Ceramics

Ceramic is a man-made surface produced by combining ceramic clays and mineral colourings, pressed to create the shape. Then printed on and fired to create a large slab.

They have extremely practical properties and the manufacturing process enables patterns to be placed on these surfaces through digital imagery. This allows a quick response to the growing demands of new trends within the market.

What to expect?

• This material will have high levels of consistency when it comes to colours and patterns. As the appearance is created through digital imagery it can imitate Marble, Quartz, Granite, even concrete, wood and metal.
• This versatile material can be used for outdoor spaces, indoor worktops, flooring, walls and cladding. The slabs arrive in a 12mm thickness allowing a sleek look to be created, a deeper work surface appearance can be created by mitring and cladding. 6mm slabs can also be supplied for cladding and flooring.
• The Ceramic surface is non-porous and would not require sealing, once cut the exposed edges are porous and would need to be treated, some masonry wax colouring may need to be applied too.
• When planning design features, such as draining grooves and mitred edges, we would recommend asking your fabricator for a mocked-up sample, so you can be satisfied with the finished look.
• In comparison to other surfaces, Ceramics have excellent heat and scratch resistance; you can safely put hot pans on the work surface or cut directly without a chopping board. However, we would always advise caution.
• Knives could leave a metal transfer. And on Ceramic induction hobs, a hot pan can be boiling over which may leave very stubborn marks welded to the surface. We always remain cautious about most manufacturers’ claims when it comes to the durability of man-made products.
• Polished ceramics can be susceptible to fine scratches. Matt or honed finishes provide a more durable generally.
• Ceramic surfaces are strong, but as a worktop, it is only supported at the edges by the kitchen carcass. Joins and cut-outs can be weaker points and the surface is not designed to support the weight of a person. Do not stand or sit on your surface or place very heavy objects on weaker points.
• Dropping a heavy or sharp object onto a Ceramic surface may cause it to chip or crack. Its hardness can make it more susceptible to chipping, particular on the edges, i.e around a sink.

How to care?

For daily care of your surface wipe with a moist, soft cloth with a dilute, mild soapy solution (such as liquid dish soap) or common cleaning products. Rinse the cloth and wring out then wipe over the surface again to clear any traces of soap. Then buff with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Always ensure your cloth is clean. Never use an abrasive cloth or scouring pads.