With families spending more time at home no wonder outdoor kitchens have become so popular in the United States. Putting in an outdoor kitchen has so many benefits that it ranks high on everyone’s home renovations list. One of the benefits of putting in an outdoor kitchen is the extension of living space that it provides homeowners for entertaining and private gatherings. Additionally, they add to your home’s value which makes it worth the investment. When designing your outdoor kitchen, there are numerous materials to choose from. Depending on your wants, needs and budget, there is a perfect fit for everyone!
There are multiple factors you will have to consider when choosing countertops for your outdoor kitchen. The biggest thing to consider would be the climate. Will your countertops be exposed to the rain? Will your kitchen be under a covered porch or will your countertops have direct sunlight? The outdoor elements can be much harsher on your countertops than the normal wear and tear of your indoor kitchen countertops. Because of this, you’ve got to know which material will work best. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best countertop for outdoor kitchens.
Granite
You can never go wrong with granite, especially for outdoor kitchens. Granite is a natural stone composed of several minerals including quartz, feldspar and mica. The formation of granite occurs when magma crystallizes slowly below the Earth’s surface which is why you will notice each granite slab comes with distinctive patterns and styles. Granite is known to withstand high temperatures as the heat will not burn the sturdy material. It can also weather extreme rain and snow. However, we still recommend your countertops be under a canopy or covered roof because it is porous. And you will need to have it sealed regularly and like any type of countertop, you do want to pick up spills quickly. But if you maintain it, it will last you a long time making it a top choice for outdoor kitchens. Check out our blog on how to clean granite countertops.
Porcelain / Ultra Compact Surface
Porcelain and ultra compact surfaces are also ideal for outdoor kitchens. They have the appearance of natural stone countertops but are engineered surfaces made from various minerals. These countertops are ideal for outdoor kitchens because they are scratch resistant, water and stain resistant and can withstand extreme heat. Also, there’s very little maintenance to these countertops making them a top choice for outdoor kitchens.
Soapstone
Soapstone is another option for outdoor kitchens. It’s nonporous and resistant to stains. It can also withstand the heat but it is recommended to be kept in the shade or under a porch. Soapstone is softer than other stones like granite, so you will need to take care with knives and other sharp objects as it is prone to dings and scratches.
Quartz
Quartz is generally not recommended for the outdoors because it is more sensitive to extreme temperatures. Both hot and cold temperatures can lead to cracks and will deter them more easily. Although quartz countertops are durable and easy to maintain, it will last longer in an indoor kitchen. Click here to see how to maintain your quartz countertops.
If you’re interested in discovering further information about outdoor kitchen countertops, kitchen or bathroom remodeling in Pittsburgh, feel free to get in contact with us. We offer a wide range of options to suit any upgrade you may desire. Allow us to aid you in your kitchen countertops Pittsburgh PA or bathroom renovation endeavors. We also offer visualizers if you aren’t sure what style you’d like! Don’t forget to explore our additional blog posts for valuable insights and advice on various home-related topics.
