Adding an outdoor kitchen to a home’s backyard space is becoming increasingly popular for American homeowners. Ever since the invention of the Weber charcoal grill in the 1890s, Americans have enjoyed grilling and eating outside. More than 75% of households own an outdoor grill, so it makes perfect sense as to why people are expanding their cooking spaces.
Taking your kitchen beyond the confines of your home increases the functionality and overall presentation of your home. At Suburban Marble & Granite, we feature gorgeous and eye-catching countertop choices for your outdoor kitchen. Not only that, but we offer one of the most extensive selections of countertops in Montgomery County, including marble, granite, and quartz, and quartzite slabs. Once you commit to expanding your outdoor kitchen options, there are some factors you need to consider before deciding on the countertop material.
Elements to Consider
Climate
The outdoors present new challenges for kitchen construction. Since this kitchen space is going to be outside, it is crucial to make the area as low-maintenance as possible. You want a countertop material that can withstand the changing of the seasons and any sudden changes in the weather. Whether the conditions consist of harsh direct sunlight, frequent heavy rainfall, or the volatility of winter weather, you need to have your outdoor kitchen counters made of a material that endures through these difficult conditions.
The Sun’s Effect
Regardless of the strength and color of your countertop material, the sun will have an effect regardless. Over time, the sun will lighten the color of your countertop. The sun will also make dark-colored countertops hot to the touch, making dealing with hot food coming off the grill more difficult to manage.
You want your outdoor kitchen to accurately portray your style while keeping you and your guests comfortable. Finding a material that can age gracefully as it interacts with the sun’s rays can help create and maintain that comfortable atmosphere you want for your guests.
Volatile Weather
No matter what material you decide to use for your outdoor kitchen, you need to take steps to protect it from potentially volatile weather conditions. Rainy seasons, snowstorms, and extreme heat can all have adverse effects on the quality and durability of your outdoor countertops. Taking the right steps to protect your outdoor investment is critical for homeowners.
Go for Granite!
Granite is an extremely strong and completely natural material. Granite continues to be a favorite pick for kitchen counters because of its beautiful look, color variety and impeccable durability. These factors give granite an enduring appeal for homeowners looking to upgrade their indoor and outdoor kitchens. For those in Horsham looking for countertops, granite is the way to go.
Granite proves an excellent choice for outdoor kitchens because of its ability to withstand the harsh conditions of the outdoors. Granite offers homeowners a versatile option that other countertop materials lack for outdoor applications. Although it is the best option, granite can still be affected by the sun and climate and requires homeowners to take the right steps to protect their investment.
Protecting Granite From the Elements
With time and sun exposure, the color of the granite will fade, but don’t be alarmed! Resealing and restaining helps maintain the quality of the granite, assuring you a great looking outdoor kitchen. Additionally, during the winter months, you should take the proper precautions to protect your granite from the elements. Cover your outdoor countertops throughout the winter to help protect them from the extreme winter weather.
The elegant look of a granite countertop will enhance the look of your space. At Suburban Marble, Granite & Tile, we proudly provide granite kitchen countertops for homeowners in Montgomery County and beyond!
To schedule an appointment, learn more information about outdoor kitchens, or inquire about floor tiles for your Bucks County home, contact Suburban Marble, Granite & Tile today!
