Porcelain Tiles for Countertops: Questions and Cautions

The use of porcelain tiles for countertops has started to become more popular in recent decades., as advances in porcelain manufacturing technology have allowed the creation of larger, more resistant pieces.

Porcelain tiles are appreciated for their durability, stain resistance, ease of cleaning and variety of design options. These features make it an attractive choice for kitchen countertops., bathrooms and fireplaces.

The popularity of porcelain tiles for countertops has increased over the years, especially as people look for alternatives to traditional materials, like granite and marble.

What type of furniture and countertops can I make with porcelain tiles??

Porcelain tiles are a versatile material that can be used to create different types of furniture.. Its durability, stain resistance and variety of colors and textures make it an attractive choice for interior design projects.

Here are some types of furniture that can be made with porcelain tiles.:

1. Islands and Kitchen Countertops: Porcelain tile is often used to create kitchen countertops due to its stain and heat resistance.. You can choose from a variety of colors and patterns to match your kitchen aesthetic..

2. Dining table: A dining table with a porcelain top can be an elegant and practical option.. Porcelain tile is easy to clean and can withstand daily wear and tear.

3. Center table: Many customers are opting for porcelain tiles to create coffee table tops. The surface can be customized with different patterns and colors.

4. Mesa Lateral: Small side tables with porcelain tops are an elegant way to add a touch of sophistication to the living room..

5. Bookcases and Shelves: Bookcases with porcelain shelves can be used to display decorative objects or to store items. Can be done directly on the TV panel, also covered with porcelain.

6. Benches and Seats: Some furniture, as benches or seats in living areas or gardens, you can use non-slip or satin porcelain tiles.

7. Bathroom Furniture: Porcelain tiles are often used in bathroom furniture, such as sinks and countertops, due to its resistance to moisture. Nowadays, many porcelain professionals produce furniture with toilet paper holders., toilet brush and towel rack.

8. Outdoor Furniture: For external areas, such as patios and balconies, furniture with porcelain tops can be a durable and elegant choice.

9. Custom Furniture: You can also create custom furniture, as coffee tables or sideboards, under Measure, with the porcelain of your choice.

10. Fireplaces: Mobile or fixed, electric or gas. Professionals can create fireplaces of any size, without having to renovate or make dirt in your living room or bedroom.

Remember that porcelain tiles are relatively heavy, so it is important to ensure that the structure of the furniture is robust enough to support it.

Furthermore, installing porcelain tiles requires specific skills, so you may need a qualified professional to help with the construction of this furniture.

Can I use any porcelain tile for countertops??

It is not advisable to use any type of porcelain tile to make a kitchen or bathroom countertop.. It is important to choose the right type of porcelain tile, Specifically designed for countertop applications. There are some important considerations to be made when selecting porcelain tiles for this purpose.:

1. Wear Resistance: Make sure the porcelain tile you choose is classified as a “porcelain tile with good wear resistance”. This will ensure the surface is durable enough to withstand daily use and cleaning..

2. Stain Resistance: Choose a porcelain tile with good resistance to stains and chemicals. Countertops are subject to liquid spills, food and cleaning products, so stain resistance is crucial.

3. Heat Resistance: If the countertop is in a kitchen, make sure the porcelain tile is heat resistant. Although porcelain tile is naturally heat resistant, Excessive exposure to high temperatures can damage the surface.

4. Suitable Thickness: Check that the porcelain tile is the appropriate thickness for your case. Today porcelain tiles can vary from 7mm to 1,5 cm, Check with a professional in the field which one is best suited for you..

5. Edge Finish: Consider the finish of the countertop edges. Porcelain tiles can be cut and polished to create elegant, functional edges.

6. Style and Design: Choose a porcelain tile that fits the overall style and design of the space. There is a wide variety of colors and textures available on the market.. And also sizes, the larger the porcelain tile, the fewer seams will appear in your environment..

7. Professional Installation: Installing a porcelain countertop requires specific skills. It is highly recommended to hire a qualified professional to ensure proper installation.

Remember that porcelain countertops can be a durable and attractive option, but choosing the right porcelain tile is essential to guarantee its functionality and longevity. Be sure to discuss your needs and preferences with your porcelain professional or our trained salespeople..

What size should I choose?

The size of porcelain tile chosen for countertops may vary depending on personal preferences and the overall design of the space.. Nonetheless, There are common porcelain tile sizes used for countertops. Here are some popular options:

1. Standard Size: Standard porcelain tile sizes for countertops generally range from 60×60 centimeters to 90 x 90 centimeters. These sizes are suitable for most countertop applications and provide a contemporary look.

