Outdoor kitchens can be used all season long, especially if they’re covered and you have a portable heater for the winter. If you’ve been dreaming of creating an outdoor kitchen, there’s never been a better time to start planning than fall. Your next decision may be: which material should you use for your outdoor kitchen countertops? We suggest soapstone. Here’s why.
1. Soapstone is Non-Porous
Soapstone is impermeable, which is an important factor when outfitting counters for an outdoor kitchen that may be exposed – at least partially – to the elements. Plus, it resists stains from food and beverages quite well. So no matter how many margaritas you spill on it, your soapstone counter will not soak up the liquid. Also, this material can withstand hot pots and pans being placed directly on it without scorching, so go ahead and set down the hot pot of steamed clams without worry.
2. Soapstone Has Great Thermal Properties
Because soapstone has excellent thermal properties, it can be used for much more than counters – it can be used as the surround for an outdoor pizza oven, grill or outdoor fireplace. That’s because it can resist excessive temperature variations ranging from very hot to very cold. Soapstone tends to warm up slowly, retaining that heat for long periods of time while remaining stable.
3. Durable and Long-Lasting
Soapstone lasts a long time and has a high level of durability. In fact, there are some 19th century soapstone sinks and wood-burning stoves that still function quite well. You just don’t find the longevity in other stones that you find with soapstone these days. This durability means it will never corrode even after being exposed to the weather for years. If you live near the coast, the salt air won’t negatively affect it either.
4. Easy Cleaning
You don’t need any special or expensive products to clean your soapstone counters, so it’s super easy to maintain. Its innate non-porosity means it won’t be vulnerable to environmental grime. Any dirt that does accumulate can easily be wiped away from the surface.
5. It’s Beautiful
Functionality is great and all, but it doesn’t hurt that soapstone is easy on the eyes. Its simplicity and exquisite appearance are perfect complements to nature, meaning it will blend in with any outdoor environment. You can put a modern twist on it by pairing your counters with stainless steel sinks and appliances, or you can let its natural and rustic vibes chill when offset by brick or wood accents.
If you’re looking to make a seamless connection between convenience and nature, you can’t go wrong with soapstone countertops for your outdoor kitchen.
Contact Granite Guy
Are you looking to know more about how our skilled Brookline stone installers can create an outdoor kitchen with soapstone counters? Just contact us today at 508-460-7900 and we can show you our many beautiful soapstone samples.
Soapstone slabs and remnants on display in our showroom in Southborough, Massachusetts