Non-Porous VS. Porous Countertops: What are the Differences?

When it comes to designing your dream kitchen, or bathroom, you have a choice between using non-porous vs. porous countertop surfaces.

But what are these types of countertop materials, and how do they both differ from each other? What exactly is a porous surface, and why is it harmful to an individual’s health?

This article will answer all of these questions to help you make the best decision for your next renovation.

What is a non-porous and porous countertop?

A non-porous countertop can be described as a surface that does not allow liquids to pass through it.

This is achieved by the surface being manufactured with chemicals preventing liquids from seeping through (or staining).

Many people question whether non-porous countertops are worth the money, considering that the surface cannot be cleaned without special cleaning products.

These beautiful countertops are made with materials such as laminates, acrylics, glass, solid surfaces, and concrete.

Despite being quite popular in recent years, porous countertops are mainly used in commercial kitchens, where they can provide a quick and easy way to clean up.

When you clean the surface, all that is left behind are particles that can be washed down.

Since porous countertops tend to attract water, it is best to use non-porous utensils to soak up liquids.

Examples of porous stone countertops would be natural stone, marble, and granite.

What are the differences between non-porous and porous countertops?

The main difference between the two countertops is that porous ones are mainly used in commercial kitchens due to their ease of cleaning.

For instance, using non-porous materials in a kitchen with porous countertops will cause it to soak up the water.

This creates a mess that needs to be cleaned, which can cause a delay in getting the kitchen ready.

Porous countertops are good for kitchen centers, where non-porous utensils are not as much as they are in commercial kitchens.

At home, non-porous countertops are used in kitchens where the main purpose of the kitchen is to cook, whereas porous ones are used in kitchens where the main purpose is socializing.

Pros and cons of having a non-porous countertop in your kitchen

The main advantage of having a non-porous surface is that it’s easy to clean.

These countertops surfaces can be placed in your kitchen without worries since you won’t have to clean the surface after cooking.

The disadvantage is that they are costly, and not everyone can afford them.

Pros cons of having a porous countertop in your kitchen

There are numerous advantages to having a porous countertop. For one thing, they are warm to the touch.

This may sound trivial, but others know how hard it is to resist picking up the top to make sure the stone hasn’t cracked.

The cons of having a porous countertop are that they are not very durable.

A couple of the disadvantages are that water is absorbed, scratched easily, and discolorations may occur.

FAQs

What is the best non-porous countertop?

The best Non-porous countertop is Quartz, it is naturally non porous. If you are looking for an affordable option, you can have your countertops surface polished. Polishing will give your surface a glossy finish while making the surface look brand new at the same time.

What is the best porous countertop?

If you are looking for a surface that can handle water, you should get a stone with an open pore, which is the number of holes per unit area. For instance, granite has more holes than marble.

Is wood countertops non-porous or porous?

In terms of the problems that affect the look of countertops, it is often said that wood is porous.

Wood countertops are a type of surface that many people enjoy using. Besides the warm look, the wood grain is quite beautiful.

However, it is not a type of countertop that cannot be easily cleaned, especially if it is not stained. In fact, most wood countertops are non-porous.

Are quartz countertops non-porous?

Quartz countertops are indeed non-porous.

This means that they do not allow liquids to pass through them and thus do not stain. They are made of 100% natural quartz, which makes them beautiful, and they look very modern.

They are so popular because they come in different finishes and can be easily cleaned with just a wipe, making them perfect for busy people.

Are granite countertops non-porous?

Granite countertops are porous. However, because they are porous, they are effortless to clean.

This is because, when you clean the surface, all that will be left behind are particles that can be wiped down.