When it comes to modern joinery and interior finishes, large format porcelain has become a top choice among Canberra homeowners. Known for its sleek look and durability, this material is making its way into kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces across Australia. At BHS Joinery, we’ve seen more clients ask about porcelain benchtops, splashbacks, and wall cladding as they search for stylish yet functional solutions.
But is large format porcelain the best choice for your home? Let’s consider the advantages and disadvantages so you can make an informed choice.
✅ The Pros of Large Format Porcelain
1. A Modern, Seamless Look
One of the greatest perks of porcelain slabs is their size. Large format panels minimize the number of joins, providing kitchens and bathrooms with a sleek, continuous appearance. This makes them especially attractive to homeowners for use as benchtops, splashbacks, and wall features. If homeowners want to achieve a clean, minimalist look, large format porcelain in Canberra is the ideal choice.
2. Durability and Strength
Porcelain is strong and resistant. In contrast to some natural stones, porcelain is very scratch-resistant, stain-resistant, and heat-resistant. This makes it the best choice for heavy-use areas such as kitchen benchtops, where durability is crucial. We at BHS Joinery usually suggest porcelain to busy family houses where people need a fashionable finish without continuous maintenance.
3. Low Maintenance
In contrast to marble or granite, porcelain does not require regular sealing or so-called “special cleaners.” A mere wipe-down with a damp cloth will suffice to maintain the surface in immaculate condition. This low-maintenance aspect is a significant advantage for busy families.
4. Design Versatility
Porcelain surfaces come in a variety of colors, patterns, and finishes. Some even look like natural stone, wood, or concrete. Whether you’re looking for a modern sleek appearance or an enduring stone-like look, porcelain is versatile.
❌ The Disadvantages of Large Format Porcelain
1. Increased Initial Costs
One of the most significant drawbacks of porcelain is cost. Slabs in large format tend to be pricier than regular materials. Although the investment is worthwhile in terms of longevity and appearance, homeowners should be ready for increased initial expense.
2. Installation Challenges
Due to the size and weight of porcelain slabs, installation necessitates specialist machinery and experienced trades. Errors in installation are expensive, which is why experienced technicians such as BHS Joinery Canberra are necessary to deal with the job.
3. Few Edge Profiles
In comparison to natural stone, porcelain has less when it comes to edge profiling. Although clean, linear edges are stunning for contemporary designs, those who desire more elaborate edges could find the options limited.
4. Risk of Damage While Transporting
Porcelain is durable once it’s installed, but big slabs can be delicate in transit and handling. They can chip or crack if not handled properly. That’s why having your project handled by a reputable joinery team guarantees that it’s treated with care.
When Is Large Format Porcelain Ideal for You?
Large format porcelain is ideal for homeowners who desire:
– A streamlined, super-smooth look in kitchens or bathrooms
– Stainless steel, scratch-resistant benchtops and splashbacks
– Low-maintenance, easy-to-clean surfaces
– A natural stone-like appearance with no maintenance required
If budget and installation aren’t your primary worries, porcelain can deliver a long-lasting, high-end look for your home.
Final Thoughts
As with any material, large format porcelain has its strengths and weaknesses. For most Canberra homeowners, the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages—particularly where durability, good looks, and functionality are top considerations.
At BHS Joinery, we collaborate with customers to create bespoke kitchens, vanities, wardrobes, and storage systems using premium materials such as porcelain. With expert guidance and skilled installation, you can appreciate everything porcelain has to offer without risking pitfalls. ✨ Planning on using porcelain for your next project? Get in touch with BHS Joinery today for a consultation and learn how we can realize your vision with masterful craftsmanship.