If you are getting ready to build or remodel your outdoor kitchen, there are many details to consider. One of the most important is where to place your countertops and what materials to construct them with. Many may give you the look you are trying to achieve but may require more maintenance than you are willing to perform. Others may not hold up in the weather as well as you would like.
Take a look at a few of the materials and the pros and cons they will offer your outdoor kitchen.
Granite
Granite comes in a wide array of colors and styles that will compliment your kitchen design. They are stain and scratch-resistant. Granite is one of the hardest stones formed by intense natural heat. The composition makes it impervious to high temperatures; therefore, not easily damaged by hot pots and pans.
Some granites are more porous than others and may require sealing periodically to protect them from staining. Your granite company will advise you which ones these are and the best sealant to use. Out of your choices, granite can be one of the higher in cost but remember; you get what you pay for.
Soapstone
If you are looking for a non-porous material that will not require sealing, you may want to consider some of the soapstone on the market. It is straightforward to clean using soap and water. The milky appearance resulting from the talc in the soapstone produces a more rustic look than some of the elegant looks created by granite, slate, or marble.
The natural shades of this stone are considered warmer than some of the cool tones of other materials, but unfortunately, it is more limited in colors. While you will not find some of the pinks, greens, or blues you can find in some other choices, you can find it in a range of colors from pure white with rich marbling, off-whites, grays, and more.
Soapstone is softer than some of the other stones on the market. It is more malleable, but it is not so fragile that you have to worry about cracking or reactions to weather extremes.
Because soapstone is a softer stone, it can show scratches and nicks. Scratches can be buffed out with fine sandpaper using a circular motion followed by an application of mineral oil. To minimize scratching, always use a cutting board and don't cut food directly on the counter.
Concrete
Concrete has a multitude of uses in your outdoor kitchen design. It is a much cheaper option with more flexibility than some of the other contenders. Because it starts as a liquid, you can pour it into a wide variety of shapes and designs. You can integrate other materials into your concrete, and it can be dyed practically any color you want using integral color, staining, or both. Because concrete is poured and not laid, there are also few if any grout lines to deal with.
As a contender for your countertops, it does have some downsides. While concrete is versatile and durable, it can be tricky to install and can crack over time if you do not keep it properly sealed. If stained, it will need to be in a location that does not get a lot of sun due to its tendency to fade.
If you want to see what some of these options look like or see some of the other stones you can choose from, contact
Best Marble & Granite Company. We have a wide selection of materials that will enhance any design you choose. Give us a call today so we can help you get your project started.
