When thinking about remodeling, one of the most important decisions you face regards materials. Today, we want to talk about one of the most versatile materials of all; porcelain. Whether you’re considering porcelain for your sinks, tiles, flooring, or even as a countertop, there are a number of benefits of doing so. Let’s get started!
Durability
First and foremost, porcelain is favored by those who want their money to go the furthest. Although not quite up to the standard of stone, it certainly has a longer life than ceramic when used in tiling. As a counter, it’s possible to chop your fruits and salad without even using a chopping board; the knives won’t damage the surface at all.
Of course, it’s difficult to put a number on durability, especially when so much depends on quality and maintenance. This being said, many are able to get up to 20 years out of porcelain tiles. For counters, porcelain is 30% stronger than the most durable granite.
Hygienic
Especially in the kitchen, remodeling with porcelain is a fantastic idea because it’s a more hygienic solution to other materials. For example, it’s more hygienic than laminates and carpets when used as flooring. Yes, the tiles wipe down easily, but it’s also because porcelain doesn’t hold onto dirt like a carpet. Likewise, it doesn’t absorb moisture like a laminate. Thanks to this lack of absorption, it means we can use strong cleaners and detergents without any side effects.
Easy Maintenance
We just touched on this topic, but porcelain is also easy to maintain. While stone floors need sealing to be stain resistant, porcelain has this quality naturally. Rather than wasting your Sundays scrubbing away, porcelain flooring will shine after a light sweep and mop. Likewise, the same easy cleaning applies for sinks, counters, and wall tiles.
Fire Safety
This might be the last thing you want to think about in your home, but fires do happen. Fortunately, during a fire, porcelain will not burn or produce any toxic fumes. Unlike carpets and laminates, which effectively fuel a fire, it won’t even generate smoke. In the kitchen, the only other material that can make the same claim is stone.
Luxury Appearance
Porcelain has been used in kitchens and bathrooms for many generations, and it’s still in fashion today. Wherever you use it, the porcelain will shine and add character. While some will choose a colored porcelain, others will choose white and allow the eyes to be drawn to a more exciting part of the room.
Slip Resistant
We know what you’re thinking, but porcelain can actually be slip resistant. As long as the manufacturer applies their special glaze to add a gritty texture to the porcelain, you won’t have to worry about slipping over while in socks and slippers.
Flexibility
Finally, porcelain has all sorts of flexibility for remodeling. We’ve seen the different areas in which porcelain can be utilized, but did you know that porcelain can mimic other materials? For example, you might want a porcelain that looks like stone or wood. We know, it won’t match the original completely. This being said, it will allow you to get the look you need but while still enjoying the many benefits of porcelain.
If you’re just starting a remodeling project and are now considering materials, porcelain is a reliable choice. As we’ve seen, it’s safe in a fire, slip resistant, flexible, hygienic, easy to maintain, looks amazing, and durable. Put it this way, you won’t be searching for a replacement any time soon after going with porcelain!