2. Large Formats: Large format porcelain tiles, like 60×120 centimeters to 120×370 centimeters, or even bigger, are becoming popular for countertops. They offer a modern look and can create a continuous, elegant surface, with fewer visible joints.

The size choice will depend on the dimensions of your bench., the style of the environment and personal preferences. Here are some tips to consider:

– Space Size: Take into account the size of the area where the countertop will be installed. A very large porcelain tile can have many cuts and poor use of the piece., while a large space can accommodate larger sizes.

– Aesthetic Design: Consider the overall design style of your kitchen or bathroom. Larger porcelain tile sizes can create a more contemporary look, while smaller sizes may be more traditional.

– Installation Practicality: Larger porcelain tile sizes may require more care during installation due to weight and the need for proper leveling. Be sure to discuss installation implications with the responsible professional..

– Costs: Larger pieces of porcelain tile are generally more expensive per square foot than smaller pieces. Consider your budget when choosing size.

Remember that choosing the size of the porcelain tile must meet your practical and aesthetic needs., in addition to adapting to the available space.

It is advisable to work with an interior designer or porcelain professional to help make the right decision based on your specific situation..

What color porcelain tile is most used??

Choosing the best porcelain tile color for a countertop depends on the overall style of the space., personal preferences and how you want the countertop to integrate into the environment. There is no single color that is the best, as this varies depending on the individual taste it's at desired aesthetic. Nonetheless, here are some considerations to help you choose the color of porcelain tile for your countertop:

1. General Style of the Environment: Consider the overall design style of the space where the countertop will be installed. Colors that complement the existing color scheme or that fit into the prevailing style can be a good choice.. For example, in a rustic style kitchen, earthy and neutral tones may be appropriate, while in a modern environment, you can opt for bolder and contrasting colors.

2. Neutral colors: Like white, Gray, beige and black, are popular choices for porcelain tile countertops. They tend to be versatile and timeless, pairing well with a variety of decors and color schemes.

3. Contrast: You can choose a porcelain tile color that creates contrast with the other elements in the room.. For example, if the walls and cabinets are predominantly light, a dark countertop can add a dramatic touch, and viceversa.

4. Coordinated Colors: If you want a cohesive and harmonious look, You can choose a porcelain tile that has similar or complementary colors to the existing colors in the space.

5. Amplitude Effect: In small spaces, lighter colors, such as white or soft shades of gray, can create a feeling of spaciousness and luminosity.

6. Timeless Colors: If you are concerned about the durability of the design, consider timeless colors that don't go out of style easily. Neutral and natural colors are usually a safe choice in this regard..

7. Maintenance: Keep in mind that darker colors may be more likely to show fingerprints and water marks.. Lighter colors can be more forgiving in this regard..

8. Lighting: Consider how the lighting in the space will affect the appearance of the porcelain tile color. Natural and artificial lighting can alter color perception.

The best porcelain color for your countertop will depend on your aesthetic preferences and the characteristics of the space in which it will be installed..

It is advisable to personally choose the colors and designs of the porcelain tiles., to see how they fit into the environment before making a final decision. Furthermore, Consulting an interior designer or porcelain professional can be helpful for personalized guidance..

Who can make porcelain countertops?

The porcelain tile installation service for countertops and sinks is generally carried out by professionals specialized in floor installation., tiles and coverings, as well as by bricklayers or marble workers experienced in working with stone and porcelain tiles.

Here are some options for finding qualified professionals to perform this type of service.:

1. Construction Contractors: Building contractors often have teams of professionals who can handle installing porcelain tile on countertops and sinks., in addition to other construction and renovation tasks.

2. Marble or porcelain shops: Marble and porcelain shops often have experience installing porcelain tiles.. They can provide all the installation service, of the project and the correct choice of the product.

3. Interior Design Companies: Interior design companies often partner with tile specialists who can help with the selection and installation of porcelain tiles for countertops and sinks..

4. Online Search and Reviews: You can find independent professionals or construction and renovation companies in your area by searching online. Checking reviews and recommendations from other customers can be helpful in finding a trustworthy professional..

When hiring a professional to carry out the porcelain tile installation service for countertops and sinks, It is important to verify your credentials, previous experience and work portfolio.

