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1 Aug 2024
Granite vs Porcelain: Which is Right for Your Home?
Are you still pondering which building material is best for your home?
Is your dream home design more traditional or contemporary?
Whatever architectural design might be in your mind, two popular options often come to mind when selecting building material: Granite and Porcelain.
Both materials offer unique benefits and can be used in various applications, from flooring to wall cladding. However, deciding between the two requires thoroughly understanding their properties, aesthetics, durability, maintenance and cost. This blog will help you make an informed choice regarding Granite vs Porcelain.
Let’s get started!
Understanding Granite and Porcelain
Granite is a natural stone formed over millions of years from compressed molten rock beneath the Earth’s surface. This process gives Granite its distinct look. It has a mix of colours and patterns from the different minerals in the stone.
Porcelain is a man-made material, crafted from refined clay and fired at high temperatures. It’s known for its versatility and can be made to mimic the appearance of various natural stones, including Granite.
Comparing Granite and Porcelain
Aesthetics
- Granite:
- Porcelain:
Natural Beauty: Granite is a natural stone that is different in its look from any other product, which is why it is so valuable. Each stone is one-of-a-kind, with a distinct combination of colours, patterns, and veining.
Variety: White and grey are the most popular, but there are also more colourful ones like Juparana, Jesper red and seasame grey. You can check them on our website at Stone Centre.
Texture: Granite has various smoothness levels. Polished Granite is smooth and sleek. Honed Granite is even smoother.
Versatility: Porcelain tiles are made by man and are produced in such a way that they resemble stone, wood, cement or even leather. This makes it possible for homeowners to have many options to pick from in the course of construction.
Consistency: Unlike natural stone, porcelain tiles allow uniform colours and patterns. This can be important in large projects.
Customisation: Porcelain can be manufactured in just about any colour or design.
Durability
- Granite:
- Porcelain:
Heat Resistance: Another great quality of Granite is its heat resistance. It can be used for outdoor areas like outdoor kitchens, fire pits and walkways.
Scratch Resistance: Granite is hard and can easily withstand abrasive marks, making it suitable for high traffic areas.
Longevity: Granite, like any other stone, can chip or fade in a long run. But if they are maintained properly and sealed every 3-4 years, they can be aesthetic and functional for a long time.
Water Resistance: Porcelain is non-absorbent, or in other words, it has zero porosity. Hence, it does not hold or absorb water. Due to these properties, it is well suited for use in bathrooms, kitchens and outside areas.
Stain Resistance: Porcelain’s inability to absorb liquids also makes it non-porous. It is hard for stains to penetrate, thereby making Porcelain a good low-maintenance material.
Strength: Porcelain tiles are very tough and are not prone to cracking or chipping thus can be used in busy areas and establishments.
Maintenance
- Granite:
- Porcelain:
Sealing: Granite requires periodic sealing (typically every 1-2 years) to maintain its beauty and resistance against stains and moisture.
Cleaning: Routinely cleaning with mild soap and water is all it needs. Avoid using harsh or acidic cleaners that can degrade the stone surface.
Repairs: While durable, Granite can be prone to chipping along the edges. Repairs can be more complex and often require professional assistance.
Low Maintenance: Porcelain does not require sealing, simplifying its maintenance routine.
Easy Cleaning: Regular cleaning with water and mild detergent is usually enough to keep Porcelain looking new.
Cost
- Granite:
- Porcelain:
Price Range: Granite can be expensive, particularly exotic or rare types. The quality, colour and origin of the stone influence the cost.
Installation Costs: Professional installation is often required due to the weight and complexity.
Value: While the initial cost can be high, Granite adds significant value to a property due to its luxury appeal and durability.
Affordability: Porcelain is budget friendly as compared to Granite. Prices can vary based on the tiles’ design, size and quality.
Installation Costs: They are easier and less costly to install than Granite. However, professional installation is still recommended to ensure a high-quality finish.
Cost-Effectiveness: Offers a cost-effective alternative to natural stone without sacrificing durability or aesthetic appeal.
Installation
- Granite
- Porcelain
Professional Installation: Due to its weight and size, Granite requires professional installation. This process can be labour-intensive and time-consuming.
Seams: Larger areas may require seams, which need to be carefully aligned to minimise their visibility.
Support: Adequate support and reinforcement are necessary to prevent cracking or damage during installation.
Ease of Installation: Porcelain tiles are generally easier to handle and install. They can be cut to size with less specialised equipment.
Seamless Appearance: Use smaller or large format tiles for a seamless look with minimal grout lines.
DIY Friendly: For the best results, hire a professional. However, experienced DIYers may find porcelain tiles easier to install.
Applications
- Granite:
- Porcelain:
Flooring: Suitable for high-traffic areas like hallways and foyers.
Outdoor Use: It can be used for outdoor kitchens, patios and other exterior applications, provided it’s properly sealed.
Flooring: It’s great for all types of flooring. This includes kitchens, bathrooms and commercial spaces. It’s water-resistant and durable.
Wall Cladding: Ideal for shower walls, backsplashes and other vertical surfaces.
Outdoor Use: Suitable for outdoor applications like patios, walkways and pool surrounds due to its resistance to frost and UV rays.
Conclusion
Granite is beautiful and durable. Porcelain is versatile and easy to maintain. Natural stones add beauty to your space. It’s a costly investment, but it boosts your property’s value. They also provide durability and functionality. However, Granite offers one of kind of appearance that can automatically enhance the beauty of any space. Installing Granite can add significant value to a property due to its perceived luxury. Choosing between Granite and Porcelain depends on your preference and your space’s needs. You need to consider all the factors before finalising the material. A touch of nature in your environment always elevates the look and feel of the space. At Stone Centre we supply high quality natural stones across the Australia so that you get the best of all.
FAQs
Q: Can I use Granite and Porcelain together in the same space?
A: Absolutely. Combining Granite and Porcelain can create a balanced look, utilising the strengths of both materials. For example, you might use Granite for a fireplace surround and Porcelain for the adjacent wall cladding and hearth.
Q: How often does Granite need to be sealed?
A: The frequency of sealing depends on the type of usage. Generally, sealing is required every 1-2 years to maintain the beauty and protective barriers of the stone.
Q: Is Granite suitable for outdoor use?
A: Yes, Granite is suitable for outdoor use. It is highly durable, weather-resistant, and can withstand extreme temperatures, making it an excellent choice for outdoor applications such as patios, walkways, garden features.
Q: Can Granite tiles be used in high-traffic areas?
A: Yes, Granite is highly durable and suitable for high-traffic areas. Its scratch- and stain-resistance makes it ideal for driveway and outdoor areas.
