Outdoor countertops are available in a multitude of options for home owners to dwell and decide on one that is best for their home. Here are 5 great choices for countertops that can be used for spaces outside their home.
Outdoor Countertops #1: Granite
Among other materials, granite stands out as a good choice for outdoor kitchen countertops because it is durable and very appealing. Since granite is one of the strongest stones in nature, it can easily withstand the forces from outdoors that include extreme sunlight, fluctuations in temperature and moisture. Its heat resistance is very important in an outdoor kitchen where grilling and cooking are more frequent.
By nature, granite is resistant to scratches and stains although its appearance can be protected by sealing properly. Also, various colours and patterns in the granite allow customisation where home owners can choose a style that would benefit their outdoor decor. While periodic sealing is necessary to prevent stains and ensure granite's longevity, this does not pose any great difficulty when placed against other materials.
Besides that, the density and solid nature of granite increase its durability; therefore, it is a good investment for the outdoors. The natural beauty combined with functional advantages helps to keep granite on the top of the home owner's list when trying to invest in an outdoor kitchen that shows class and practicality. Added to that, granite never seems to go out of style — increasing its desirability because it is rugged yet serves as a chic choice to improve the ambience of an outdoor area.
In conclusion, granite's durability, heat resistance and aesthetic flexibility combine to create an outstanding choice for those looking to create an extraordinary and functional outdoor kitchen environment.
Outdoor Countertops #2: Silestone
Silestone is ideal for outdoor kitchen countertops. The combination of durability and elegance together with functionality makes it endure outside environments easily. Mainly made from natural quartz crystals, Silestone surfaces are manufactured to be resistant to heat, moisture and stains — very suitable to be used outdoors.
Unlike the case with natural stone countertops which at times require sealing regularly, the non-porous surface of Silestone eliminates any risk of absorption — reducing the opportunity for staining and bacterial growth. This feature is particularly beneficial in outdoor settings when spills and exposure to the elements are more common.
Besides the practical advantages it gives, Silestone offers a multitude of colours and textures so that home owners can satisfy their aesthetic needs without losing or compromising on the performance of the material. UV rays will not affect either the colour or the pattern after a significant period of use; hence, it is effective even when it is exposed to sunlight. Besides, its surface resists high temperatures which is an important factor in cooking outdoors because hot pots and pans is often times placed on these countertops along with weather fluctuations.
Cleaning is the minimum maintenance required when it comes to Silestone which only requires the use of mild soap and water to retain its looks and hygiene. This ease of upkeep besides the capacity to maintain look and functionality during years of exposure to elements makes Silestone one of the leading options for outdoor kitchens.
Be it a sleek modern space or a more traditional looking outdoors, Silestone can bring the robustness and style to make your outdoor cooking experience truly great while surviving the rigours of the outdoors.
Outdoor Countertops #3: Sintered Stone
Sintered stone has evolved to become one of the premium choices when it comes to outdoor kitchen countertops. In conditions with tough weather areas, the material proves superior in durability and performance. Engineered via a high-temperature and high-pressure process, sintered stone resists heat, UV rays and moisture. This makes it an ideal surface for outdoor settings where exposure to the elements is inevitable.
Unlike natural stone, sintered stone is non-porous and because of this, liquids or stains cannot be absorbed into this material. Thus, it will not compromise appearance or integrity from spills or fluctuation in temperatures. Its resistance to scratches and impacts allows it to be suitable for being used outdoors in kitchens where heavy pots, utensils and general outdoor wear and tear are inevitable.
Besides that, sintered stone is easy to maintain as simple cleaning will suffice for it to be in prime condition — immense added advantage considering outdoor settings where maintenance tends to be more difficult. On top of this, the material also offers a large range of options with regard to aesthetics where sleek modern finishes are combined with textures that mimic natural stone. In fact, though the upfront cost of sintered stone is a little higher compared to more traditional countertop materials, the long-term benefits made up of minimal upkeep and enduring beauty make it an entirely justifiable price.
All in all, strength, low maintenance and aesthetic versatility make sintered stone one of the best choices for building a functional and stylish outdoor kitchen that can withstand the rigours of outdoor use.
Outdoor Countertops #4: Concrete
Concrete is one of the most sought-after materials for outdoor kitchen use due to its ideal mix of durability, flexibility and aesthetic value. Most of the advantages offered by this material are grounded on the exceptional durability of concrete. Unlike other materials, concretes can bear exposure to the outdoors that includes extreme temperatures, heavy impacts and constant exposure to elements. That makes it resilient and perfect for outdoor kitchens as they are used frequently and have to put up with harsh weather.
Besides, concrete countertops are very adaptable to any design or preference. They can virtually be moulded into any shape and finished in an array of colours, textures and patterns — allowing a home owners to create a unique appearance that best reflects their outdoors. This makes it even more appealing as one can have features such as built-in sinks or cooking surfaces integrated into the countertops.
Additionally, concrete countertops are resistant but maintenance is needed to make them more durable. Sealing to avoid moisture and stains is necessary — resealing after periodic intervals may be recommended to maintain the integrity of the surface. Although it requires sealing to maintain, concrete's inherently heat-resistant surface makes it practical for grill and food preparation areas.
Concrete countertops are also available with optional additives such as recycled glass or colourful add ons which increase visual interest and add an eco-friendly component. Among all the materials available, concrete is uniquely versatile, durable for outdoor kitchens and is a combination of practical benefits with customisation options to meet functional needs and design preferences.
Outdoor Countertops #5: Stainless Steel
Stainless steel would be the ultimate choice for outdoor kitchen countertops as it is very durable and requires low maintenance. For outdoors, stainless steel countertops are resilient enough to withstand any conditions to counter heat, moisture or discolouration that happens from grilled meats and foods prepared under any weather condition. There is no room for the spills and stains to penetrate the surface of this non-porous material; hence, it is very easy to clean.
Besides, this material is able to resist high temperatures from hot pots and pans without warping or discolouring. The sleek and modern look works very well with various designs in an outdoor kitchen — giving it a professional and sleek touch while adding sophistication to the ambience of the area. While stainless steel does become hot to the touch when subjected to the direct sun and it shows fingerprints and water spots, a quick cleaning with any stainless steel cleaner keeps it looking new. Its hardness generally makes it a popular choice outdoors for kitchens due to its practicality and versatility.
Secondly, resistance to rust and corrosion are elements that make stainless steel very useful in outdoors. Overall, stainless steel combines functionality with style — making it one of the best choices to be installed as a countertop in an outdoor kitchen.
