With summer here, there’s never been a better time to enjoy long, relaxing evenings outdoors with friends and family. Why not augment that enjoyment with an outdoor kitchen featuring a natural stone bar and counter top that makes prepping, entertaining, and cleaning super easy? If an outdoor kitchen sounds enticing, be sure to use a quality natural stone for beauty and longevity.
Partner with a natural stone installer in Ashland to make your dreams come true.
Check out these top benefits of a natural stone outdoor kitchen and bar.
Durability
Because an outdoor bar is exposed to the weather, it needs to have a high level of durability in order to withstand daily wear and tear as well as harsh weather. Natural stones such as quartzite and granite are good choices for outdoor bar tops, kitchen countertops and fireplace surrounds. That’s because they’re durable, hard and resistant to bacteria.
Weather Resistant
Granite and quartzite also do well when exposed to a wide range of temperatures because they both happen to be highly heat resistant. A man-made stone such as quartz, on the other hand, is comprised of resin binders that can warp or melt when faced with direct sunlight or extreme heat.
Also, porous stones can get damaged by moisture, particularly in the winter when the water infiltrates the stone and freezes/expands. If you do settle on a porous natural stone, you will need to seal it regularly.
Aesthetically Cohesive
Natural stone outdoor bars and countertops easily complement your landscaping and hardscaping features such as stone paths, garden walls, or water features such as fountains and ponds. Use natural stone as a cohesive, aesthetically-pleasing complement to your backyard. Plus, natural stones are eco-friendly and sustainably sourced without emitting toxic chemicals like manufactured products can.
Easy to Maintain
Natural stone is not only beautiful, but functional and easy to clean as well. This is what makes natural stone so well suited for outdoor kitchens. All you have to do to clean granite is wipe it down with a stone-safe cleaner. You can also add a sealer for further protection throughout the seasons.
Increases Home Value
Natural stone, no matter where it’s installed, boosts the overall value of your home because it’s both long-lasting and sustainable. In fact, the National Association of Realtors says that more than 50 percent of home buyers will pay more for homes with outdoor living spaces. The return on investment is even greater when natural stone is involved.
Contact Granite Guy
Look to our experienced granite installers in Dedham to outfit your outdoor kitchen. To get started, contact us today at 508-460-7900 for a free quote and consultation.