An outdoor kitchen can be the centerpiece of your summer! One of the most popular questions we get at Marble & Granite, Inc., this time of year is: What’s the best countertop surface to use outside? Our customers know there are endless choices when it comes to durable countertop materials, but they sometimes want a little advice about which ones will stand up to the elements and stay looking good for a long, long time. 

When designing an outdoor kitchen, it is crucial to use materials that will ensure your outdoor kitchen you design won’t deteriorate outside in the elements. Even if it’s under a roof, it’s wise to select surfacing that is designed to stand up to the elements, especially here in New England. 

Your individual choice depends on a lot of factors. However, there are two materials that we at Marble & Granite, Inc. feel are superior to the others when it comes to outdoor use. One material is natural. The other is manmade. These materials are granite and Neolith. Here in this week’s blog, we’ll explain the reasons that granite is tops in our book…

Of course you are familiar with the beauty of natural stone like granite. In fact, odds are your indoor kitchen probably has granite countertops. Homeowners love granite because it offers a natural elegance, plus it’s a choice that’s durable and long lasting (with proper care.) Some of the very same reasons that granite is touted for the indoor kitchen make it a great choice for the outdoor one as well. Granite is one of the hardest natural materials on earth. Formed from mica, feldspar, and quartz, it will stand up to scratches and temperature changes. When it’s used indoors, granite that’s sealed will resist stains, but it’s a little trickier outside. Even if you do seal outdoor granite, the sun and elements will erode it over time. So you will either need to seal it often or accept the natural patina that develops over time. 

Be aware that lighter granite colors will fade more out in the sun, and darker granite colors can become exceptionally hot to the touch. Polished granite will also become very hot out in the sunshine. Opt for honed or matte finishes for outdoor granite countertops. If granite is a countertop choice that interests you, check out these colors: 
Feel free to peruse the variety of granite that we have available on our website or visit either of our two New England locations. Be sure to check back in with us next week when we talk about the innovative, nearly bulletproof Neolith—another surface that’s an ideal choice for outdoor kitchens.