Are you ready to take your outdoor kitchen up a notch this spring or summer? Here at Dulles Granite, we have the perfect solution for you – granite countertops!
Granite is one of nature’s most beautiful stones, providing an elegant yet durable surface that will last through years of barbecues and backyard gatherings.
When it comes to choosing material for your outdoor kitchen counters, there are lots of options out there – but none quite like granite. Not only does this natural stone add style and elegance to any outdoor setting, but its durability also ensures that it won’t scratch or chip easily over time.
Benefits Of Granite Countertops For Outdoor Kitchens
Granite countertops for outdoor kitchens aren’t just a luxury – they’re practically a requirement if you want to get the most out of your outdoor kitchen.
I’m telling you, these granite countertops can transform any basic backyard into an oasis! Not only do they look great, but there are so many benefits that come with installing granite for your outdoor kitchen.
First off, when it comes to durability and longevity, nothing beats granite. This beautiful stone is strong enough to stand up against all types of weather conditions; rain or shine, hot or cold – no matter what Mother Nature throws at it, your granite countertop will remain unscathed.
Plus, since they’re made from natural minerals, they won’t fade over time like other materials, such as quartz which is manmade, might.
Second, let’s talk about convenience. Granite countertops make cooking outdoors effortless!
With their smooth surfaces and heat-resistant qualities, you don’t have to worry about anything bubbling over onto your counters — which is especially useful during those summer barbecues.
And on top of that, cleanup is super easy, too; just wipe down with warm water and mild soap, and voila! You’re done in minutes – not hours – leaving more time for enjoying the beautiful weather outside instead of scrubbing away inside.
Finally, we can’t forget about how aesthetically pleasing granite countertops look in an outdoor setting. All eyes will be drawn towards them as soon as people arrive; they add a touch of elegance while also providing functionality that makes entertaining a breeze. Whether you prefer traditional styles or something modern and sleek – whatever design fits your vision best – my team has got you covered!
Cost Of Installing Granite Countertops In An Outdoor Kitchen
Just so you know, there shouldn’t be any difference in square footage pricing between a granite countertop that will be installed outdoors versus indoors. The process of picking out the stone, templating, fabricating, and installing is pretty much the same.
The average price per square foot of granite is between $40 to $60. With higher quality and better-looking granite colors, you could be looking at anywhere from $60 to $100+ per square foot.
Working with a local granite fabricator-installer ensures that your selection process is smooth from start to finish; plus, they know exactly which products are suitable for exterior use.
Assessing The Durability Of Granite Countertops For Outdoor Kitchen Use
Granite is one of the strongest materials available today, so you don’t need to worry too much about its ability to hold up under tough conditions. However, if you want an even longer lifespan from your granite countertop, regular sealing and maintenance will go a long way towards protecting it from damage caused by water or UV rays over time.
Sealing And Protecting Granite Countertops In An Outdoor Kitchen
The first step when sealing and protecting granite countertops is to use a sealer specifically designed for natural stone surfaces. This provides vital protection from wind, rain, and sun damage which can cause fading or cracks over time. I always recommend using two coats for maximum coverage.
Finally, regular maintenance, such as cleaning with warm water and mild soap, will help protect against bacteria growth and keep your beautiful granite looking great year after year.
Comparing Granite Countertops To Other Materials For Outdoor Kitchens
Unlike other types of natural and manmade stones, granite stands up well against moisture, extreme temperatures, and UV rays from direct sunlight – all of which can cause damage to some stone types over time. Its natural beauty adds a touch of luxury that gives any outdoor kitchen an impressive look.
This makes it ideal for those who don’t want the hassle of constant upkeep on their outdoor kitchen space!
So while there are plenty of other materials out there worth considering – such as quartz or concrete – nothing quite beats the elegance and longevity of real granite countertops in an outdoor kitchen setting.
When you consider these factors along with its overall affordability (as quartz can be more expensive than granite), it becomes clear why so many homeowners prefer granite above all else.
What Other Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Options Are There
Let’s look at stainless steel. It is an extremely durable material that has a modern and sleek look. Plus, it requires very little maintenance and can stand up to both hot and cold temperatures without any issues – although, it will be colder on the surface when compared to those made of natural stone like granite.
Another popular choice is quartzite – not to be confused with “quartz”, we’ll cover that one next. This gorgeous material offers all the benefits of granite but also adds its own unique characteristics as well. Quartzite, a beautiful natural stone, is highly resistant to scratches and staining but does need to be resealed at least once a year to keep it looking its best.
Lastly, we have quartz countertops – an undoubtedly beautiful manmade stone surface material. Unlike granite or quartzite (see above), this is a non-porous material. This means it’s highly resistant to staining, super easy to clean and maintain, and, to top it all off – scratch resistant!
The range of colors, finishes, and patterns is absolutely amazing. I promise you won’t have any issues finding a color that matches your patio or backyard kitchen theme.
Pros And Cons Of Granite Countertops For Outdoor Kitchens
Pros
• Durability – Granite is incredibly durable, meaning it won’t easily chip or scratch.
• Heat Resistance – It doesn’t matter how hot the weather gets, granite will withstand it. After all, it has already spent millions of years underneath the earth.
• Easy Maintenance – Cleaning up spills is quick and easy with granite surfaces.
