Porcelain counters are less expensive and far less likely to stain or discolor. Unless the look of natural stone is particularly important, porcelain counters may be the better choice.
In terms of material and installation cost, porcelain slabs offer a more affordable price than granite countertops. In terms of re-sealing process, both minerals can undergo the process but granite requires it more than porcelain. Moreover, both materials require low cleaning process.
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.
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.
Porcelain is more costly than ceramic, but more affordable than natural stone. While its durability can be beneficial, it can also make the tile trickier to install.
Porcelain tile is highly durable. Because it is extremely hard and dense, this tile resists wear, scratching, chipping, and cracking. That makes it an exceptional choice for homes with pets and active children.
Porcelain tile is a type of ceramic, but they make it from a more cultivated clay and bake it at higher temperatures. This makes it a tough scratch-resistant flooring choice. Unglazed porcelain is the best when it comes to scratch resistance.
'Being non porous, porcelain tiles are water and stain resistant without a sealant or maintenance requirement,' says Chris. 'However, properly sealed and maintained, natural stone will still provide you with a window of opportunity to clean up any spills before they are able to soak into the material.
Due to the unrivalled technical performance of porcelain, high temperatures and sudden thermal changes do not affect the surface, so hot pots and pans can be safely placed on its surface.
Porcelain tiles are more resistant to moisture than natural stones. They lack pores that makes these tiles perfect for wet areas. Perfect for a no fuss wet area. Natural stone tiles are a porous material.
Even with a large remodeling budget, saving on flooring costs allows you to splurge elsewhere! Natural stone costs more than porcelain. However, the investment in natural stone tile instead of porcelain tile may add to the home's resale value – a big consideration if you plan to move within the next several years.
Durability and Scratch Resistance
Porcelain is as hard as granite and quartz, and in some instances, even a little harder. It will be fairly difficult to scratch, chip or crack – and why it is so popular for flooring. However, just like granite or quartz, any material can chip under the right circumstances.
Because quartz is more durable and easier to maintain than porcelain, it is a better choice for a countertop. Quartz is a beautiful option to match any room and conveys all the luxury and allure of more expensive stone countertops.
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.
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!
Quartz wins as the most durable material for any kitchen construction or renovation. Having a durable countertop is a lifelong investment and if you plan to sell your home at some point in the future, its value will be higher if you've used a durable countertop like quartz.
Caring for porcelain countertops takes virtually no extra work and no special cleaning products. It never has to be sealed, and most of the time can even just be cleaned with paper towels and some clear water. For stains that require a bit more attention we recommend a neutral cleaner like Fila Neutral Cleaner.
Porcelain offers highly stain-, scratch-, and moisture-resistant properties that make it a popular choice. Whether you need a rustic wood look tile or more modern flooring, you'll find exactly what you need thanks to the wide range of styles and colors available.
Many consider the coldness of the porcelain tile to be a drawback, especially when walking barefoot. A cold tiled floor is not always a welcome sight first thing in the morning! The good news, however, is that porcelain tiles are 100% suitable to use with underfloor heating - it's a disadvantage that's easily overcome.
If you are going for something more durable and classy for your dinnerware, the choice should be between stoneware and porcelain. Choosing between Stoneware and Porcelain is often a matter of look and price. If you want the maximum durability and if you want to avoid chipping, the porcelain is your go to.
They're non-slip and hardwearing. Outdoor porcelain tiles are scratch-resistant and easy to keep clean. They won't stain and they come in a broad range of style options.
The surface of porcelain and ceramic tile do not require sealing, however, it's important to note that even though your porcelain or ceramic tile does not need to be sealed, the grout used during installation will need to be sealed and maintained.
Harder stones, like granite, make great floors for pets while a soft marble tile might not be the best choice. However, there are porcelain and ceramic tiles that replicate almost any look, including marble and wood, with enhanced durability. And best of all, porcelain and ceramic will not scratch.
However, you might be wondering how slip-proof they are, especially if you intend to lay them around a hot tub. The good news is that porcelain tiles are naturally very grippy and safe to walk on even when wet; however, it's not as simple as that.