The popularity of outdoor kitchens has been rising for several years, and the trend doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. This added feature to your home may bring you and your guests lots of enjoyment. In addition, if you plan to sell your home, an updated outdoor kitchen can spark buyers’ interest, especially if you incorporate the right features.
One of the most prominent features of an outdoor kitchen is the countertop.
But not all outdoor countertops can withstand a constant pummeling from the weather outdoors, especially natural stone countertops. So, which natural stone countertop is the best outdoor countertop material?
Quartz is a Popular Indoor Countertop, But Don’t Use it Outdoors
Quartz is a beautiful and popular engineered stone that many homeowners install in their indoor kitchens. Since it is an artificial stone, manufacturers can offer a variety of colors and textures for buyers. In addition, it is an easy stone to maintain, which doesn’t need seals or polish like natural stones. Its only drawback is that it is not as heat resistant as natural stones.
Quartz may be resistant to most hot items. However, hot pans above 150 degrees may scorch the surface of your quartz countertops. So, this could make this type of countertop less than ideal for those preparing meals outdoors over a barbecue pit or grill. Hot meats and vegetables off the grill placed into bowls or pans may damage the surface of the quartz countertop. This can leave scorch stains or even discolor certain areas of the quartz countertops.
Mishaps like this aren’t the only problem with using quartz countertops outdoors. While they are very durable indoors, the UV rays of the sun outdoors can wreak havoc on the quartz countertops. So, since quartz can change colors when exposed to high temperatures, direct sunlight can ruin it.
Marble is Beautiful, But It Won’t Withstand the Outdoors Either
When it comes to natural stone, marble is one of the best, most durable stones on the market. It adds a dramatic touch to indoor kitchens. Each slab is unique because it is cut from various natural marble quarries throughout the world. Marble is very high maintenance, however. So, cutting peppers, citrus fruits, or other high acid items on it could etch the marble. Likewise, if your local neighborhood is known for high acid rain, this could also etch the marble. Therefore, marble is better suited for indoors.
For Outdoor Countertops, Granite is Your Best Choice
Outdoor spaces are all the rage nowadays. The pandemic has driven much of the indoor socializing to the outdoors. Naturally, homeowners want their guests to enjoy the experience and be comfortable. But they also want durable components. One of the most durable countertops you can get outdoors will be concrete. However, if you want to step it up a notch and impress your guests with more aesthetically pleasing options, natural stone is the way to go. The most durable of these options is a granite countertop.
But because granite is durable doesn’t mean that it won’t have issues, any stone material does. For example, your outdoor granite countertops may etch or crack. But on a good note, it is very resistant to stains and UV rays. Therefore, it is ideal for those who want to incorporate natural stone countertops into their outdoor kitchen design. With proper care use, these issues are rare and easy to fix.
Seal Granite…Always!
Granite’s drawback is that it is porous, like marble. This may allow bacteria to seep into it and start growing. Therefore, if you want to use it outdoors, it may be a good idea to seal it. This will keep you from worrying about foodborne illnesses arising from bacteria growing on your granite countertops. Sealing granite is a must both indoors and outdoors in order for you to enjoy and use it worry-free for years to come.
Are you ready to spruce up your outdoor kitchen for spectacular get-togethers with friends or family? Call Texas Granite Group today to get a FREE quote on granite installation for your outdoor granite countertop. If you already have granite countertops installed, but they are dull from etching or need sealing, we can also provide an estimate on these services.
Visit our countertop store located in the Austin area and get inspired with indoor and outdoor kitchen and bathroom renovation ideas. Designing, fabricating, and installing granite, marble and quartz countertops are our specialty for more than 20 years.