What’s the Difference Between a Porcelain and Ceramic Basin for Bathrooms?
It’s always difficult to find the perfect units and accessories for bathrooms. When it comes to a basin for bathrooms, not only does one need to decide on the shape but also whether the one you choose will be aesthetically pleasing. What one would typically look for in bathroom fixtures is durability, strength, and longevity as it is the most shared room in the house. Ceramic and porcelain have been used for centuries in the creation of bowls, carafes, and plates, many of which are on display in museums to this day, proving that they are the ideal materials to use in the making of a basin for bathrooms.
Ceramic basins have found their place in the world of prefabricated bathroom units through GEZA Home. Affordable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing – they fit into any space.
Basin for Bathrooms – Where Did it all Start?
From the bathhouses in ancient Rome to the washstands in the 16th century, a basin for a bathrooms has trodden a long path. Originally made from lead, the more affluent had these basins placed on washstands with a pitcher of water. Over 200 years, with hygiene becoming more important, the designs and materials used to make them became more elaborate. In the 1800s, cast-iron sinks were coated with white porcelain enamel, gaining popularity at a rapid rate. Where once they were set apart from the lavatory area, they have mostly found a place in a central room where all bathroom ablutions can be carried out.
The Structural Differences Between Porcelain and Ceramics
Where a kitchen is considered the heart of the home, a basin is considered the focal point of the bathroom. Porcelain and ceramic basins may look alike to the untrained eye but there are a few differences that one needs to take into consideration before final selection.
Porcelain is a ceramic material made from refined hard clay, primarily kaolin, a fine silicate-based material that once heated, makes it less porous and dense. Fired in a kiln, it presents a smooth and glossy surface similar to glass. Ceramics lending its base properties to porcelain is made from several materials, including clay, quartz, kaolin, or feldspar. Once fused, it is more malleable, allowing it to be sculpted into a variety of shapes. To make the blend harder, it is fired at almost twice the heat as porcelain.
Porcelain Basin for a Bathroom
Porcelain has been used throughout the world for centuries, finding its way into bathroom basin design. They can be cast as solid stand-alone basins or used as an enamel coating over steel, iron, or fireclay. Different glazes can be used to create various finishes.
As porcelain is effectively glass, it can be chipped, scratched, or cracked by sharp or heavy objects. Cleaning can become a chore as it is a material that doesn’t respond well to aggressive cleaning. Permanent scuff marks from using abrasives can reduce the lustre and shine of the surface. Despite its drawbacks, porcelain is a strong and durable material.
Ceramics Used for Bathroom Basins
Ceramic basins are the most widely used type of basin and adorn bathrooms worldwide. As basins are used constantly and by all, ceramics offer a more durable and low-maintenance option as this material can withstand the rigours of daily use. The surface is resistant to scratches, chips, and most harsh impacts and temperature changes will not affect the nature of the material.
The impenetrable surface of ceramic basins makes them easier to clean. Due to their waterproof surface, they are resistant to dirt and stains. Cleaned regularly, they are fairly resistant to stains and bacterial growth. Constant cleaning won’t result in scuff marks and should a deeper clean be required, harsh abrasives can be used without affecting the material.
Available in different shapes and sizes, ceramic basins easily blend in with any bathroom design.
At the end of the day, when designing your bathroom, you not only want the looks but you also want the quality of the product to remain throughout its lifetime.
Innovation and Design Like No Other
Let GEZA Home help you take the next step in your bathroom design with our prefabricated bathroom units. Our basins are made from ceramic, allowing us to offer you a product that will last. Combined with our shower cubicles, you will have a bathroom unit that speaks of innovation and uniqueness. Contact us to find out more about how our variety of prefabricated units can work for you.
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