
Porcelain benchtop Vs Ceramic Benchtops: Differences, Lifespan
, by Aline Melo, 3 min reading time
, by Aline Melo, 3 min reading time
Benchtops and stone tops are usually the highlight of any bathroom and kitchen renovation, but some people will choose these piece of stones based on it's aesthetics, forgetting to consider crucial aspects such as resistance, lifespan, maintenance and more. Make an informed decision and know more about the difference between a porcelain benchtop vs ceramic benchtops.
Benchtops and stone tops are usually the highlight of any bathroom and kitchen renovation, but some people will choose these pieces of stones based on their aesthetics, forgetting to consider crucial aspects such as resistance, lifespan, maintenance, and more.
Make an informed decision and know more about the difference between a porcelain benchtop vs ceramic benchtops.
Porcelain benchtop vs Ceramic benchtops
With an elegant and timeless design, it's easy to understand why customers tend to choose the benchtops by the way they look, but if you are new to the interior design universe, we will tell you how to identify porcelain benchtops vs ceramic benchtops when you see them.
Porcelain
This stone piece is often smoother and more elegant, refined appearance. Stone tops and porcelain pieces are popular in high-gloss finish (gloss white) and matte finish (matte white), without the shiny aesthetic.
Polished surfaces like porcelain are usually more resistant to scratches, and as the colour runs throughout the material it makes any eventual chips less noticeable.
Ceramic
This popular material, often used in tiles, is the best bet for those looking for a more rustic look for their renovation. There are many ceramic tops with styles, colours, and textures to choose from. The material will often will have a glazed look.
The downside of that if any damages/ chips and scratches will be more visible than when compared to the alternative porcelain stone tops.
Porcelain and Ceramic Stone Top - Material Characteristics
Here is a short explanation of material characteristics that you may need to consider when choosing between Porcelain vs ceramic stonetops.
The main differences between porcelain and ceramic in their materials, durability and manufacturing processes.
Porcelain is made from refined clay (often kaolin) and fired at higher temperatures (around 2,300-2,500°F).
This process creates a denser material with less porous. We will talk more about the advantages of being less porous below.
On the other hand, ceramic is a mixture of natural clay, sand, and water.
It is fired at lower temperatures (about 1,800-2,000°F), resulting in a more porous and softer material.
Which Material is Most Suitable Material for Wet Areas?
Ceramic
Naturally, ceramic has higher porosity, consequently a higher water absorption rate. The downside of that it that water damages and stains can occur if it is not glazed or properly sealed.
Porcelain
On the other hand, porcelain stone tops will have lower porosity, which equals lower water absorption.
This water-resistant stone will absorb less than 0.5%, and it is suitable for bathroom and kitchens.
In conclusion, porcelain is the most suitable material for wet areas like shower surrounds. It can also be used in outdoor areas.
Porcelain vs Ceramic Benchtops: Durability, Strength and Lifespan
Both materials will be fragile, the thinner your material, the more susceptible to breakage it will be. Ceramic is indicated for indoor and low-traffic areas.
Surprisingly, the ceramic stone tends to be less durable. As mentioned below, they are easily cracked, and scratches are more apparent.
If you choose a porcelain you will have a more durable stone. The firing process using the high temperatures plays a big role in the porcelain's strength.
Manufacturers affirm that, if placed in low-traffic areas ceramic tiles and benchtops can last between 20 to 30 years, while porcelain can last up to 50 years, sometimes more.
Porcelain benchtop Vs Ceramic Benchtops - Cost-benefit
Ceramic - This popular material will be more affordable than the alternative, but it may need to be replaced sooner.
It is still ideal for short-term and budget-constrained projects.
Porcelain - More durable, consequently more expensive. If you want to invest in quality, porcelain is your best bet!
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