To spend a cozy weekend with your family and friends can be an amazing stress buster. In fact, having a get-together in your home with your loved ones and bonding over homemade barbeque food is the secret recipe for happiness.
Do you know what you need to plan such events? You need to have an outdoor kitchen with modern amenities. It will create a natural gathering space, encouraging family and friends to come together in an open environment.
The most important thing to improve the functionality of your home’s outdoor kitchen is to get a suitable kitchen countertop installed. Along with this, you must opt for the finest material, the top trend, and follow maintenance tips for the kitchen countertop as well.
In this article, you’ll learn about the best materials, leading trends, and maintenance tips for the outdoor kitchen countertop. So, let’s begin.
Choose the right materials for outdoor kitchen countertop
For your outdoor kitchen, selecting tough materials can be a wise choice. It will ensure that the countertop can last for years without any significant impact on it due to sunlight and constant usage.
The two types of outdoor kitchen countertop materials you can choose from are as follows:
1. Granite
Granite is one of the strongest kitchen countertop materials available in the market. It can absorb the heat, resist strains, and still look brand-new. The best part about them is that they come in a variety of colours. You can match the granite countertop’s colour with the furniture of your outdoor kitchen or according to your requirements.
Here are some of the benefits of granite countertops:-
● Granite is a natural product quarried all around the world.
● It is available in distinct patterns, colours, and designs.
● They add fabulous value to your home and are a worthwhile investment.
2. Quartz
Quartz is a modern marvel, and it is one of the most elegant countertop materials. One of the USPs of quartz countertops is that they are very low-maintenance. They mimic natural stone, and that too, without any need for sealing. It is a breeze to wipe off any unwanted spills on the quartz countertop
The top advantages of installing quartz countertops in your outdoor kitchen are as follows:-
● Quartz is resistant to any cracks, dents, and scratches.
● The manufacturing of this material is done by using 95% ground quartz with 5% polymers and resins.
● You can get customized quartz countertops in terms of designs, patterns, and colours.
● Its versatility makes it one of the best options for your outdoor kitchen countertop.
Current trends in outdoor kitchen countertop designs
There are many trends in outdoor kitchen countertop designs finding a lot of prominence nowadays. The top ones amongst them are:-
● Natural stones supremacy
Natural stones are a timeless option, and they are called classic for a reason. Many individuals are choosing natural stone countertops with a textured finish, mainly granite countertops, for their outdoor kitchens. They provide terrific durability, beauty, and functionality to your kitchen. Furthermore, their textured finishes add a unique character and are less likely to show water spots.
● Mixing and matching
Experimenting with the outdoor kitchen countertop materials will result in a truly unique countertop. So, you must choose the mixing and matching option for countertops and cabinets. The combination of materials for the countertop will create an eye-catching design. For example, pair a Bianco Antico granite countertop with an Antique White cabinet.
● Environment-friendly options
Sustainable homes are becoming the norm in today’s world and the same goes for your outdoor kitchen. You can consider eco-friendly materials for your countertop to do your bit for Mother Nature. These countertops will offer a stylish and sustainable option for your outdoor space.
The best maintenance practices for longevity and aesthetics
If you want to keep your outdoor kitchen countertops in optimal condition, you have to follow proven maintenance practices. These practices will ensure a longer lifespan of the countertop. Some of the most outstanding maintenance routines are as follows:-
❖ Regular cleaning routines
The countertop will always look fresh just by following regular cleaning routines. Use a detergent or soap and water for these routines, along with regular wipes.
❖ Mindful handling of hot items
Countertops are very tough, but hot pots and pans can cause some damage to them. So, be gentle while handling the hot stuff.
❖ Protecting against stains
Spills and splatters are a common scene in any kitchen. To have a stain-free countertop, deal with them promptly. Whether it’s ketchup or olive oil, remove the stains as soon as you can.
❖ Opt for quality sealants
Always use good-quality sealants for your countertop. It removes the moisture and makes your countertop look fresh. A pro tip is to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for resealing.
❖ Gentle cleaners for long-term shine
Never use harsh chemicals for cleaning the countertop as they can take away its natural shine. Instead, opt for gentle cleaners to maintain that glossy finish.
❖ Embrace the natural aging process
Countertops are known to look more distinguished with time. So, you should embrace the natural aging process of the outdoor kitchen countertop.
❖ Periodic check-ups
You need to take good care of the kitchen countertop to extend its lifespan. You can cover it up or move it inside your home in extreme weather. Moreover, have periodic checks to gauge their condition.
❖ Wipe away water continuously
Water can cause damage to the countertop, especially in the winter. So, seal your outdoor kitchen countertop when the outside weather is harsher. Alongside this, wipe away any standing water.
❖ Addressing minor scratches
Minor scratches are a common occurrence on the countertops. Address them promptly by using touch-up kits or consult with an expert.
Final Thoughts
Outdoor kitchens can become the heartbeat of your home, where you can bond with your family and friends. However, you need to choose the right material for the outdoor kitchen countertop. Moreover, be aware of the top trends for having a contemporary countertop. Alongside this, follow the best maintenance practices for elongating the countertop’s lifespan. All these things will ensure that the countertops become a witness to countless family gatherings and get-togethers.
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