Quartz Vs. Porcelain Slab Countertops, What Should You Pick?
Porcelain Slabs
What is porcelain made of?
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 (approximately 2550℉ / 1400℃). The result is a super-dense material that is nearly 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 countertop.
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 countertops.
Heat-Resistant
Porcelain countertops are manufactured at extremely high temperatures so it can take the heat. I've set hot pots directly on porcelain and it won't scorch or damage the surface. But I always advised to use recommended trivets for hot cookware.
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. In my opinion, chemical resistance is the most beneficial characteristic of porcelain.
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.
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.
Quartz Slabs
Quartz countertops are a man-made product. They are created by combining natural quartz and minerals with chemical resins and pigments. The manufacturing process allows unparalleled creative options. Made of 93% natural stone, they’re an excellent example of human ingenuity and nature combined. Quartz countertops pros and cons lists lean heavily toward the pros side.
Contemporary
Crisp, clean looks whether a rich color or subtle design, can fit the style needs of any modern kitchen.
Maintenance-free
The non-porous surface requires no sealing or special care. Simple cleaning keeps them looking great.
Durability
Quartz countertops are ultra-durable and won’t easily crack, scratch, or chip. Quartz has a hardness rating of 7 on the Mohs scale, compared to 10 for diamond and 3-5 for marble.
Warranty
Quartz countertops are backed by substantial warranties due to their durability, but the terms vary by brand.
Appearance
Since it’s made with pigments and materials like recycled glass, quartz can be manufactured in various modern designs and customized to match any home decor.
Non-Porous
Unlike natural stones, which are porous and prone to staining and bacterial growth, quartz countertops are non-porous.
Stain Resistant
Quartz’s non-porous nature makes it highly resistant to staining. Even if you don’t wipe spills immediately, liquids won’t seep in and stain the counter.
Low Maintenance
Quartz countertops require little to no maintenance. They don’t need sealing, and cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe with soap, water, and a sponge will do the job.
Versatility
Quartz is not only ideal for kitchen countertops but also suitable for bathrooms, fireplaces, bars, and other areas due to its durability and the variety of design options.
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