Outdoor Kitchen Countertops: Granite, Quartzite, And Soapstone Reign Supreme

Installing or upgrading an outdoor kitchen is an excellent way to enhance entertainment spaces and increase the resale value of your property. When you include durable and luxurious materials like soapstone, quartzite, and granite countertops, you can display your personal style and increase opportunities to maximize return on investment.

These popular countertop materials are well suited for outdoor use, offering resilient function paired with unrivaled natural beauty. With so many styles, we make it easy to find the perfect surface to elevate your outdoor kitchen and complement your design.

Consider the many benefits of granite, quartzite, or soapstone for your next home upgrade project.

THE ALLURE OF GRANITE COUNTERTOPS

Granite is a popular choice for countertops thanks to its incredible strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. This surface material is resistant to damage from heat, staining, scratching, etching, cracking, and chipping. It also holds up well to various weather conditions.

BIANCO ANTICO GRANITE

With MSI, you can access over 100 different granite countertop styles in numerous colors and patterns. One of the most beautiful and versatile varieties is Bianco Antico Granite, featuring a background of soft gray and warm taupe with pink flecks.

This granite pairs well with cool, warm palettes and offers a soft, warm ambiance. Expressive and full of movement, Bianco Antico is stunning next to heavy-grained wood elements in light to mid-tones. If you want to make your countertop the showpiece of your outdoor kitchen, choose flooring in a subtle shade of soft gray.

Preserve the beauty of this eye-catching stone with regular sealing that makes cleanup easy and helps prevent harm.

THE ELEGANCE OF QUARTZITE COUNTERTOPS

With dozens of options, you’ll have no trouble finding striking quartzite countertops to complete your outdoor kitchen when you choose MSI. Notable for exceptional strength and hardness, quartzite is another excellent option for outdoor use that offers a unique style.

Benefits include resistance to many common types of damage, including UV rays. If your outdoor kitchen is exposed to direct sunlight, you won’t have to worry about quartzite fading.

Quartzite offers outstanding character with singular veining patterns. Long, linear striations are popular patterns, but you can also find varieties featuring waves, cross-hatching, and soft, sharp, delicate, or bold veining.

ZERMAT QUARTZITE

Zermat Quartzite offers the timeless appeal of a soft white background streaked with delicate veins in shades from pale gray to charcoal. Classic linear striations are well-suited for expansive surfaces and waterfall countertops.

Beige tile flooring ensures that the brighter white of the quartzite enjoys a subtle visual boost, while dark wood ceiling panels add a cozy ambiance to a sizable, covered patio. Don’t forget to clean and maintain your quartzite countertops to ensure longevity.

THE BEAUTY OF SOAPSTONE COUNTERTOPS

There’s a lot to love about soapstone countertops, which add soft beauty to your outdoor spaces and offer outstanding practical benefits.

This stone is resistant to high temperatures and other potential harm and offers a naturally non-porous surface that resists staining and microbes, making it a hygienic solution for outdoor kitchen spaces.

BLACK SOAPSTONE

If you love the drama of a black countertop, you can’t go wrong with elegant Black Soapstone, featuring a charcoal background marked by gray veins in varying thicknesses.

Offset by beige stone flooring and wall tiles, as well as rich wood cabinets in cherry, this lovely and mysterious stone variety offers a statement style.

Soapstone is perfect for homeowners seeking low-maintenance surfaces. This non-porous stone requires an occasional application of mineral oil to retain the natural beauty of the color and pattern.

MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR NATURAL STONE COUNTERTOPS

Maintaining the beauty and functionality of stone countertops in your home involves regular cleaning and care. Here are some refined tips to ensure your countertops remain in top condition:

Daily Cleaning Practices: For everyday cleaning, opt for a cleaner specifically formulated for natural stone or simply use warm water and mild soap. It's crucial to thoroughly rinse the surface afterward to prevent any soapy residue from building up. When cleaning, use a soft sponge or a microfiber cloth to avoid scratching the surface. Steer clear of harsh chemicals, acidic cleaners, and abrasive tools, as these can harm the stone's finish or weaken the protective sealant.

Sealing for Protection: Sealing your natural stone countertops is an effective way to safeguard them against stains and damage. While the general recommendation is to reseal every one to two years, the actual frequency should be tailored to the stone's usage, type, and exposure to elements. For instance, denser stones like granite may not require sealing as often as more porous stones like marble. Note that soapstone, due to its unique properties, does not require sealing but may be treated with mineral oil to enhance its appearance. Assess your countertops' condition and usage to determine the optimal sealing schedule.

Precautions for Winter Weather: If your stone countertops are located outdoors and you're in a region prone to harsh winter conditions, additional precautions are advisable. Prior to the onset of freezing temperatures, consider resealing the countertops to provide extra protection against the elements. Utilizing a breathable yet waterproof cover can also be beneficial. Such a cover not only shields the stone from moisture and snow but also prevents water from becoming trapped and freezing, which could lead to cracks or other damage. Ensure the cover fits snugly to also deter animals seeking shelter in your outdoor space.

By following these updated maintenance tips, you can help ensure your natural stone countertops remain a beautiful and durable part of your home for years to come.

NATURAL STONE IS IDEAL FOR OUTDOOR KITCHENS

When you choose granite, quartzite, or soapstone countertops for your outdoor kitchen, you’ll enjoy a striking addition to your design and a strong and durable surface that will last for years.

With your preferences for function, aesthetics, and maintenance, it’s easy to find the best natural stone countertops for your home.

Are you interested in adding MSI stone countertops to your outdoor kitchen? Contact our knowledgeable team via live chat to learn more or find an authorized MSI dealer in your area to visit an MSI showroom in person.

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