If you’re deciding between granite, travertine, or porcelain, then you have many options for the material that will make your outdoor counters look their best. Here’s a guide to help you decide between the four most popular choices. For a more practical approach, consider installing glass tiles. These are both aesthetically pleasing and low-maintenance. They can be easily maintained with regular upkeep.
Granite
There are many advantages to using granite or quartzite as your material of choice for outdoor countertops. One of them is that both of them are incredibly durable. You can expect the countertop to be scratch-free for many years. Unlike other stones, however, these two are not immune to fading in the sun. You should also seal them each year to prevent damage. Granite and quartzite are both very durable, but you should use a trivet or pot holder to protect them from scratches and scuff marks.
Despite its durability, granite is not always the best choice for outdoor use. Because of its porous nature, it can be susceptible to staining from grease, wine, and other liquids. You should opt for a mid-tone stone that will not fade in the sun and won’t be prone to cracking or discoloration. Darker-colored stone can also become uncomfortable to touch, so you should avoid using it for outdoor countertops.
Another advantage of granite is its ease of use and maintenance. It won’t etch, lose its shine, or discolor. And it’s resistant to heat, so you don’t have to worry about burning yourself while cooking outdoors. And even though it can be a bit costly, granite is well worth the extra cost. A high-quality slab of granite will last for years and is a good option for outdoor countertops.
Travertine
If you’re planning to install an outdoor kitchen, travertine is the perfect choice for your counter. It is a natural stone that comes in a variety of colors. Its weathered appearance suits both formal and casual decor. There are a few cons to travertine, though. Read on to learn more about this stone’s characteristics and benefits. You may be surprised by the benefits and drawbacks that it can bring to your outdoor kitchen.
Because travertine is so porous, it absorbs liquids, oils, and grease. This makes it susceptible to etching. Foods with acidic content, such as tomato juice, wine, and vinegar, can etch travertine. Bleach, ammonia, and tomato juice can cause etching too. While polished travertine is resistant to stains, lingering spills can still leave marks.
The contrasting color palettes of marble and travertine are ideal for outdoor kitchens. Marble’s cool-toned veins are striking and dramatic; travertine’s subtle coloration is more understated. For an outdoor kitchen, a walnut travertine countertop with tumbled bases will add an elegant and natural look to your cooking space. If you don’t like the look of marble, travertine isn’t for you.
Porcelain
If you’re thinking about adding new outdoor countertops to your home, porcelain may be your best choice. Porcelain is non-porous and will not absorb any liquids, making it an excellent choice for use where food is prepared. However, porcelain can chip and crack, so be aware that you may need to invest in a trivet to protect your countertops if you plan on using a sharp utensil.
Porcelain is a practical choice for outdoor kitchen countertops. Made of non-porous ceramic clay, porcelain is resistant to heat, water, and harsh temperatures. Since porcelain does not stain or etch, it is a high-quality countertop material that performs well even in extreme environments. This makes porcelain a great choice for outdoor countertops because it does not fade or show signs of wear and tear.
If you’d like to keep the surface looking beautiful, soapstone is a great choice. It’s durable and non-porous, so it doesn’t require sealing, and it can withstand the sun’s rays. However, it’s important to remember that soapstone is not a high-maintenance material. It will fade over time, but if you care for it, you’ll have a lifetime of beautiful outdoor countertops.
Glass
Glass countertops are an attractive design addition to your outdoor kitchen. These countertops offer a variety of practical benefits, such as customization and durability. Since outdoor kitchens often face extreme weather conditions, exterior glass countertops are perfect. They can endure exposure to the elements without warping or damage. You can still enjoy the original look of your countertop despite these elements. Listed below are the benefits of glass countertops. Read on to learn more about these benefits and decide whether they are right for your outdoor kitchen.
