can you use porcelain tile as a countertop

Why choose porcelain tiles for countertops?

The technology in its production makes this material the perfect choice to create countertops. Porcelain tiles are very suitable for making countertops, due to their aesthetics and their resistance. It is a low water absorption coating,which hardly scratches and is easy to clean.

Can you put tile on kitchen countertops?

And while tile is seen everywhere now—on floors, shower walls, even roofs —on kitchen countertops it serves not only as a design element but also as a surface for food preparation. Find licensed kitchen and bathroom specialists in your home and receive free, no-commitment estimates for your project.

Can you install porcelain countertops directly over existing countertops?

On expense of installing new kitchen countertops is having your old countertops ripped out. But since porcelain countertops are so thin, you can install them directly over your existing countertops. This can greatly reduce the overall difficulty and expense of removing the older material.

Are porcelain countertops cheaper than granite?

Prices for porcelain countertops can be cheaper than granite and are usually cheaper than quartz. However, the price range is similar to that of granite and quartz counters. Here's the deal... granite can be installed for less in some cases, or a lot more in others depending on the particular granite color chosen.

Is ceramic or porcelain tile better for countertops?

Known as the most durable type of tile on the market, porcelain is harder, denser, tougher, and less porous than ceramic tile. It also has a very low absorption rate, meaning it's virtually impervious to water damage, even after prolonged exposure.

Will porcelain countertops crack?

Porcelain, while extremely durable once installed, is very fragile during the fabricating process and can easily be chipped or cracked, which also makes finding an experienced fabricator highly important.”

Is porcelain expensive as a countertop?

Porcelain Countertop Price The average price of porcelain slabs including installation is between $55 to $120 per square foot. Meanwhile, the average price of granite and quartz countertops including installation is around $45 to $200 per square foot and $75 to $150 per square foot, respectively.

Is porcelain slab good for countertops?

Porcelain slabs are up to 30 percent stronger than other natural stone countertops. There will be no scratches, nicks, chips, or cracks. Porcelain slabs need no sealing, unlike other natural stones. It's not a porous material, so stains and bacteria won't get into the slab.

Is porcelain cheaper than granite?

However, porcelain is cheaper than granite, marble and quartz. And the good news is that once installed, your maintenance cost is very low. As you can see, a high-quality porcelain countertop is a versatile and durable product that gives you high performance and isn't difficult to install.

Which is better porcelain or quartz?

Porcelain withstands heat well and is unaffected by direct sunlight, while quartz surfaces can warp or become discolored over time. Both materials are slip-resistant, which makes them good options for flooring. Quartz, however, is best used indoors while many porcelain tiles can be used inside or outdoors.

Can you put hot pots on porcelain countertops?

Durable and Heat Resistant A porcelain countertop can handle hot pans and pots placed on its surface. The porcelain won't smoke, burn, or emit any harmful substance. As mentioned earlier, porcelain is one of the strongest ceramic tiles. The surface strength is achieved through the firing process.

Do porcelain countertops scratch easily?

Durability and Scratch Resistance Porcelain is as hard as granite and quartz, and in some instances, even a little harder. It will be fairly difficult to scratch, chip or crack – and why it is so popular for flooring.

How thick should a porcelain countertop be?

PORCELAIN COUNTER DURABILITY The typical thickness of porcelain countertops is ¼ inch (6 mm) or ½ inch (12 mm). Also, it can be manufactured in very large slabs that are roughly 126” x 62”. This allows one slab to cover an entire island without the need for seams.

Is porcelain as hard as granite?

Granite is considered among one of the hardest choices in natural stone, with a Moh's hardness rating of about 6-6.5. On the other hand, porcelain made from hard-baked kaolinite clay, ranks at an estimated 7-8, which makes it slightly harder. Both are resistant to cracks, chips, and scratches, as well as heat.

Which is more expensive quartz or porcelain countertops?

Porcelain countertops cost and quartz countertops costs are different. The average price of porcelain slabs is between $55 to $120 per square foot, while the average cost of quartz countertops is around $45 to $200 per square foot.

Is porcelain cheaper than marble?

Cost. In terms of cost, marble tiles are slightly more expensive than porcelain tiles.

Do porcelain slabs chip easily?

Porcelain tiles are one of the most practically designed tiles that are not strong but aesthetically perfect. They do not chip easily and the cases of such damage, if any, are very rare and most can be avoided with extra care.

