Have you always dreamed of an upgraded BBQ area? Do you love to entertain in the summer? Well, adding stone countertops can be just the update you are looking for.
This blog discusses the benefits and drawbacks of various outdoor materials for upgrading your BBQ area or an outdoor kitchen, as well as some upcoming trends for 2023.
Outdoor Countertops Material Pros and Cons
What materials can be used for outdoor countertops and design in 2023?
There are several materials that can be used for outdoor kitchens in 2023, including stainless steel, concrete, stone, and brick. It is important to consider durability, resistance to weather and moisture, and ease of maintenance when selecting materials for an outdoor kitchen.
Quartz
Yes, quartz can be used for outdoor kitchen applications.
Pros:
- Durability
- Resistance to staining and scratching
- Low maintenance requirements
Cons:
- Quartz can fade over time when exposed to direct sunlight
- Extreme temperature changes can cause the quartz to crack.
Granite
Yes, granite can be used for outdoor kitchen applications such as paving, walls, and countertops.
Pros:
- Durability: Granite is a hard and dense stone that can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy foot traffic.
- Aesthetics: Granite comes in a variety of colors and patterns, making it a versatile option for outdoor design.
- Low Maintenance: Granite requires minimal maintenance and is resistant to stains, scratches, and heat.
Cons:
- Cost: Granite is generally more expensive than other outdoor materials such as concrete or brick.
- When wet, granite can become slippery and pose a safety hazard.
- Color Fading: Over time, exposure to sunlight can cause the color of granite to fade.
Porcelain
Yes, porcelain can be used for outdoor kitchen applications because it is highly durable and resistant to weather conditions.
Pros:
- Resistance to frost, stains, and scratches
- Low maintenance requirements
Cons:
- Can be more expensive than other outdoor materials such as concrete or natural stone
- Slipperiness: it may be slippery when wet. It is important to choose a slip-resistant finish and to ensure proper installation to prevent any potential hazards.
Dekton by Cosentino
Yes, Dekton by Cosentino can be used for outdoor kitchen applications.
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Resistant to UV rays, scratches, and stains
- Requires minimal maintenance
Cons:
- It can be expensive
- It may not be available in as many colors or textures as other outdoor materials.
Tile
Yes, tiles can be used for outdoor kitchen applications.
Pros:
- Durability: Tiles are strong and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Easy to clean: Tiles are easy to clean and maintain, making them a practical choice for outdoor kitchens.
- Variety: Tiles come in a variety of colors, styles, and textures, giving you endless design options.
- Slip-resistant: Many outdoor tiles are designed to be slip-resistant, making them a safer option for outdoor kitchens.
Cons:
- Cost: Tiles can be more expensive than other options, such as concrete or brick.
- Installation: Proper installation is crucial for outdoor tiles, and it can be more complex than other options.
- Temperature: Tiles can become hot in direct sunlight, which may be uncomfortable to walk on barefoot.
- Porosity: Some tiles are porous and can absorb moisture, which can lead to cracking and damage over time.
Concrete
Yes, concrete can be used for outdoor kitchen applications.
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Resistant to UV rays, scratches, and stains
- Requires minimal maintenance
Cons:
- Need for sealing to prevent stains and cracking over time
- Can be prone to discoloration and may not be the best option for extremely cold climates.
Stainless Steel
Yes, stainless steel can be used for outdoor kitchen applications.
Pros:
- Durability
- Resistant to corrosion
- Easy to clean
- Has a sleek modern look
Cons:
- It can scratch and show fingerprints
- It may discolor over time
- It can be expensive compared to other materials.
Brick
Yes, brick can be used for outdoor kitchen applications.
Pros:
- Brick is durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
- It has a classic, timeless look that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces.
- Brick is low maintenance and easy to clean.
Cons:
- It can be more expensive than other materials.
- Brick may require sealing to prevent water damage and staining.
- The surface can be rough and porous, making it more difficult to clean than smoother materials.
No matter which material you decide best suits your style, budget, and needs, we always recommend having a professional do the installation and fabrication. By hiring a professional you can have the peace of mind that any product warranties will remain valid and your product will look great and last for years to come.
Outdoor BBQ and Kitchen Trends 2023
With the warmer weather just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about your outdoor space. One of the most popular trends for outdoor spaces is an outdoor kitchen. An outdoor kitchen can significantly add value to your home and provide a place to entertain guests outdoors and enjoy throughout the seasons. Here are some of the top outdoor kitchen trends that will be popular in 2023.
Environmental Considerations
It’s great to see more people considering the environment when building outdoor kitchens. Using materials like recycled wood or metal and avoiding harmful chemicals in paints or sealants can help reduce your environmental impact. Energy-efficient appliances like low-flow faucets, tankless water heaters, and solar-powered lights are also great options to consider for both the environment and your wallet.
Multi-Functional Spaces
Multi-functional spaces such as outdoor kitchens allow homeowners to combine different activities into one area, maximizing their use of space. In addition to cooking, these spaces can be used for entertaining guests or relaxing outdoors. Adding seating areas, a cooking station, or a fire pit can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.
Outdoor Cooking Appliances and Features
Outdoor kitchens have a variety of appliances and features to choose from. Smokers are a popular appliance, while pizza ovens, side burners, refrigerators, and dishwashers are also commonly used.
Outdoor bar areas are a trendy feature, with permanent or portable options available that include ice makers, wine coolers, and storage drawers. This makes entertaining guests easier and keeps supplies organized.
Built-in Storage
For outdoor kitchens, it is important to have ample storage space in the form of weatherproof cabinets and shelves to keep things organized and protect utensils, plates, spices, and ingredients from the elements. Look for durable materials that can withstand sun, wind, and rain.
Smart Technology
The latest trend in outdoor kitchens is to incorporate smart technology. This allows for easy control of lighting and music and even lets you adjust appliance settings with voice commands. Consider adding smart features to your outdoor kitchen for a modern touch.
We hope that the blog post was helpful for you in considering your outdoor BBQ or kitchen update!
Remember Granite City Interiors has the highest caliber designers to help with all your countertop, cabinet, tile, and flooring needs. We also do all our own countertop fabrication helping to keep the costs low for our customers.