Our store can recommend some porcelain professionals that we have as partners. Remembering that they are not store professionals, but rather referrals..

Make sure you discuss your requirements and expectations in detail with your chosen professional., including the type of porcelain tile you want, the bench design and any desired customization.

Proper installation is essential to ensure your porcelain countertop or sink looks beautiful and functional..

How to keep my porcelain countertop in good condition?

Keeping your porcelain countertop or sink in good condition requires proper care and regular maintenance.. Porcelain tile is a durable material, but following these guidelines will help prolong its beauty and functionality:

1. Daily cleaning:

   – Wipe the countertop or sink regularly with a damp cloth or soft sponge to remove dust, dirt and food residue.

   – Use warm water, neutral soap or soap to clean stubborn stains, followed by rinsing and drying with a clean cloth.

2. Avoid Abrasive Products:

   – Avoid using abrasive cleaning products, steel wool or rough sponges, as they can scratch the surface of the porcelain tile.

   – Acidic cleaning products should also be avoided, as they can damage the finish.

3. Protect Against Impacts:

   – Avoid hitting kitchen utensils or heavy objects on the porcelain tile surface., as this may cause cracking or chipping.

4. Use Pot Rests and Cutting Boards:

   – When placing hot pans or cutting food directly on the counter, use pot rests and cutting boards to prevent surface damage.

5. Avoid Stains:

   – Wipe up spills immediately to avoid stains. This is especially important for acidic substances, like lemon juice, wine or coffee that can stain porcelain.

6. Avoid Aggressive Chemicals:

   – Avoid using ammonia-based cleaning products, bleach or aggressive chemicals that could damage the surface.

7. Grout Cleaning: If the countertop or sink has grout between the porcelain tiles, keep it clean and sealed to prevent mold or discoloration.

8. Proper Drying: Always dry the surface after cleaning to prevent water stains from forming..

9. Immediate Repairs: If there is damage, such as chips or cracks, contact a professional to carry out the necessary repairs.

Remember that regular maintenance is essential to preserve the appearance and functionality of your porcelain countertop or sink..

Follow the brand's guidelines and, If you have questions about the specific cleaning or maintenance of your porcelain tiles, consult the specialized professional who performed the service.

What product can I use to clean my countertop??

To clean a porcelain countertop, It is important to use gentle products that do not damage the surface. Here are some cleaning product options that are generally safe and effective for porcelain tile countertops.:

1. Warm Water and Neutral Soap: A simple solution of warm water and mild soap is often sufficient for daily cleaning.. Just mix warm water with a few drops of mild soap, Apply to the countertop surface and clean with a soft cloth or sponge. Then, rinse well and dry with a clean cloth. You can also use creamy soap, or powder.

2. Specific Cleaning Products for Porcelain Tile: There are cleaning products specifically formulated for porcelain tiles on the market.. These products are designed to clean the surface without causing damage. Follow the manufacturer's instructions when using them.

3. Isopropyl Alcohol: Isopropyl alcohol can also be used to clean porcelain countertops.. It is effective in removing grease and dirt stains. Apply it to a soft cloth and wipe the surface.

4. Baking Soda and Water: For more difficult stains, you can make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, Leave it on for a few minutes and then scrub gently with a soft bristle brush.. Rinse and dry well.

5. Diluted Alcohol Vinegar: In cases of hard water or limescale stains, you can use a solution of vinegar diluted in water. Mix equal parts water and white vinegar and apply the solution to the affected area.. Leave it to act for a few minutes and then rinse and dry. It also helps to clean dirty grout..

Make sure avoid using abrasive cleaning products, steel wool or rough sponges, as they can scratch the porcelain surface. Furthermore, avoid acidic cleaning products, such as bleach or ammonia-based products, as they can damage the finish.

Always rinse the surface thoroughly after cleaning to remove any cleaning product residue.. And remember to dry the countertop with a clean cloth to avoid water stains..

Your choice of cleaning product will depend on the type of dirt or stain you are dealing with., but generally a mild soap and warm water are sufficient for regular cleaning.

Can I install a cooktop on a porcelain countertop??

Sim, Is it possible to install a cooktop on a porcelain countertop?, provided that some specific precautions are taken during the installation process. Porcelain tile is a heat-resistant material, which makes it suitable to support a cooktop. Nonetheless, Here are some important considerations:

1. Proper Preparation: Make sure the porcelain countertop is level and properly prepared before installing the cooktop. This is essential to ensure the cooktop is installed stably and securely..