• Aesthetic Appeal – The natural beauty and unique color variations make for one-of-a-kind designs. You will surely make an impact when your family, friends, and neighbors see it!
• Low Cost – Compared to marble or quartz, granite is much more cost-effective
Cons
• Heavy Weight – Because of their density, installing these countertops requires special expertise (give us a call to learn more).
• Sealing Required – Granite needs regular sealing every six to twelve months to maintain stain resistance and remain shining.
• Limited Colors & Patterns – Most slabs come in generic colors, so matching existing décor may be difficult.
As a local fabricator and installer of granite countertops for outdoor kitchens, we understand both sides of the debate. When deciding on whether or not granite is right for you, take into account all of these factors and weigh them against your budget and design vision.
Remember, too, that beyond just looks, the way you use your outdoor kitchen plays an important role when choosing materials.
Consider How You Will Use The Outdoor Granite Countertops
Irony alert: when it comes to outdoor granite countertops, there’s no such thing as a ‘no-brainer’! Sure, they look beautiful and are incredibly durable – but you need to really consider how you’ll use them before deciding if they’re right for your outdoor kitchen.
From the placement of appliances to seating arrangements, you can create the perfect spot for entertaining or enjoying a quiet meal in nature.
But will these granite countertops hold up against whatever Mother Nature throws at them? Will their beauty last through harsh winters and blazing summers?
The good news is that, yes, granite countertops for outdoor kitchens can withstand all sorts of weather conditions – from extreme temperatures to snow and ice. If sealed properly by a professional fabricator and installer, your granite counters should stay looking great year after year.
So don’t let the idea of maintenance put you off – just make sure you get advice from professionals about what steps you should take to keep your new investment in top shape! With proper care, your stunning outdoor kitchen will be ready any time you want it to serve its purpose.
What’s Involved In Cleaning And Maintaining Outdoor Granite Countertops
If there are spills or messes, wiping them up right away helps prevent staining. A mild soap solution with warm water will do the trick for most stains – just be sure not to use any abrasive cleaners that may scratch the surface.
To keep your countertop shining, it’s also recommended to reseal every six to twelve months, depending on usage and climate conditions. In other words, set a reminder for yourself to reseal them come spring and then again toward the end of summer (after all that barbecuing!)
How Does Climate Affect Outdoor Granite Countertops
When selecting an outdoor countertop material, it’s important to consider both the weather conditions in your area as well as any potential maintenance needs. Here are some key points to keep in mind when looking at granite:
•Granite is heat-resistant – perfect for hot summer days!
•It won’t fade or weaken due to exposure to UV light from the sun, unlike quartz or engineered stone surfaces.
•Granite is not necessarily waterproof, but it can be if sealed properly and regularly. This helps it stand up against rain and snow better, particularly in darker granite colors.
The biggest factor that affects granite outdoors is freezing temperatures. When water penetrates the surface of natural stone through tiny cracks and crevices, then freezes, it expands and can cause fractures in the stone.
To prevent this issue, sealants should be used regularly on all external surfaces of granite countertops exposed to freeze/thaw cycles like those experienced during winter months. This helps protect them from absorbing moisture which otherwise could lead to cracking or other damage over time.
In addition to regular sealing and cleaning with mild soap solutions, there are additional steps you can take, such as covering your countertop if there will be long periods of cold temperatures outside – just remember not to cover too tightly since trapped air may cause problems!
The Final Verdict On Granite Countertops For Outdoor Kitchens
The decision to install granite countertops in your outdoor kitchen is an investment that you won’t regret. It offers the perfect combination of strength and beauty, making it a great choice for any outdoor space.
Not only will it be able to withstand all kinds of weather conditions, but its natural aesthetic can easily become the centerpiece of your backyard or patio.
When we install granite countertops outdoors, our team takes extra care to ensure they’re sealed properly, so they last as long as possible.
At the end of the day, choosing granite for your outdoor kitchen is about more than just looks – it’s also about investing in something that’s built to last.
When you work with us, our team and I guarantee that we’ll provide top-notch service each step of the way and create a beautiful finish product that will stand up against Mother Nature’s toughest elements year after year. Ready to get a Free Estimate?
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Cheapest Outdoor Countertop Material?
I’d probably say tile countertops. If this is a project you’re willing to DIY, you can find cheap ceramic tile for as little as $10 to $12 per square foot. Porcelain is more expensive, of course, but it is more durable, and you’ll have more color options.
What’s important with tiles is making sure you install them correctly. Most tile installations – whether in flooring or countertops – crack due to a bad install.
Now, here’s one huge drawback, in my opinion – cleaning! Yup! You’ll end up with dozens or hundreds of grout lines that are porous and difficult to clean. Listen, I’m not trying to be negative about it, just keep that in mind 🙂
Can You Use Laminate Countertops Outdoors?
Nope! Don’t even think about it, my friend. If you’ve ever had laminate countertops in your kitchen, then you already know how moisture can easily penetrate them – from any side.
Do Outdoor Granite Countertops Need To Be Sealed?
Yes, and here’s what we recommend. If you want to ensure that your countertops remain in optimal condition for as long as possible, we recommend sealing them every six to twelve months. A good rule of thumb is to reseal them at the beginning of spring and then again at the end of summer. This will help protect them all through the fall and winter.
