plastic such as cultured marble, solid surface, and those that introduce formaldehyde, like laminate.
Natural stone materials like granite, marble and limestone require the application of a sealant to protect the countertop's finish. The heat and moisture from pans or other hot items you place on the countertop will eventually cause the sealant to weaken.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz is one of the strongest materials you can use, making it one of the best-value countertops available. Both scratch- and stain-resistant, quartz countertops can look brand new for years even after withstanding heavy usage.
As opposed to other flooring options, Porcelain floors don't require as much maintenance. They have high moisture resistance making them simple to clean, there is minimal upkeep (beyond regular cleaning) and the maintenance is non-existent. Durability is another big plus for porcelain tiles.
While other materials may stain, crack or yellow, porcelain is designed to last. The countertops are resistant to detergents, chemicals and blemishes– even the strongest paints can be removed from its surface. They're also highly scratch and abrasion resistant which is ideal for high-use areas.