Homeowners build outdoor kitchens for different reasons. Generally, outdoor kitchens make cooking easy, especially if you frequently have many guests coming over or if you often cook in large quantities. Outdoor kitchens are also great for small restaurants and eateries. With outdoor kitchens, you can enjoy clean, fresh air while you cook and control the mess cooking creates as much as possible.
To get the best out of your outdoor kitchen, prioritize choosing the best building materials. Most of the work – cutting, chopping, placement of hot pots and pans – happens on the countertops. As a result, you need to carefully pick the best countertop material for your outdoor kitchen countertops.
To equip you with the necessary information to make the best choices, the subsequent sections will discuss the factors to consider when choosing an outdoor countertop, the recommended materials for outdoor countertops, and the materials to avoid.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Outdoor Countertop Material
Not every material for indoor countertops will be a good choice for an outdoor setting because outdoor living space is generally more exposed to varying weather conditions like rain and extreme heat, which could significantly test and threaten their durability.
Frequent exposure to elements can also affect kitchen appliances, making them less durable than they are. Below are some factors you should consider when checking out different materials for your outdoor kitchen design.
1. Durability
When selecting materials for your outdoor kitchen, durability is crucial. The countertops should withstand diverse conditions such as humidity, moisture, direct sunlight, rain, and dust, ensuring long-lasting performance and resilience.
2. Frequency of Use
When choosing materials for your outdoor space, an important question is; “How often will I need to use this space”? Your answer to this question will influence the durable materials you should get, especially if you’re working with a strict budget. You may prefer an inexpensive outdoor kitchen if you intend to use it only once in a while.
3. Traffic
High-traffic kitchens should influence the quality, color, and design of the countertop materials chosen. For example, a busy outdoor kitchen with many cooks would require countertops with a busier pattern to conceal tough stains as much as possible.
4. Purpose
Materials chosen for an outdoor kitchen built for a family who simply enjoys outdoor cooking and small food business will vary. The homeowner may prefer fancy and elegant materials, while the small food business will most likely want something ordinary but functional. Purpose is, therefore, an important factor that kitchen designers consider when choosing countertop materials.
5. Budget
How much you’re willing to spend on your outdoor cooking space plays a role in the choice of materials. For example, stainless steel and concrete countertops are almost as durable as granite if well maintained and are cheaper than granite.
Top 5 Recommended Materials for an Outdoor Kitchen Countertop (with their pros and cons)
1. Natural stone
Natural stones like granite (when properly sealed), soapstone, travertine, limestone, etc., are head and shoulders above the rest when it comes to durability. They do not only work well for indoor kitchen countertops, but they are also an excellent choice for outdoor use.
They can withstand harsh weather conditions, are easy to clean, heat-resistant, and often come in a variety of colors that improve the aesthetic of your kitchen.
One of the downsides of the natural stone countertops mentioned earlier is that they are porous materials. You’d also need to reseal them periodically to keep them in good condition.
2. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel countertops are also considered highly durable. They are stain-resistant and can withstand harsh weather conditions, although they may get extremely hot in direct sunlight and, therefore, difficult to use.
Aside from its high tolerance for stains, they are also easy to keep clean and maintain. Stainless steel is generally cheaper than natural stone countertops, but they do not offer as much aesthetic appeal.
Stainless steel materials are non-porous. Hence, their antibacterial properties and resistance to stains.
3. Concrete Countertops
A concrete outdoor countertop material is also a durable option. It is tough and versatile as it can be easily customized to give you the best for your outdoor kitchen.
Concrete countertops can be stained with a variety of colors to add some aesthetic appeal. They can also be designed with broken tile pieces and different textures to make your outdoor kitchen look exactly how you want.
Like stone materials, concrete countertops are porous in nature. Porous countertops require sealing to prevent them from absorbing spills. A concrete countertop is prone to chipping, staining, and cracking if not properly sealed.
4. Tile Countertops
These include ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, etc. Tiles generally offer a wide variety of styles and designs to choose from. They are durable, smooth, affordable, and non-porous. Consequently, they are not easily stained, do not absorb spills, and have a lower tendency to promote bacteria build-up.
Tile countertops are installed by joining each tile piece using grout. Grout is a porous material that absorbs spills and can breed bacteria and other microorganisms.
Tiles can seem unnatural compared to natural stones like granite when laid and are prone to chipping and cracking.
5. Sintered Stone Countertops
This material is highly durable and made by compressing and heating natural materials to a point where they bond without the use of resins. It’s resistant to UV rays, temperature extremes, stains, and scratches, making it well-suited for outdoor environments.
Additionally, sintered stone is non-porous, which prevents absorption of moisture and makes it resistant to mold and mildew. These properties make it a practical and stylish choice for an outdoor kitchen setting.
What to Avoid When Choosing an Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Material
When choosing a countertop material for outdoor kitchens, avoid:
- Low-quality stones prone to cracking and staining from weather exposure.
- Non-sealed wood: Can warp, rot, or become infested with pests.
- Porous materials like unsealed granite or concrete, which can absorb moisture and promote mold growth.
- Light-colored surfaces that tend to show stains and dirt more easily.
- Materials sensitive to UV light: Certain plastics or resins that can fade or degrade.
- High-maintenance options requiring frequent sealing or special cleaning products.
- Incompatible finishes that are not designed for outdoor use can deteriorate quickly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right countertop for your outdoor kitchen is crucial for blending style with durability. Opt for materials like granite, and concrete that can withstand the elements while adding a touch of elegance to your space.
Avoid options that require high maintenance or are prone to damage from weather conditions. With the right selection, your outdoor kitchen will not only look stunning but also stand the test of time, offering both beauty and functionality for years to come.
