Best Countertop Options for your Outdoor Kitchen
If you love to entertain, you’ll definitely want to plan for an outdoor kitchen in your new landscape design. One important aspect of outdoor kitchen design is the material chosen for countertops and work surfaces. You want beautiful outdoor countertops for your kitchen, but you also want to consider several other factors when deciding on the countertop material: durability, heat resistance, and hygiene being just a few concerns. Here are the pros and cons of some of the most popular countertop materials for your Poughkeepsie, NY, outdoor kitchen:
Stone Tile
This can be an appropriate countertop material provided it is coated with an acrylic sealer. Natural stone offers a rich texture and natural details that add character to the setting. Stone tile is durable and bears the pressures of the outdoors well. One drawback to this material is the tendency for dirt to collect in the grouting between the tiles. This can be limited with an effective sealer and regular cleaning. If you aren’t intending to place food directly onto the countertop during preparation, this aspect poses little concern.
Granite
Granite is a popular material because of its rugged good looks and the wide range of hues that are available. Granite offers a mottled surface with a natural sparkle and is available in colors ranging from white and grey, to orange, pink, and black. Polished granite is also an attractive option for a kitchen countertop because of its durability and low porosity. This means it won’t become damaged when battered by the elements and it remains stain-free since liquids are unlikely to penetrate its surface. Polished granite can become hot when exposed to direct sunlight, but this is largely dependent on the color selected.
Related: 4 Popular Natural Stones Used in Landscape Construction in Westchester County
Glazed Ceramic Tile
Many homeowners prefer glazed ceramic tiles as a countertop option. These are easy to clean and come in different sizes and colors. As with stone tile, the drawback lies in the joints between the tiles. Ceramic tile is durable to the elements, but may be susceptible if something is dropped on the surface.
Related: Minimize Trips Between the Home and Patio with a First-Class Outdoor Kitchen in Fishkill
Polished Concrete
Polished concrete is an attractive option for many. It’s relatively inexpensive and extremely durable. Although slight scratches can occur in the surface, the countertop can be resealed. Polished concrete also offers plenty of freedom when it comes to aesthetic, with a huge variety of color options available. Some manufacturers also offer interesting combinations of materials for added visual effect, such as recycled glass that is embedded into the polished surface for added color and shine.
Related: Accessible Yet Practical Outdoor Kitchen Design for Your NY Home
Stainless Steel
As far as hygiene goes, stainless steel is right up with the best of them. It’s easy to clean, a breeze to maintain and you can prep your meals right on the surface if you choose to. Naturally, it’s also stain and rust resistant. One drawback with stainless steel is that it can become lightly scuffed. Some homeowners also shy away from using stainless steel outdoors because of its reflective properties, but glare can be greatly reduced with a brushed or matte finish.
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