Whether you use porcelain for your bathroom, fireplace, shower walls, barbeque, or kitchen. It's critical to decide what finish is right for your project. The look and feel of your countertops plays a critical role in your home's functionality and design. One finish does not suit all projects, some kitchens have glossy cabinets and may not look the best with polished porcelain slabs as they are reflective. On the other hand, maybe your grand fireplace needs a stone that brightens up the space with an iconic glazed finish. Below are the differences between polished ( glazed ) and unpolished and honed porcelain slabs, their unique characteristics, and how to choose the right finish for your design vision and practical needs!
Unpolished And Natural Porcelain Beauty
Unpolished (Natural) porcelain is great and suitable for high-traffic areas like hallways, living rooms, flooring, and kitchens where slip resistance is important. Honed and matte finish hides fingerprints and liquids much better than a highly polished surface. Unpolished countertops are a favorite for farmhouse-style, modern and traditional interiors. It can work great in an intensely lit area where minimal glare is preferred! The honed finish can bring out the raw beauty of natural stone, showcasing its unique patterns vibrantly than polished porcelain.
Benefits:
A more natural and textured feel.
Textured surface that provides better slip resistance.
The hygienic non-porous surface protects against bacterial growth.
Matte appearance can be beneficial in large spaces with plenty of light.
No reflection/glare.
Polished Perfection
Polished porcelain has a shiny, lustrous, and highly reflective look, resulting in a sleek, luxurious feel and prioritizing aesthetics that will last for a lifetime. Polished countertops work well in complementary and formal settings, best suited for smooth and well-lit areas, creating a bright, elegant, and spacious feel! While a polished finish may show fingerprints or water spots more easily, it is generally easier to maintain than an unpolished surface. Regular wiping or gentle cleaning is usually enough to maintain its pristine look and shine throughout the years.
Benefits:
Luxury Appeal And Enhanced Hygiene.
Wipes away dried liquids faster.
Makes the space feel more open with reflective glaze.
Vibrant and colorful patterns that add depth and dimension to each pattern.
Recreates the beauty of marble, quartzite, and onyx perfectly.