Porcelain Countertops in Nokomis, Florida

What is porcelain?

Porcelain countertops are large, thin slabs of fired clay and minerals. The surface is non-porous, never needs sealing, resists heat and does not fade in the sun, so it works indoors and on open patios. It comes in marble looks, concrete looks and solid colors.

They are made from fine clay, feldspar and other minerals that are pressed and fired at extremely high temperatures. The firing makes the material very dense and non-porous. It is offered in finishes from matte to polished. Because the slabs are thin and light for their size, porcelain also works on walls, like the fireplace and TV walls in our project gallery.

What are the pros and cons of porcelain?

Porcelain is tough on the surface and easy to live with, as long as the edges are protected.

Pros

• Never needs sealing.
• Handles heat well.
• UV stable, so it does not fade outdoors.
• Resists stains, scratches and etching.

Cons

• Can chip at edges and corners.
• Fewer edge profile options than natural stone.
• Pattern is often printed on the surface only.
• Requires specialized cutting during fabrication.

Is porcelain good for Florida homes?

Yes. Porcelain is one of the best surfaces for Florida conditions. Humidity cannot soak in, the sun will not fade it, and heat from a grill or stove does not bother it. It suits indoor kitchens and wall cladding as well as outdoor kitchens.

On an open patio it is a strong choice for outdoor kitchen countertops, where engineered quartz is not recommended.

Porcelain slabs are thinner than most stone slabs, so many projects use a mitered edge to build a thicker look at the front. Islands and overhangs also need the right support underneath. We plan both during templating, so the finished top looks substantial and stays solid.

To see how porcelain stacks up against natural stone, use our countertop materials comparison, or read about granite countertops, the other long proven outdoor option.

How do you care for porcelain?

Porcelain is one of the easiest surfaces to maintain. Clean it with mild dish soap and warm water, and dry it with a soft cloth. There is nothing to seal, at our shop or at home. The one habit worth building is protecting the edges: avoid knocking heavy pots or tools against corners, and use a cutting board instead of cutting directly on the surface. Stubborn marks usually lift with a non abrasive cleaner made for porcelain.

Can I see porcelain at your Nokomis showroom?

You can talk through porcelain options at our showroom at 780 N Tamiami Trail in Nokomis. Porcelain is not listed in our online stone catalog yet, so ask us which slabs and finishes we can bring in for your project. Our team has used porcelain on fireplace walls with waterfall edges, and the photos are a good place to start.

When you know where your porcelain will go, request your countertop estimate and we will help you plan the edges and seams.