Discover the benefits of using porcelain in your home

In July 2024, Australia made headlines for being the first country to ban engineered stone  due to the severe health risks of silica dust exposure. This move came as a shock to many and  prompted homeowners and renovators to find safer options for their kitchen and bathroom  surfaces. 

Silica is a mineral that’s often found in various materials such as engineered stone. When  these materials are cut, ground, or polished - which is required for installation and finishing - they release fine dust particles into the air. Once this dust is inhaled, it can lead to serious  health issues, such as silicosis, and other major respiratory conditions. The severe health risks  associated with engineered stone are what led to the total ban across Australia. With the ban  in place, you might wonder if there is a good alternative. 

Enter porcelain - a stylish, durable and almost impenetrable option - that removes the health  risks but still maintains the same aesthetic appeal many are looking for. 

Why is porcelain a good alternative? 

Reason 1: Porcelain is a sustainable, natural, non-toxic product 
Unlike engineered stone, porcelain is made from natural clay and minerals that are fired at  high temperatures. This process not only makes porcelain non-toxic but also means it does  not produce harmful silica dust and is a safer choice for homeowners and professionals. 

Choosing porcelain is also a highly sustainable option. Many porcelain manufacturers  prioritise eco-friendly practices, using recycled materials and reducing waste during  production. As the demand for safer, more sustainable options grows, investing in porcelain  not only benefits your home but also helps support the environment. 

Reason 2: Porcelain is strong, durable and comes in a wide variety of options
Porcelain is extremely popular for its strength and durability. It is resistant to scratches, chips  and stains and can withstand heat, making it an ideal option for kitchen benchtops. From a  design perspective, porcelain comes in a huge variety of colours, patterns, finishes and  thicknesses allowing you to achieve your perfect look without compromising quality.  Whether you prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic or a more traditional appearance, there's a  porcelain option to suit every taste. 

Reason 3: It is light weight
Due to its lightweight nature, the use of porcelain doesn’t stop in the kitchen. We have  recently installed some great oversized porcelain tiles from Italian manufacturers as stunning  feature walls across the home. Plus, they are much lighter than traditional stone slabs, so they  can be installed by a tiler rather than a stone mason, making it more cost-effective.