Porcelain.
Europeans have been installing porcelain countertops for quite some time now, however, this type of countertop has only recently gained notice in the United States.
The trend will likely continue as there are numerous benefits to this countertop material but a few drawbacks to consider. All discussed in detail below, but first...
What is porcelain made of?
Essentially, porcelain is made from clay — but not just any type of clay. The clay used to create porcelain is often called China clay, and it contains a high percentage of a mineral known as kaolinite along with silica, feldspar and other mineral oxides which together are responsible for the strength and durability of porcelain.
This combo is put into a kiln and fired at extremely high temperatures. The result is a super dense material that is almost completely impervious to stains, heat, UV rays, scratching, chips, and cracks.
Pigmented glazes are added during manufacturing to create different colors and patterns on the porcelain slab.
Pros
Heat-Resistant
Porcelain countertops are manufactured at extremely high temperatures so it can take the heat. Hot pots set on the surface won’t scorch or damage, but it is always advised to use recommended trivets for hot cookware.
Ultraviolet Light Resistant
Porcelain is also resistant to ultraviolet light which means it won’t fade from sunlight so it’s a great choice for outdoor kitchen countertops.
Numerous Colors and Patterns
Porcelain countertop colors come in virtually any shade or pattern and with many that look like marble and other natural stone.
Scratch-Resistant
Porcelain will resist scratching with the best of them. Like granite and quartz, it is very difficult to scratch. However, the one thing to be careful of is ceramic knives which can sometimes scratch porcelain.
Chemical-Resistant
Acidic foods, drinks, and/or chemicals will not dull or etch the surface finish of porcelain like marble or travertine. Also, chemicals will not discolor or bleach out porcelain countertops as can sometimes happen with quartz countertops.
Hard & Durable
Porcelain kitchen countertops are extremely hard, durable and stand up to most impacts. In fact, their durability is second to stone alone and, generally, are unaffected by wear and tear. Still, chips and cracks are possible.
Stain-Resistant
No surface is 100% stain-proof but porcelain comes close. It is non-porous so liquids do not absorb and the rare stain is usually on the surface and easily cleaned off.
Additionally, porcelain is resistant to most chemicals and will not etch or get dull spots from acidic foods and drinks like marble.
Sealing is Not Necessary (usually)
Generally speaking, porcelain doesn’t need any sealing because the fire glazing blocks against staining and moisture. But sealing can be needed in certain cases (more below).
Environmentally-Friendly and Recyclable
Porcelain is made of 100% natural, raw, and clay-based materials. Therefore, after years of use, you can easily recycle your old porcelain counters.
Cons.
Skin Deep Beauty
Unlike stone and other countertop materials, porcelain does not come with its designs built in. Patterns are basically printed onto the top.
This isn’t so much a severe disadvantage as it is a slight drawback. That is, your printed design would not be visible where edges are rounded, for instance.
Also, in the event of a chip, the interior of the slab will be the same color but the pattern does not exist all the way through.
Ceramic Knives May Scratch
Porcelain countertops are essentially scratch-proof, however, ceramic knives are the one thing that may scratch porcelain. So, the obvious advice here is don't use ceramic knives, but also it's always best to use a cutting board on any type of countertop.