While glass is the most durable material for an outdoor countertop, it is also the most expensive. This material is highly porous, so you will need to seal it once you have it installed. Also, it is not very easy to find a fabricator who will install it. Luckily, there are several types of glass countertops. For a countertop made of glass, honed glass is a great choice. Polished finishes can be easily ruined by the weather.
Marble is another option for an outdoor kitchen. This material is highly durable and lasts for years. It requires little maintenance and will naturally age. In addition, you can choose to incorporate decorative items into the glass, such as crystals, and even backlighting. However, glass countertops may not be the best choice for an outdoor kitchen because they can etch when exposed to acidic foods. Therefore, if you plan to cook outdoors, glass countertops are not for you.
Concrete
Concrete is the best material for outdoor countertops, but it’s not without its disadvantages. Because it’s porous, concrete countertops are susceptible to stains and bacteria. To keep stains from setting in, it’s best to seal the surface to prevent cracking and staining. Otherwise, concrete countertops may crack easily or chip if it’s exposed to water and other liquids. Compared to stone, concrete is easy to maintain and clean, so it’s ideal for outdoor areas.
Mix a gallon of cement with two to three parts sand or gravel. Mix for at least five minutes to achieve the desired consistency. Once you have the right consistency, add water if necessary. Pour the mix into a form and let it rest for a day before transferring it to the desired location. Make sure the mix reaches its full consistency before transferring it to the chosen spot. Do not forget to consolidate the corners to minimize the risk of cracks.
Another common option for concrete countertops is poured onto a base cabinet. The cost for an outdoor concrete countertop can range from $60 to $80 per square foot. Most interior concrete countertops are prefabricated, while outdoor countertops are poured directly onto base cabinets. Many building techniques are compatible with concrete countertops, and you can choose a variety of color variations to suit your outdoor setting. Regardless of what style you prefer, concrete is an excellent material for outdoor countertops.
Sintered stone
The benefits of using sintered stone over other materials include its durability, ease of cleaning, and affordability. However, the price of sintered stone will depend on several factors, including the design, size, and area covered. You should also consider the cost of an installer, as well as the materials and labor. If you are constructing an outdoor countertop, you may want to get a contractor to do the job for you, but it is not advisable to attempt the installation yourself.
The unique texture of sintered stone is one of its most appealing features. The material is made in large pieces, which minimizes the chances of cracks and ductility issues. Whether you are installing an outdoor countertop or a bathroom vanity, you can choose from a variety of colours and finishes. You can also install it on a back wall or floor. The natural stone might also be a good option, but it’s better to use sintered stone.
If you’re looking for a countertop for your outdoor kitchen, consider installing a sintered stone countertop. The process used to manufacture sintered stone is similar to that of natural stone. However, it does not take thousands of years. Instead, it uses modern technology to apply the same process to a man-made stone. In the process, the stone particles are heated to a high temperature and bonded together for a permanent surface. It’s also scratch and stain-resistant. Consequently, it’s the perfect choice for outdoor kitchens.
Tile
When choosing a countertop for an outdoor area, consider the weather conditions. Tile is easy to clean, but can be challenging to keep pristine when constantly exposed to the elements. Tile can range in price from inexpensive to expensive, so it all depends on your budget and personal preference. However, all-natural wooden countertops are a stylish option that is heat-resistant, durable, and easy to maintain. If you’re looking for a more rustic look, you might consider natural stone.
While tile is attractive and offers many design choices, it is difficult to maintain. Because water is a tough enemy of outdoor countertops, it can break them apart in just a few years. The most common damage to a tile countertop occurs when it delaminates from its concrete base. In addition to this, it can be hard to find an exact match for the tiles. Tile can also be expensive to replace, so it is best to choose tiles with smaller pieces.
Porcelain tile is another excellent material for an outdoor countertop. Porcelain is extremely hard, which makes it difficult to scratch and chip. Porcelain also has a constant color and is easier to repair than ceramic tile. Ceramic tile is also more durable than natural stone, but you should consider your local climate before committing to this material. This option is a budget-friendly option as well.