Can you put hot pans on porcelain countertops?

Durable and Heat Resistant A porcelain countertop can handle hot pans and pots placed on its surface. The porcelain won't smoke, burn, or emit any harmful substance. As mentioned earlier, porcelain is one of the strongest ceramic tiles. The surface strength is achieved through the firing process.

How do you fix a crack in a porcelain countertop?

How to Repair a Cracked Solid Surface Countertop With Epoxy FillerClean the Crack. Clean out and de-grease the crack using denatured alcohol and a toothbrush. ... Mix Epoxy Filler. ... Apply the Epoxy Filler. ... Let the Patch Harden. ... Sand and Polish the Patch Area.

What do I need to know about porcelain countertops?

PORCELAIN COUNTERTOPS ARE EXTREMELY DURABLE The countertops are resistant to detergents, chemicals and blemishes– even the strongest paints can be removed from its surface. They're also highly scratch and abrasion resistant which is ideal for high-use areas.

Can you use porcelain floor tile for countertops?

Green Porcelain Tile Kitchen Countertop The material is made up of different clays and minerals that when fired forms a very durable surface that is much harder than ceramic. In this traditional cooking space by Lind Nelson Construction out of Wayzata, Minnesota, porcelain tile covers the counters and backsplash.

Can you use porcelain as a countertop?

Besides being easy to keep clean, porcelain is also non-porous and stain resistant. That's music to a countertop owner's ears because it means no sealing is required. Quality porcelain used to make countertops is scratchproof, along with being heatproof and highly durable.

What kind of tile is best for kitchen countertops?

There are many different materials on the market, but the pros recommend natural stone and porcelain for bathroom and kitchen countertops. Natural stone won't show chips or imperfections as clearly, explains Angelica Baeza of Arizona Tile, one of the state's leading showrooms, but it does require regular sealing.

Can you use floor tile for kitchen countertops?

Kitchen Countertops While many homeowners reserve tile for floors and backsplashes, tile countertops can be an excellent—and affordable—option. Ceramic tile is impervious to heat and water, and when properly glazed, it won't stain.

Do porcelain countertops chip easily?

Porcelain, while extremely durable once installed, is very fragile during the fabricating process and can easily be chipped or cracked, which also makes finding an experienced fabricator highly important.”

Can you tile over laminate counters?

Ceramic or natural tile can be applied over an old laminate countertop, but prep work can be difficult, especially with rolled edges.

Are tile countertops outdated?

Tile countertops were hugely popular in the '70s and '80s. Now they're making a comeback, albeit in more modern, minimally styled installations. Even if you have tile that's been there since before you were born, you can make it look good.

How Much Do Porcelain Countertops Cost?

The particular color, pattern, texture, and edge style will affect the final price along with the sink and cooktop cutouts, seams, and the overall complexity of the installation.

Why does porcelain not need to be sealed?

Most of the time, porcelain does not need to be sealed because the glazing on porcelain already protects against liquid penetration. Still, specific brands of porcelain or unglazed porcelain will benefit from sealing upon application.

How big is a porcelain slab?

Furthermore, porcelain can be manufactured in extra-large slabs around 126 inches X 62 inches (320 cm X 160 cm). Thus, fewer seams are needed and often one slab can cover an entire kitchen island.

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.

How thick is porcelain?

In fact, porcelain can be quite lightweight, which provides additional installations options. Typical thickness is ¼ inch (6 mm) or ½ inch (12 mm).

Does glazed porcelain go through the whole body?

However, the pattern or color of glazed porcelain is only on the surface and does not go through the full body of the slab or tile. The interior color may be different and will show if the surface is chipped. The color of unglazed porcelain extends through the full-body thickness. Porcelain Countertops Vs. Dekton Countertops.

Is porcelain hard or soft?

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.

Why is porcelain used as a countertop?

Liquids stay on the surface of the counter and are not absorbed by the material. This is because porcelain is non-porous. Thus, porcelain is stain resistant.

What are the advantages of porcelain?

One benefit to choosing porcelain for countertops is that it is extremely resistant to heat. In fact, porcelain is the result of very high temperatures acting on raw materials.

What Is Porcelain?

before we get into discussing whether porcelain is an option for a countertop material, let’s briefly explore what porcelain is.

Why do people use marble countertops?

Because for all its beauty, marble brings with it care and maintenance requirements that make it challenging for some. And although they would love to have marble countertops, some pass on using it because of the care requirements associated with marble.

