Outdoor kitchen is a great way to enjoy the beauty of your backyard while cooking. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the countertop for your outdoor kitchen.
- Climate
- Aesthetics
- Durability
- Hygienic surface
- Maintenance
- cost
These are important factors to consider when selecting a material for your outdoor kitchen countertop. Let’s discuss –
7 Best Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Materials
#1. Granite Countertop
Granite is a classic choice for outdoor kitchen countertops because it is durable and easy to maintain. Additionally, granite is available in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find the perfect style for your outdoor kitchen.
Granite is also a great choice for food preparation, as it provides a smooth surface for chopping and slicing. Thanks to its scratch- and stain-resistant properties, granite requires minimal care to keep it looking its best.
Plus, periodic resealing will help to extend its lifespan.
However, it is important to be aware that darker colors such as black granite may become hot when under direct sunlight. To avoid this, placing your outdoor kitchen under a structure or choosing a lighter color of granite that won’t absorb as much heat.
Although granite is a bit more expensive than other countertop materials, its beauty and durability make it worth the investment.
#2. Quartzite Countertop
Quartz is a man-made stone composed of 90% ground quartz and 10% resins and pigments. It’s non-porous and resists scratches and stains, making it a good choice for indoor kitchens.
However, it’s not a good choice for outdoor use because the resin can turn yellow when exposed to direct sunlight.
An alternative, quartzite is a natural stone that is more durable and resistant to staining, heat, and discoloration than quartz. But quartzite is more expensive than the quartz countertop.
Like granite, quartzite is also a porous material, so it needs to be sealed properly to prevent staining. When sealed and maintained properly, quartzite countertops can provide a beautiful and long-lasting surface for your outdoor kitchen.
#3. Concrete Countertop
Concrete is a durable and versatile material, so it can be customized to fit your personal style. It is available in a variety of colors and textures. You can also stain or paint it to match any décor. But the sun, moisture and air can fade the color and turn yellow.
To keep your concrete countertop looking its best, place it in the shade as much as possible.
However, concrete countertops can be susceptible to scratching and cracking if they are not properly sealed or maintained. To avoid damage, it is important to regularly seal and clean concrete countertops.
With proper care, concrete countertops can last for many years.
#4. Stainless Steel Countertop
Stainless steel countertops are nonporous and hygienic, making them a clean and safe surface for food preparation. Stainless steel countertop is also easy to clean, you just simply wipe with a cleaner is all it takes to remove spills and splatters.
In addition, stainless steel can give your outdoor kitchen a modern look.
On the other side, stainless steel can get hot by exposure to the sun, making it uncomfortable to work on. If your outdoor kitchen is in a shaded area, this may not be an issue.
However, stainless steel countertops can rust over time, especially if it’s exposed to humidity and moisture. The surface of Stainless steel countertop is vulnerable to scratches and dents. Stainless steel can also show fingerprints and smudges easily.
So, it’s important to be aware of your countertops if you choose stainless steel.
#5. Tile Countertop
Outdoor tile countertops are an affordable option for you. With so many tile countertop colors and styles available, you can find the perfect one to match your outdoor kitchen’s design.
Also, you get different types of tile countertops for outdoor kitchens to choose from.
- Ceramic tile
- Porcelain tile
- Travertine tile
- Slate tile
- Granite tile
Each type of tile has its own unique benefits that make it ideal for outdoor kitchens. Two popular choices are ceramic and porcelain tile.
Ceramic tile is made of clay that is fired in a kiln, which makes them environmentally friendly.
Porcelain tiles are made from a denser, tougher clay that is fired at higher temperatures than ceramic tiles. This makes porcelain tiles more durable and resistant to moisture, staining, and fading.
Porcelain tiles are also less likely to crack than ceramic tiles. However, porcelain tiles are more expensive than ceramic tiles.
Overall, the grout between tiles is highly porous, which means it can be difficult to keep your countertop clean. Bacteria, filth, and stains can easily be absorbed, making it a challenge to keep your countertop hygienic.
Additionally, tile is brittle and can crack easily, especially if you live in a climate with freeze-thaw cycles.
However, it is important to keep in mind that replacing parts of a tile countertop may be difficult when trying to match the existing tile.
#6. Soapstone Countertop
Soapstone is a nonporous material, making them easy to keep clean and maintain. Plus, you don’t have to worry about resealing them. As the soapstone is also naturally stain and bacteria resistant, making it a sanitary option for food preparation.
One downside of soapstone is that it can be scratched, dinged or even chipped easily, but this can be easily fixed with a little bit of sandpaper.
However, soapstone comes in a different range, so you can choose according to your budget. Soapstone countertops are also available in a variety of colors, including dark colors that can create a dramatic look for your outdoor kitchen.
#7. Bluestone or Limestone Countertop
Both bluestone and limestone are natural stones that add elegance to outdoor kitchen space. Both materials are extremely durable and can withstand any climate or weather condition.
And while they both require some care and maintenance. Bluestone is a bit more expensive than limestone, but it is also less porous and therefore easier to keep clean.
Limestone is more susceptible to staining and etching, but many people feel that its natural beauty is worth the extra effort. It’s important to seal limestone before use to prevent staining.
Price Range of Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Material
| Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Material | Price range (per sq ft) |
| Tile | $10-40 per sq ft |
| Bluestone or Limestone | $25-70 per sq ft |
| Soapstone | $35-100 per sq ft |
| Concrete | $50-75 per sq ft |
| Granite | $50-100 per sq ft |
| Quartzite | $55-155 per sq ft |
| Stainless Steel | $70-100 per sq ft |
Conclusion
The best countertop for your outdoor kitchen depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you’re looking for a durable and stylish countertop material for your outdoor kitchen, granite is a great option. Also, granite is more resistant to scratches and stains.
If you are looking for an outdoor kitchen countertop that is less expensive and easier to customize, then a concrete countertop is a good option.