Choosing between porcelain vs quartz countertops is simple but not so simple. You need to know about both stones and then pick one for your dream place. But both quartz as well as porcelain are equally popular nowadays.
Many people compare porcelain with quartz because both of these look so similar. However, there are many factors that can make one stone superior over the other.
When deciding between porcelain vs quartz countertops, points like durability, maintenance, colors and patterns must be kept in mind.
Let’s discuss quartz vs porcelain in detail.
What is quartz?
Quartz stone contains resins and pigments along with quartz crystals in its structure. Resin makes it non-porous. It is also durable and looks aesthetically pleasing.
Many people prefer quartz countertops because of their ease of maintenance, durability, and damage-resistant capabilities. However, if you like quartz countertops, you need to know that their built-in sealing is prone to damage caused by heat and harsh chemicals.
What is porcelain?
Porcelain is a low-maintenance option for renovation. Like any other stone, porcelain comes in a variety of colors and patterns to suit everyone’s needs. In addition to being durable, porcelain is also non porous so sealing it is not necessary. Porcelain countertops are also easy to maintain and less prone to damage.
Porcelain countertops are more resistant to heat and don’t damage with heat exposures. However, they can chip and also leave sharp edges when they break.
If you have come so far, one thing that might come to your mind is that both types of countertops seem the same. But what makes them different? Well, to learn more, you need to compare these points.
Appearance:
Porcelain countertops look sleek and can mimic many natural stones with their appearance. They look really charming with their unique colors and patterns.
Quartz countertops, on the other hand, also look attractive and can also mimic any stone with their deep veining. Moreover, quartz can mimic any stone more realistically because of deep veining structures.
Durability:
In terms of durability both quartz and porcelain stones are equally strong. Quartz countertops show resistance to scratches, moderate heat and stains but extreme heat can destroy quartz surfaces. Similarly, porcelain is also resistant to previously mentioned things. However porcelain countertops show more resistance to heat than quartz countertops and that can make them superior in some cases.
Heat resistance:
If we compare heat resistance between quartz vs porcelain countertops, porcelain might win. That’s because quartz is also resistant to heat, but continuous heat exposure can result in stains or heat shock. Porcelain, on the other hand, has one extra point as it is highly resistant to heat. But it is good not to expose it to extreme heat just to be careful.
Finishes:
The finishing of both quartz and porcelain countertops looks smooth and elegant. Porcelain countertops offer a soft, sleek, and subtle appearance while quartz gives glossy and marble-like sleek touch. Additionally, some varieties of porcelain countertops are also available in both matte and glossy finishes. On the other hand, quartz countertops not only provide matte and glossy finishes but also offer a wide range of other finishing options, including leather, polished, and shiny versions.
Maintenance:
In terms of maintenance, both types of countertops are easy to maintain. The maintenance of both types of countertops is nearly similar. However, the quartz countertops need more care as they are more sensitive to heat. You cannot put hot dishes on quartz countertops but that’s not the case with porcelain countertops.
Installation:
The porcelain being lighter can break during installation that’s why you need to handle it carefully. You can cut it easily but also make sure that it is done under the supervision of experts. That’s because you need to be very careful when installing porcelain countertops. The quartz is much stronger in comparison to porcelain. It hardly breaks during installation but still you need to be careful.
Cost:
The question may arise in your mind; how much do porcelain countertops cost. If we talk about general cost the porcelain might seem inexpensive but that’s not always true.
The price of both stones varies depending upon the colors, design complexity and installation. If you have to cover a small area then quartz may seem cost effective. However, the prices of both quartz and porcelain are almost similar in most cases.
Wrap up:
The question remains: Which one is best? Well, the choice between quartz and porcelain countertops depends on your needs.
If your kitchen is continuously exposed to heat, a porcelain countertop is the best option. Moreover, porcelain is the best option if you don’t like stone-like countertops.
The people who like stones always prefer quartz countertops. Furthermore, quartz can withstand pressure as well. Thus, the choice for countertop changes according to your lifestyle and needs because both countertop options are good.
READ MORE: Best Time for Kitchen Countertop Replacement
