We’re excited to announce our newest surface option for your countertops – porcelain.
Yes, Porcelain. While it may have the same name as what your grandmother’s delicate figurines are made out of, that’s where the comparisons end.
It’s what’s on the inside that counts.
FloForm’s line of porcelain countertops, produced exclusively in Italy by Infinity, are made from 100% natural raw materials and minerals. Essentially, porcelain is made from clay — but not just any type of clay.
This specialized clay contains a high percentage of a mineral known as kaolinite along with silica, feldspar and other mineral oxides which together are responsible for the strength and durability of porcelain.
They are the same essential elements contained in granite that, when sintered at a temperature of 1230º C, create a new, compact material with incomparable technical performance. The result is a super dense material that is perfect not only for countertop applications but also for wall coverings (interior and exteriors), flooring and furnishings.
All the benefits
Porcelain is approximately 30 percent stronger than granite and is scratch-resistant too. In fact, only other ceramics, like ceramic knives, are able to scratch the surface so avoid using these types of tools on your porcelain countertops.
Porcelain is also stain-resistant too!
In fact, to be certified as true porcelain, water absorption must be less than 0.05%. Repelling water from the surface means no stains and no discoloring.
And due to the high-heat required for the sintering process, the resulting porcelain surface can handle extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. And while the temperature isn’t a big concern, we still recommend using trivets to avoid very rare cases of thermal shock.
We especially recommend porcelain countertops in sunny spaces since it’s even UV-resistant too. With direct and prolonged exposure to sunlight, you’ll maintain the original finish without any discoloring.
On their own, all of these features are impressive, but they look even better when you compare the long-term value you’ll get for your investment with porcelain compared to other materials:
The green option
We are all more and more aware of the environmental impact of our choices – big and small – every day. By choosing a porcelain countertop for your home, you can be sure that you’re making a sustainable option.
Throughout the manufacturing cycle, Infinity is dedicated to practical actions that not only guarantee quality and efficiency but also ensure they’re acting as an environmentally responsible organization. This includes ensuring:
- 100% of the raw waste produced is reused during the manufacturing process.
- 100% of the water used in the manufacturing process is purified and fully reused during the grinding process.
- 80% of the electrical energy consumed is produced by the Infinity factory.
- Infinity slabs are made entirely from natural, non-toxic materials, most of which come from local quarries.
- Like all manufacturers belonging to Ceramics of Italy, Infinity voluntarily adheres to the Best Available Techniques protocol.
Classic, stylish looks
While everything we’ve mentioned is important in deciding on the centerpiece of your room – let’s be real – looks matter, too. And worry not, porcelain is stunning.
Large scale Infinity slabs are available up to a maximum size of 1620mm x 3240mm (~ 63.75” x 127.5”), in both 12mm ( ~ 0.5”) and 20mm (~ 0.75”) thickness, though the availability of 20mm does vary by design.
Infinity Porcelain surfaces are available in three finishes: Polished, Satin and Matte, so there’s an option for every style and taste. Regardless of the finish you’re looking for, porcelain is a wonderful option that guarantees a low-maintenance cleaning and high-style space.
Polished: Reached through a progressive mechanical grinding process, this finish uses micro-abrasive materials with decreasing granularity to create a perfectly reflective surface. Think reflective and mirror-like.
Satin: The satin finish is the perfect synthesis between aesthetics and functionality. Perfectly smooth, soft to the touch, with a controlled and homogeneous opacity that enhances the graphic development of the slabs. Smooth with limited texture means maximized cleaning capacity and daily maintenance.
Matte: A light surface structure, a matte finish enhances stone finishes and gives you a little bit of texture while still allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance on a mostly soft and smooth surface.
And if a countertop with natural veining is your dream, we have you covered. In select 20mm designs, Infinity offers Natura-Vein™ Tech, a production technology that edges even closer to the unique, natural look of marble through veining that spans the entire thickness of the surface. Like natural marble, the veining pattern is completely random, ensuring your space is truly unique.
If you’re looking to learn more about how porcelain can work in your home, we’d love to help! Our local FloForm representatives will be happy to walk you through your options and assist you in finding your perfect fit.