Is porcelain good for kitchen countertops?

Advances in technology and an evolving market are growing porcelain into a very desirable choice for kitchen countertops and worktops in residential, commercial, and even industrial projects. More companies like Crossville are offering large format tiles and even slabs that are closer to the thicknesses of natural stone counterparts such as granite, quartz, and marble. This means that it is easier for designers to incorporate this material into the design process. But, what are the benefits to using porcelain as a countertop surface?

Can you do it yourself with porcelain countertops?

SO, if you are a do-it-yourselfer, be sure to take the time to read up on the best practices for working with porcelain countertops.

Is porcelain a glass?

People often talk about porcelain as if it where a glass material. Perhaps this is because is has translucent properties like those of glass. Porcelain also is very hard like glass. In addition to hardness and translucence, porcelain is available in a variety of colors.

Using large format porcelain tile for countertop

Does anyone know how to effectively use large format porcelain tile for mitered edge surfaces like countertops (I believe this is a bench in this photo, but it’s the same look). I can find way more options I like in porcelain tile than in other countertop surfaces, and I’d like to use tile for a mitered edge countertop with a vessel sink on top.

Comments (4)

Find the most expensive and best trained fabricator in town. Be willing to pay $125 a square and up. And face that it is not repairable if you chip an edge.

What is porcelain countertop?

All true, A porcelain countertop is actually just a huge piece of ceramic tile. (Disregard the word porcelain. That's just a marketing term that has no real meaning in this context.) The ceramic tile is made in very large section, so large that in many cases, one piece of tile covers the entire countertop. The tile fabricator then cuts the piece to fit, cuts out the sink and faucet penetrations if needed, and treats the edges.INMO ceramic tile paired with stain-resistant urethane or epoxy grout is the ultimate material for countertops, and the one I chose for my own kitchen. It is completely stain and mar resistant and totally non-reactive because the wear surface is glazed with a form of glass that is immune to just about everything. You can put hot pans on it with impunity, cut one it, and spill on it without harm of any kind (except you knives will get dull very quickly.)

What is porcelain tile?

Porcelain tile. Porcelain in the tile trade is a term used for a very hard, impervious type of ceramic tile. If a tile is marketed as a ceramic tile, it is much softer, lighter in weight and unless it's glazed, can soak up water. XL to XXL tile. Get the largest tile you can find. Many tiles come in 24" x 24".

What size tile is XL to XXL?

XL to XXL tile. Get the largest tile you can find. Many tiles come in 24" x 24". If you google extra large tile, you can find tile up to 24" x 48". This means fewer grout lines. You might have to buy these xxl tiles through a professional.

What kind of tile was used in a 30 year old kitchen?

The 30-year old kitchen I renovated had white porcelain tile countertops. The same in all the bathrooms and shower. The tiles were indestructable. The grout had failed, but the tiles were in perfect shape - unchipped, unstained.

Is porcelain tile counter indestructible?

Today, a counter from "through body rectified porcelain tile" is nothing like a ceramic tile counter of 10 years ago. The porcelain surface combines the best of all counter finishes. It's virtually indestructible.

Can you use grout on porcelain countertops?

There's a lot to be said for porcelain or ceramic tile countertops. They are heat resistant and stain resistant. You can get nice edge tiles and create a nice thick edge. I personally feel that the grout line "problem" has been over-stated. You can use a darker grout and you can use a good grout sealer.

Can you use edge tiles on countertops?

Not every tile is suitable for countertops.

What Type of Tile Can Be Used for Kitchen Countertops?

There are many types of tile that can be used for kitchen countertops, including ceramic, porcelain, granite, marble, and slate. Each type of tile has its own unique benefits and drawbacks that should be considered when selecting the right material for your countertop.

Can Porcelain Floor Tile Be Used on Countertops?

Porcelain floor tile is a great material for countertops. It is extremely durable and easy to clean. However, it is important to note that porcelain tile is not heat resistant. Therefore, it is important to use a trivet or hot pad when placing hot pots and pans on the surface.

Can You Use Flooring for Countertops?

If you’re considering using flooring for countertops, there are a few things to keep in mind. Flooring is a durable and long-lasting material, but it’s not necessarily designed for use as a countertop.

Can You Use Peel And Stick Floor Tiles on Countertops?