2. Dimensions and Support: Check the dimensions of the cooktop and countertop opening to ensure proper fit. Make sure the countertop has enough support for the weight of the cooktop and to withstand daily use.

3. Thermal insulation: It is recommended to install thermal insulation or an insulating base between the cooktop and the porcelain tile.. This helps protect the porcelain tile surface from excessive heat and prevents breakage due to thermal shock..

4. Proper Sealing: Ensure there is an adequate seal around the perimeter of the cooktop to prevent water or dirt from infiltrating the area beneath the countertop.

5. Professional Installation: Cooktop installation must be carried out by a qualified professional, such as an electrician or an appliance installer, to ensure that it is made in accordance with safety standards and the cooktop manufacturer's specifications.

6. Regular Maintenance: After installation, Follow the cooktop manufacturer's guidelines for proper cleaning and maintenance. This includes regularly cleaning the areas around the cooktop to prevent the build-up of dirt and residue that could damage the porcelain..

Remember that, although porcelain tile is heat resistant, it can still be damaged by extremely high temperatures or sudden temperature changes.

Avoid leaving pans hot directly on the porcelain surface and always use an appropriate pot rest. Furthermore, take care when handling hot pans and avoid thermal shock, how to throw cold water on a hot surface.

Following these guidelines and ensuring proper installation, you can enjoy a safe and functional cooktop on your porcelain countertop.

Porcelain countertops can scratch?

Porcelain tile is known for its strength and durability, but may still scratch in certain circumstances. The likelihood of scratches on a porcelain countertop depends on several factors., including:

1. Material Hardness: Porcelain tiles are very scratch-resistant., especially compared to softer materials, such as wood or laminate. Nonetheless, its hardness may vary depending on the PEI rating (Wear Resistance Index) of porcelain. Porcelain tiles with higher PEI ratings are more scratch resistant.

2. Utensil Use and Care: Using kitchen utensils or hard objects directly on the countertop surface may cause scratches.. Avoid cutting directly on the porcelain countertop and use cutting boards to protect it..

3. Cleaning and maintenance: Using rough sponges or abrasive cleaners can cause scratches on the surface over time.. Be sure to use mild cleaners and soft cloths to keep the countertop clean..

4. Adequate Protection: When preparing hot food, use pot rests to prevent hot pots from coming into direct contact with the countertop. Furthermore, when handling hard or metallic objects, avoid dragging them across the surface.

5. Regular Maintenance: Keep the porcelain countertop well maintained and avoid leaving particles of sand or dirt on the surface., as this can cause scratches when rubbed.

Remember that, although porcelain tile is scratch resistant, It's not completely proof of them. Therefore, It's important to take precautions and adopt proper care practices to preserve the appearance of your countertop over time..

If light scratches occur, they can be disguised with specific polishing products for porcelain tiles, but deeper scratches can be difficult to repair and may require professional assistance for countertop repair or replacement.

What type of porcelain tiles will I find at Piso de Pedra?

Our stores work with the best porcelain tile brands on the market. In our store Curitiba you will find the marks: Starting in, Roca, Eliane, Ceusa, Damme e Portinari. We have several options of large format porcelain tiles for countertops, islands and custom sinks.

From size 120×120 until 120×270, marbled or monochromatic porcelain tiles, polished or satin. And we also work with technical porcelain tiles (unique mass).

You can visit our store in person and see all our models.

Or check out some options in our online store that are on offer for immediate delivery.. Click on the link to check: Large Format Porcelain Tiles

In our store Osasco you will find the marks: Roca is starting, Portinari, Ceusa and Damme. 

In our store, you will find a wide variety of high quality flooring and coverings, plus a dedicated team ready to help you choose the perfect option for your needs. We have the latest trends in interior design and competitive prices to fit any budget.

We are committed to offering the best product options to make your decorating and renovation projects even more special..

Information

Adresses:

Curitiba store: Of. Mal. Floriano Peixoto, 8787 – big mouth, Curitiba – PR, 81730-000

Osasco store: Of. Pref. Hirant Sanazar, 1235 – Umuarama, Osasco – SP, 06030-095

Phones:

Curitiba store: (41) 3286-9954

WhatsApp: (41) 3378-3171

Osasco store: (11) 5464-1864

WhatsApp: (11) 96077-2300

office hours:

Curitiba store: Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00 and Saturday from 08:00 to 13:00.

Osasco store:  Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00 and Saturday from 08:00 to 12:00.