Here is why porcelain countertops are gaining popularity among homeowners and designers in Toronto. Porcelain surfaces are treasured the world over for their beauty, durability and design flexibility. Whether you are upgrading a kitchen or building a lavatory from scratch, knowing the cost, installation and maintenance of porcelain countertops in Toronto is crucial for wise decision making.
Cost of Porcelain Countertops in Toronto
The price of porcelain countertops in Toronto may differ for a number of variables such as slab thickness, design, manufacturer and installation complexity. You’ll pay an average of $80 to $150 per square foot, both installed. Fancier or personalized designs will run up the cost, especially for special edge profiles or integrated sinks.
“Porcelain countertops may seem expensive at first glance compared to other materials such as laminate or butcher block, but they are often a cost-effective choice long-term, as they are durable and require little maintenance.” By investing in new porcelain counters you may also be increasing the value of your Toronto home, as people looking to buy homes in Toronto consider new countertops an investment they ensure they can make back, and then some.
Installation Process
You will need real patience and skill to install porcelain countertops since they are so dense and can be less than fully supported and brittle to cut. The procedure generally consists in the following phases:
- Measurement and Templating: A technician is dispatched to your home to make precise measurements and templates for cutting the porcelain slabs. These are templates which guarantee the final result will match precisely around corners, sinks and equipment.
- Cutting and Installation: The slabs are cut utilizing CNC machinery and water jets or diamond blades. Fabricators also make virtually all edge details and cutouts for sinks and fixtures at the same time.
- Preparation and shoring/cabinet sup- port: All cabinetry and shoring must be properly levelled and shoring must be in place prior to installation. The tops are tempered and will be backed by ¾ plywood with contact adhesive for thinner slabs requiring additional load carrying capacity.
- Laying and Seaming: The slabs are meticulously installed and attached with high-strength adhesives. All seams are filled with matching color epoxy to create a seamless look.
Because such accuracy is necessary, it is recommended that porcelain countertops be installed by professionals.
Care and Maintenance
Another of the pros of porcelain countertops has to be the low maintenance factor. Unlike natural stone countertops, porcelain is not required to be sealed, and its non-porous surface blocks staining, bacteria and water. Here are a few simple tips for looking after your porcelain countertops so they keep looking as good as new:
- Daily Care: Clean with a soft cloth or sponge and mild dish soap or detergent mixed with warm water. Never use harsh cleaners or steel wool that can scratch the finish.
- Prevent Impact: Porcelain is very tough and resistant to scratching however, it can chip or crack if sharply hit (especially on the edges).
- Heat Resistance: Porcelain is incredibly heat resistant, though trivets and hot pads are still a good idea under all cookware to prevent thermal shock.
- Stain removal: For more robust stains, a paste of baking soda and water or a non-abrasive cleaner can be used. Don’t use any chemicals since they can damage the surface finish.
Porcelain countertops will last for a long time if taken care of properly.
Why Choose Porcelain Countertops?
Applications Porcelain countertops are a beautiful, functional option for all styles of kitchens and bathrooms. They offer a variety of colors, patterns, and finishes – including those that resemble natural stone or wood – which allows homeowners in Toronto to have multiple design options. Furthermore, porcelain is UV Resistant and can be used outside in outdoor kitchens, or in direct sunlight.
In short, porcelain countertops Toronto offers a contemporary style, along with toughness as well as ease of maintenance that can add beauty and utility to any space. Knowing the estimated costs, the professional installation needed, and some easy maintenance will allow homeowners to experience the lasting benefits of this fashionable surface for many years.