What porcelain worktops are
Porcelain worktops are large slabs of fine clays and minerals fired at very high temperatures. Sintered stone is made in a similar way. The result is dense and very hard, takes almost no water in and is not damaged by heat in normal kitchen use.
Slabs are often 12 mm or 20 mm thick, much slimmer than most stone. Some ranges have the pattern printed on the surface only, so the edge is a plain colour; others carry the colour through the body of the slab. Ask which kind you are looking at, because it changes how the edges look.
Edges and joins need planning
With a surface-printed design, a straight cut edge shows the body colour. A mitred edge, where a second strip is joined at 45 degrees, carries the pattern round the corner and makes a thin slab look thicker. Mitres take more work and need careful fitting, so they add to the price.
Porcelain is hard but can chip on a sharp corner if knocked, so a slightly eased edge is a practical choice in a busy kitchen. Joins are planned around the slab size and the pattern, and we show you where they will go.
Where porcelain makes the most sense
Because it shrugs off heat and isn't affected by sunlight in the way resin can be, porcelain suits kitchens with a hob on an island, rooms with big glazed doors and outdoor kitchens. It also suits anyone who wants a marble look without the care that real marble needs.
In Barnet's very hard water, limescale wipes off porcelain easily; it does not etch, and a suitable descaler won't harm it. Follow the manufacturer's cleaning guidance for the exact range.
Lighter to carry, but handled with care
A 12 mm slab weighs far less than 30 mm granite, which helps when the kitchen is upstairs or in a flat. Large porcelain pieces are still flexible before they are fitted, though, and need careful handling and full support from the cabinets. Tell us about stairs, lifts and tight turns so we can plan the pieces.
Cut-outs and fitting
Sink and hob openings are cut in the workshop to the template. Porcelain suits undermounted sinks, and some ranges are approved for induction hobs set flush or for cooking zones underneath. We follow the manufacturer's fitting guidance for the range you choose, including any support needed under overhangs.
What to send for a porcelain price
Your layout and rough sizes, the ranges you like, the edge you have in mind, sink and hob choices, and whether you want a splashback in the same porcelain. Send it through the quote form.
Questions people ask
Is porcelain heat-proof?
It is highly heat-resistant and won't scorch from a hot pan in normal use. A trivet is still wise, as a sudden temperature change in one spot can stress any slab.
Can porcelain chip?
It is very hard but can chip on an exposed corner or edge if hit with something heavy. A slightly rounded edge reduces the risk.
Is porcelain suitable outdoors?
Yes. Porcelain resists UV light and frost, which is why it is often used for outdoor kitchens. Check the manufacturer's guidance for the exact range.