What stone is best for outdoor countertops?

Not all stone is suited for outdoor use. Certain stone selections are less durable and may fade when exposed to sunlight or may be stained by moisture. Discover what stone we recommend for the great outdoor kitchens and tables…

Arguably, granite is considered the best choice for outdoor kitchen countertops. Granite is a natural stone that is both durable and beautiful. It comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Granite isn’t damaged by heat, and if it is properly sealed, it is resistant to fading, stains, mildew, and mold.

Quartzite is another natural stone that shares many of the characteristics of granite, It’s also a good choice for outdoor use.

While granite and quartzite require sealing periodically, they are relatively easy to maintain. Sealing frequency will vary depending on the porous nature of the stone, type of sealer used, and how much abuse the countertop gets. Generally you should expect to reseal at least once a year.

Some may recommend soapstone, metamorphic rock composed mostly of talc and other minerals  depending on where it is found. The presence of talc makes soapstone a soft yet dense rock giving it a powdery, soapy feel. However, granite and quartzite are harder than soapstone, so you won’t experience natural wearing over time. When you keep the countertop properly sealed, it should maintain its original color and strength for many years.

In addition to being able to withstand the weather and direct sunlight, granite and quartzite countertops provide excellent heat tolerance, which is great for outdoor cooking.

Porcelain is another option. It has a very low thermal expansion, so it will not distort or discolor when subjected to high temperatures. It is freeze/thaw and UV-stable, making it suitable for outdoor bar or kitchen countertops. However, porcelain is quite brittle and may shatter if struck by hard objects.

Quartz countertops contain resins that fade in sunlight and are not recommended for outdoor use

View the variety of colors of granite, quartzite and porcelain in our showroom and discuss your outdoor applications with our sales staff.