Quartz will not get stained even by the most persistent liquids such as coffee or wine. It makes a good outdoor kitchen surface where you will have a lot of spills. This material is very hard and will handle pressure without breaking or cracking. It will not get scratched even if you cut directly on it.
While quartz features many traits that seem well-suited for outdoor use, the truth is it's often less than ideal. The main concern with quartz is its sensitivity to the elements, so we don't recommend using it outdoors for a few reasons. Quartz products are engineered blends of stone, resins, pigments, and polymers.
According to Neely, granite is “probably the most ideal for outdoor kitchen countertops,” citing its durability against stains and the elements. Granite countertops are extremely heavy and must be positioned and supported properly to avoid cracking.
Granite is arguably the best choice for an outdoor countertop. Granite is very durable, and when properly maintained it is not easily stained by moisture or sunlight. While granite does require sealing periodically, it is relatively easy to maintain.
Stainless steel is also one of the most popular outdoor kitchen cabinet materials because of its design versatility. Powder coating technology doesn't only prevent corrosion, it allows for a wide array of decorative finishes to be used.
If you're looking for the most durable and easy to clean surfaces, you can opt for a favourite among commercial kitchens—stainless steel worktops. They are incredibly hard-wearing, hygienic, and heat-resistant, making them ideal for avid chefs.
Your best bet would be HDPE (High-density polyethylene) for its durability and aesthetic. Although some buy outdoor kitchen wood cabinets… It's actually not the best idea! Wood can rot, warp, or crack outside.
Most quartz countertop manufacturers only produce surfaces meant for indoor use. If you use these surfaces outside, UV rays will cause them to fade and become weaker over time.
Extreme cold or moisture can damage some countertops
Unfortunately, some countertops are sensitive to extreme cold. For example, quartz countertops aren't just sensitive to heat. They can also crack if they're exposed to very cold temperatures.
Quartz can be more expensive than other countertops but is generally cheaper than natural stone and other luxury options. It does require professional installation and can discolor when exposed to high temperatures and extensive heat for long periods.
Look no further than Hanstone Quartz, Ascale Porcelain, and Hanex Acrylic Solid Surface. These solid surface materials offer durability, resistance to the elements, and various design options, making them ideal for outdoor applications. Let's explore why these materials are the top choices for outdoor countertops.
Quartzite is a non-porous material, meaning it is resistant to staining and damage from water. It is also highly scratch resistant as it is an extremely hard material (even harder than granite) and can withstand the elements making it a great choice for outdoor applications.
Outdoor Kitchen Countertops
You want to give yourself enough space so you don't feel too cramped. Indoor kitchen counters usually have a depth of about 24”, but to accommodate a built in grill, you should plan for a depth of at least 30” – 36”.
The low threshold makes quartz more likely to burn or break when in contact with heat. Therefore, you can put a hot mug of coffee on your countertop, but a searing hot pan or boiling pot of water could leave a burn mark.
The biggest consideration is how thick the quartz countertop you selected is. If you have 3cm quartz countertops, there's no need for plywood. They are thick enough to absorb and distribute any pressure across the integrity of the slab. If you selected a 2cm slab, you typically don't need to install plywood either.
Once installed, you can expect your quartz countertops to withstand heat up to about 300 degrees Fahrenheit. If exposed to temperatures above this range, the resin binders within the quartz slab can change their chemical state — often impacting the color of the quartz.
If you were to put a hot pan or pot on a quartz countertop, the countertop could become very damaged. Quartz is made up of mostly quartz mixed with resin. The resin in the quartz is highly affected by heat, and this is why placing a hot pan on quartz is so strongly discouraged.
While it is unlikely that tea and coffee mugs will burn through your quartz countertop, you do not want to risk it. Using coasters will protect your countertops from any burn and will help maintain them over time.
Does quartz fade in sunlight? Yes, it can. However, this typically only happens if you've used indoor quartz outside or exposed the countertop to direct sunlight for prolonged periods every single day.
Unlike laminate countertops, granite, marble and quartz counters are very hard, but not flexible. Natural stone counters do not have a plywood backing, so too much weight in one spot could cause a crack.
Nonporous materials do not have any entrance points for germs, making it nearly impossible for quartz countertops to host bacteria, mold, or mildew. High-quality antimicrobial quartz countertops can give homeowners peace of mind, especially if they spend a lot of their free time in the kitchen.
Although quartz itself is heat-resistant, the resin that holds quartz particles together is not. When you expose a quartz countertop to heat, the resin will melt, resulting in discoloration.
Whether you want to socialize or build a cozy place for your family, outdoor kitchens are a great addition to any property. Increased Property Value: An outdoor kitchen can increase the value of your home by up to 20%. This is because potential buyers are often attracted to homes with luxurious outdoor living spaces.
Protect your cabinets by using a sealant or varnish, which will help them withstand storms and UV rays and keep them looking fresh for much longer.