Move over granite countertops; there is a new favorite player in the countertop space. A long-time favorite in Europe, porcelain countertops are popping up more and more in luxury kitchens everywhere, including in Maine. The latest American designs are timeless, elegant, and all-around gorgeous. Best of all, they are durable.

When you think of 'porcelain ', delicate dishes and tea sets may come to mind. But porcelain countertops are far from fragile. They're robust, enduring, and can stand the test of time. If you're a homeowner in Maine seeking a chic, modern countertop that's as sturdy as it is stylish, porcelain is the perfect choice for you.

Porcelain countertops are available in a wide variety of stunning designs that match or exceed the beauty of granite or quartz countertops. The surface background comes in white, cream, tan, gray, and black with distinctive veins or near-solid colors. Whatever design you choose and there are several dozen options, it’s sure to enhance your kitchen’s beauty and functionality.

Benefits of Porcelain Countertops

While we all know the benefits of granite and quartz, porcelain's impressive properties are a bit less known.

• Temperature-Resistant: Porcelain is perfect for you if you are a cook who often forgets to put a trivet down before placing hot pans on the counter. Due to it being created by firing raw materials at extremely high temperatures, porcelain is much more heat and cold-resistant than quartz or granite.
• Scratch-Resistant: Porcelain is just as scratch and scuff-resistant as granite or quartz. Its only weakness is ceramic knives, so make sure to use a cutting board when mixing the two.
• Stain-Resistant: Porcelain is non-porous, meaning liquids can't seep into the countertop. Instead, the material repels liquids that could cause stains.
• Bacteria-Resistant: Porcelain's non-porous properties also keep it free of bacteria and other unwanted build-up.
• Fade-Resistant: Porcelain's heat resistance also makes it resistant to fading, unlike granite, which fades over time. This makes it perfect for sunny kitchens or even outdoor areas.
• Non-Toxic: Porcelain doesn't emit chemicals, even when exposed to extreme temperatures or cleaning products, making it a safe option for you and your loved ones.
• A Better Choice for the Environment: Porcelain is made from natural and renewable resources such as clay and feldspar, which can be sourced locally. Porcelain countertops can even be made from recyclable materials. Making porcelain has a low carbon footprint, and its longevity requires less maintenance and replacement.
• Low Maintenance: Porcelain is easy to clean, doesn't require a seal, and doesn't require specialized cleaning products.

How to Care for Porcelain Countertops

One of the key advantages of porcelain countertops is their low-maintenance nature. They don't demand a lot of attention, allowing you to enjoy your kitchen without the stress of constant upkeep. However, caring for them properly is still important to ensure they retain their beauty and durability over time.

• Simple warm water and soap are perfect for daily cleaning for your porcelain counters.
• Use a soft microfiber cloth or sponge to avoid damaging the counter. Gently scrub in a circular pattern, rinse, and repeat.
• Thoroughly dry the counter after washing to prevent build-up or patina.
• Use gentle products like Bar Keeper's Friend if you use cleaning products. Do not use plant oil-based cleaners because they can leave an oily film.
• Avoid harsh chemicals like hydrofluoric acid. It can ruin the porcelain counter's surface.
• Remove stuck-on substances by scraping the area gently with a putty knife, rinsing, and repeating.

As you can see, caring for a porcelain countertop requires less daily and ongoing care than granite, quartz, soapstone, and solid surface countertops.

Get Started Renovating Your Kitchen with a Porcelain Countertop

If you're in Portland, Maine, or its surrounding areas, Heartwood Kitchen & Bath Center is your one-stop shop for top-quality countertops and the best place to find porcelain countertops in Maine. We offer a wide range of porcelain countertop design as well as other types of countertop products from leading vendors like Stile by MSI, LX Hausys, and Caesarstone.

Visit Our Showroom

Our showroom in Saco, Maine, is conveniently located for you to explore our wide selection of countertops. Each type of surface has its unique benefits so be sure to speak with one of our designers. Plus, all our products are eligible for free delivery within 40 miles, and our expert contractors will ensure your dream kitchen becomes a reality. Visit our showroom or contact us today to learn more!