Porcelain benchtops have taken center stage in modern Melbourne homes. They’re loved for their toughness and sleek look. But, you have to take care them to keep them looking great. This guide will help you with everyday care and professional maintenance so your beautiful porcelain benchtops Melbourne stay perfect.
What Are Porcelain Benchtops?
What They’re Made Of
Porcelain benchtops come from a special clay, fired at super high temps. This makes them tough, glossy, and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat.
Why They’re Popular in Melbourne
Melbourne homes favor a clean, modern design. Porcelain works great because it can look like stone or concrete but performs even better.
Why Choose Porcelain?
- Tough as Nails: Stronger than many stones.
- Low Fuss: Unlike marble, it doesn’t need sealing a lot.
- Lots of Choices: Tons of finishes and colors to fit any home style.
Keeping Them Nice Matters
- Looks Great Longer: Regular care keeps them shiny and nice.
- Saves Money: Taking care of it means fewer repairs needed.
- Home Value Boost: Clean, well-kept benchtops can make your home more valuable.
Types of Porcelain Benchtops
Finishes and Styles
- Go glossy for shine or matte for a soft look.
- From plain colors to cool patterns—porcelain offers variety.
- Thickness varies from 6mm to 20mm with different edges too.
Installing Benchtops
DIY Vs Professional Installation
Doing it yourself might save cash. But pros do it better (less risk).
Common Hiccups
Aligning the tops just right and making sure they’re snugly fit is tricky! Best left to experts.
Tips for Smooth Installations
- Make sure your cabinets are level & solid.
- Hire skilled pros who know porcelain well.
How Much Do They Cost?
Price Range in Melbourne
Costs range from $400 to $1000 per square meter depending on what you pick & the job’s complexity.
Compared to Other Materials?
Porcelain’s mid-to-high range. Sorta like quartz but not as pricey as natural stone.
Price Influencers
- Thickness & Finish
- Install Complexity
- Labor Costs
Daily Care Tips
Keeping It Clean Daily
Wipe down every day with a soft cloth and mild detergent.
Safe Products to Use
Opt for pH-neutral cleaners made just for porcelain to avoid damage.
Avoid These!
Steer clear of abrasive cleaners & pads that scratch the surface.
Handling Spills & Stains
Quick Actions for Spills
Blot spills right away before they sink in with a soft cloth.
Dealing With Stubborn Stains
Use baking soda paste for hard-to-remove stains—gently rub it on the spot.
Preventing Issues
Use coasters & placemats to keep stains at bay.
Durability Against Scratches & Heat
Tough as Nails!
Porcelain resists scratches and heat—perfect for kitchens that hustle!
Protecting from Scratches
Use cutting boards; don’t drag heavy stuff across the surface.
Handling Heat Safely
Even though porcelain’s heat-resistant, always use trivets under hot pots—better safe than sorry!
Deep Cleaning & Professional Care
Deep Cleaning Routine
Every six months, use top-notch porcelain cleaner for deep cleaning.
Pro Services Available
Hire annual professional cleaners in Melbourne to maintain top condition!
DIY Deep Cleaning Solutions
A mix of vinegar & water works wonders too!
Sealing Techniques
While not necessary for porcelain, sealing adds an extra shield against stains if you’re up for it!
Best Products and When To Seal?
If sealing feels right, use top-rated products meant for porcelain and follow maker’s advice on frequency.
Inspecting & Fixing Issues
Spotting Damages Early
Look out for cracks or chips regularly—they’re early warning signs!
Fixing Small Issues Yourself
Small chips? Grab a DIY repair kit designed for porcelain.
Calling Pros For Big Damages
When cracks get big or obvious—call the pros! Only they can ensure seamless repairs.
Common Problems: Troubleshooting Tips
Managing Stains
Use hydrogen peroxide on troublesome coffee/wine stains. Poultice mixes draw out deeper ones.
Handling Cracks/Chips?
Don’t overload benchtops! And always consider professional help over big DIY jobs when in doubt.
Maintaining Bench Integrity After Repairs
Make sure repairs are sealed well so everything holds together nicely post-fix!
Tackling Dull Spots/Fading?
Sunlight fades surfaces; use window coverings strategically engaging regular non-wax polish restores shine magnificently!