There are a few things to consider before using peel and stick floor tiles on countertops. First, make sure the surface is clean, dry and level. Second, choose a tile that is rated for countertop use. Third, apply the tile adhesive to the backs of the tiles using a notched trowel. Fourth, align the tiles in rows and press them into place.

What Type of Tile is Best for Kitchen Countertops

There are many types of tile that can be used for kitchen countertops, but not all tiles are created equal. Some tiles are better suited for high traffic areas like countertops than others.

Large Porcelain Tile Kitchen Countertops

Porcelain tile is a great option for kitchen countertops. It is durable, easy to clean, and comes in a variety of colors and styles. Large porcelain tiles can give your kitchen a modern look, while smaller ones can create a more traditional feel. You can also use porcelain tiles to create interesting patterns and designs on your countertops.

Large Format Tile Kitchen Countertop

Whether you are looking to update your kitchen or build a new one from scratch, large format tile can be a great option for your countertops. There are many benefits to choosing large format tile over traditional options like granite or quartz.

What is the best countertop material?

Depending on your needs and lifestyle, tile just might be the ideal countertop material for you.

How to stop tile from popping?

Use the right substrate. Don’t lay tile over a plywood base. Grout (and some types of tile) absorb moisture, which will seep down and dampen the plywood, eventually causing it to delaminate and swell, which can lead to tiles heaving and popping. Use only tile backer board as a substrate to prevent this problem.

What is tile made of?

Today’s tile offerings include fired tiles, such as ceramic or porcelain, and tiles cut from larger stones, such as slate, travertine, and granite. There are also striking glass tiles on the market. And while tile is seen everywhere now—on floors, shower walls, even roofs —on kitchen countertops it serves not only as a design element but also as a surface for food preparation.

How much does it cost to install ceramic tile?

Professional installation will boost the price of ceramic tile countertops to $18 to $35 per square foot, $45 to $75 per square foot for natural stone tile, and up to $100 per square foot for glass. This is still less expensive than professionally installed slab countertops, which run between $100 and $185 for soapstone, $75 and $200 for granite, $80 and $155 for engineered quartz, and $85 and $125 for concrete countertops.

What are the sizes of ceramic tile?

Ceramic and porcelain tiles come in a wide range of sizes and colors, from one-inch octagons to 12-inch squares, and an array of shapes and sizes in between. Rounded edge tiles are also available for creating a smooth, contoured countertop edge.

How big is a tile spacer?

Tile spacers are inexpensive and available in sizes between 1/16-inch and 1/4-inch so you can create a professional look no matter what your design. Arrange the cut ends of the tiles against the back of the countertop. Tiles come with smooth factory edges but after you cut one, the edge will be sharp.

How much does tile cost?

Tile can be a bargain, running on average between $2 and $3 per square foot for ceramic and porcelain tile. Stone tile, such as granite, slate, or marble runs $4 to $7 per square foot, while glass tile can cost up to $30 per square foot due to a multistep manufacturing process that often involves handcrafting by glass artisans.

What to do if your tile is uneven?

The idea would be to simply scrape some concrete or cement across the surface of the counter in order to fill the gaps in between each of the tiles.

What is epoxy for countertops?

Epoxy is a type of resin, but it is designed specifically for countertops and covers tiled countertypes wonderfully. The resin comes in multiple colors and finishes and can be applied easily to a variety of counters. There is also a type of epoxy known as a Stone Coat, which produces a stone-like feel to the surface it’s applied to. Stone Coat Epoxy is resistant to heat and waterproof; it easy to clean and easy to apply as well.

How much does a counter decal cost?

Depending on the square footage of the roll purchased, a counter decal can cost anywhere between $5 and $20.

What to do if your countertop cracks?

If the wood countertop cracks, then you can fill the crack with wax or seal it with another thick coat of topper.

What is cover specific aspect of counter?

If the whole counter isn’t the subject of your distress, but rather just a specific aspect of the counter, then there are small ways to cover the aspect up rather than doing an entire cover of the tie counter.

Can you stick a color to a tile counter?

All that’s needed is to simply stick the desired colored roll onto the counter where needed. There are even stick tiles that will allow for an easier transfer onto the counter, to keep the style of a tile counter, just with a new color. While decals are the cheapest solution to color, they are not a permanent solution.

How to clean mold off counter?

The cleaner used during this step should be moderately rough. If there is mold/mildew on the counter, it is best to use trisodium phosphate or regular bleach to remove the fungus.