Five reasons to choose porcelain stoneware for kitchen countertops
The countertop is a core element of the kitchen set, so it’s no surprise that it has many strict requirements. It must be easy to clean, durable, moisture-resistant, and able to withstand damage. Moreover, it needs to have a pleasant, stylish look. Many materials currently used for kitchen furniture hardly meet these conditions, but porcelain stoneware does. It’s reliable, long-lasting, eco-friendly, easy to clean, and very attractive.
A porcelain stoneware countertop is as eye-catching as it is practical. It doesn’t deform under high temperatures, can take come punishment, and is suitable for most types of kitchen work. You can use it to chop ingredients, as well as place hot pots and pans directly on it, and also use it as a dining area. No matter what you do to it, it will keep doing the job and look neat in any situation. Read this article to find out why porcelain stoneware is the best choice for your kitchen countertop or island.
Advantages of porcelain stoneware countertops
1. Good hygiene
The countertop surface ought to be hygienic: it should not be a convenient place for bacteria to breed in; it must not be challenging to clean; and it must be moisture-resistant. Porcelain stoneware meets all these criteria. It’s very easy to clean, stain-resistant, and hypoallergenic. Using 120×278 cm maxi-format tiles in your design allows for countertops with minimal or no seams, making it even safer and more hygienic.
2. Wear resistance
You can chop ingredients directly on a porcelain stoneware countertop without a cutting board, as it resists scratches and doesn’t develop marks or scuffs. No matter how you use it, this surface will always look tidy and aesthetically pleasing.
3. Heat resistance
Porcelain stoneware withstands sharp temperature swings, so you can safely place hot items like pans, pots, and kettles on it, even without using mats or stands.
The countertop’s surface will never deform or change its color, even if you spill hot tea or coffee on it. Throughout its lifespan, it will stay durable and easy on the eye.
4. Good usability
When we cook, stains inevitably appear on the countertop, be it from oil, sauces, or brightly colored spices.
This is hardly an issue for porcelain stoneware products since they don’t absorb any substances or liquids. Simply wipe your countertop or kitchen island with a damp cloth to free it from any dirt.
5. Good aesthetics
Porcelain stoneware countertops are not only practical but also exceptionally beautiful. This material can authentically replicate textures such as marble, wood, concrete, natural stone, and even metal for a very impressive look. A counter or island with a porcelain stoneware top fits any interior well.
Disadvantages
There are but few notable disadvantages to porcelain stoneware. One of the main issues is the challenges that may arise while preparing for its installation. This material is very strong, so cutting it and making all the necessary holes, such as for a sink or faucet, can be quite challenging if you don’t possess the required skills. The installer must be knowledgeable about handling porcelain tiles and have the appropriate tools for cutting them. For a perfect result, take your time to find a skilled tiler.
Porcelain stoneware countertop ideas
A light-colored kitchen
This project features tiles from two porcelain stoneware collections: Charme Evo in Calacatta shade and Charme Extra in Laza shade. They have been used for the backsplash and walls, and also for the countertop and kitchen island. This approach works towards visual harmony, and opting for light materials creates a sense of comfort and unity.
Eco-style kitchen/living room
In this project, the kitchen island also acts as a visual divider, splitting the space into two areas with distinct functionality. The same material used for the floor — Statuario marble porcelain stoneware from the Charme Evo collection — was used for the counter and its countertop to make sure this setup looks seamless.
Minimalist black kitchen
In this unique project, the entire working area of the kitchen is styled in dark tones, featuring Titanio slate-like porcelain stoneware from the Materia collection. The monochrome design makes the space look cohesive and striking, while the same shade used on the walls and countertop visually enlarges and expands the small area.
How to care for your kitchen countertop
Porcelain stoneware countertops are low-maintenance and don’t call for any special care techniques. Since porcelain stoneware is non-porous, it doesn’t absorb dirt or water, making it very easy to clean. In most cases, simply wiping the surface with a damp cloth or sponge is sufficient to remove dust and food stains. For serious stains, household chemicals can be used without any concerns about damaging the robust and resistant porcelain stoneware.
Porcelain stoneware countertops are an eco-friendly and practical choice for your kitchen. Stylish and modern, they will last for many years without losing their visual appeal and durability. The variety of shades and textures offered in collections by Italon lets you design an interior in any style you like.
