Stone Countertops for Your Outdoor Kitchen: Dos & Dont’s
Summer heat always lingers here in Baton Rouge, but the feel of fall isn’t too far away. Just imagine: you’re hosting a dinner party, the temperatures have finally dropped below 85, and your friends are gathered around your beautiful outdoor kitchen. But wait – are those stains on your countertops? Is that warping from the heat? If you’ve chosen the wrong material for your outdoor stone countertop, this dream outdoor oasis could quickly turn into the stuff of nightmares.
When it comes to creating the perfect outdoor kitchen, your countertop choice will make or break the entire space. In Louisiana’s challenging climate – with our scorching summers, sudden thunderstorms, and high humidity – not all countertop materials are created equal. The key is understanding which stones will stand the test of time and which ones will leave you with regrets and costly replacements.
In an outdoor entertaining space, certain stone varieties will only last so long. When choosing stone countertops for your outdoor kitchen, your priority should always be durability first, and looks second. The good news? You can absolutely have both. You don’t have to sacrifice beauty for function. You just have to be thoughtful with your stone selections. Before you start building, make sure to consider these natural stone options for your outdoor kitchen.
Why Your Indoor Favorites Might Not Work Outside
While pretty much any type of stone will work beautifully in your climate-controlled indoor kitchen, your current favorite stone might be completely wrong for your outdoor space. Outdoor countertops must be hardy to deal with challenges that indoor surfaces simply don’t encounter like UV radiation, dynamic temperature swings, rain, wind, and constant exposure to the elements. Add in the grease from your outdoor grill, spilled drinks, and food prep mishaps, and you’ve got a perfect storm for countertop failure… if you choose the wrong material.
Stone Countertops That Are a NO:
Marble
A porous stone like marble might look absolutely stunning at first. And, we get it, those beautiful veins are hard to resist. But here’s the reality: marble is more prone to stains and scratches, leaving you with grease or wine splattered countertops that seem impossible to clean (because they are.)
In fact, while marble feels like a hard countertop material to the touch, it’s actually considered a soft stone compared to other outdoor kitchen countertops options. This means our weather will wear it down over time, causing etching from acidic substances like lemon juice or even rainwater. That’s definitely something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a one-time investment that will keep its shape and beauty for years to come.
The porosity issue is particularly problematic in outdoor settings where moisture can freeze and thaw, causing cracks and deterioration. Trust us, marble belongs in your elegant indoor spaces, not battling the hurricanes of outdoor life.
Quartz
Quartz remains one of the most popular kitchen countertop materials, especially among new construction homes in Baton Rouge. It’s gorgeous and performs beautifully indoors. However, quartz countertops aren’t the most practical choice for an outdoor stone countertop application. Why? Our high temperatures. When exposed to extreme heat (and we know Louisiana delivers plenty of that), quartz is likely to discolor and warp.
The issue lies in the resin binders used in engineered quartz. These polymers can’t handle prolonged UV exposure and high temperatures, leading to fading, warping, and even cracking. Since extreme heat is impossible to avoid during our intense summers (and much of our spring and fall as well), it’s definitely better to save this beautiful material for your indoor countertops where it can truly shine.
Stone Countertops That Are a GO:
Granite
Granite has earned its reputation as a popular, durable option both in the main kitchen and on your patio. When it comes to outdoor countertops, granite is a clear winner. It stands up remarkably well to the elements, and its porosity provides stain and odor resistance, so it’s less prone to damage from daily use. Plus, it won’t fade even after years of intense sun exposure.
Here’s a pro tip from our experience with stone outdoor kitchen installations: we recommend choosing a mid-range color granite. Why? Darker stones tend to absorb more heat, which can become quite hot to the touch after long days baking in the sun. Lighter colors, while beautiful, can show dirt and stains more easily in outdoor settings. Mid-range colors like warm grays, beiges, and medium browns offer the perfect balance of practicality and beauty.
Granite also offers an incredible variety in patterns and colors, so you’re sure to find something that complements your outdoor kitchen design perfectly. Plus, it’s been tested by time. We know granite outdoor kitchen countertops have been performing beautifully in challenging climates for decades.
Dekton
Dekton is a relatively new player in the outdoor countertops game, but it’s quickly becoming more common in Baton Rouge homes. Its ultra-compact surface is an extremely durable material, which explains its rising popularity for stone outdoor kitchen applications.
What makes Dekton special? It’s highly resistant to UV light and will not fade or degrade over time. Most countertops claim to be stain-resistant, but Dekton takes it a step further by boasting that it’s actually stain-proof. Those stubborn stains that make you panic like red wine, coffee, paint, rust, and even permanent marker – wipe right off without any special treatments or harsh chemicals.
Dekton can also handle extreme temperatures well. You can technically place hot pots and pans directly on the surface without worry, and it won’t crack from thermal shock. However, we typically recommend that you care for your countertops with hot plates where possible.
Concrete Countertop: An Additional Consideration
Concrete
While not technically stone, concrete deserves an honorable mention for outdoor applications. When properly sealed and maintained, concrete can provide a modern, industrial look that many homeowners love. However, it does require more maintenance than natural stone options.
Styling Your Stone Outdoor Kitchen
Once you’ve considered which material to use for your outdoor stone countertop, you can move on to the most exciting part: styling your outdoor kitchen to reflect your personal taste and lifestyle. This styling process includes everything from selecting color preferences that complement your home’s exterior to choosing finishing touches that make the space yours.
Design Tips for Your Outdoor Kitchen Countertops
Color Coordination
When selecting your outdoor stone countertop, consider how it will look with your outdoor kitchen appliances, cabinetry, and overall landscaping. Neutral tones tend to be timeless and work well with changing decor, while bold colors can make a statement but might limit your design flexibility over time. Think about what you want the backdrop of gatherings and holiday events to look like. Let that inspire your color selection.
Edge Profiles
Don’t overlook the importance of edge profiles in your outdoor kitchen design. While decorative edges can add elegance, simpler profiles like eased or straight edges are often more practical for outdoor use as they’re easier to clean and less likely to chip. When you visit our showrooms, our design consultants can provide you with tactile examples so you can see exactly what your options are.
Integration with Other Elements
Think about how your stone outdoor kitchen countertops will integrate with other elements like backsplashes, outdoor bars, and entertainment areas. Do you have a green thumb or will your garden be made of rocks and stone? Creating visual continuity throughout your outdoor space will make it feel cohesive, comfortable, and effortlessly stunning.
Planning Your Outdoor Kitchen Investment
Creating an outdoor kitchen with the right stone countertops is an investment in your home’s value and your family’s lifestyle. When done correctly, it can become the hearth of your home, a true meeting place for connection and entertainment, not to mention an additional boost to your property value.
Consider factors like:
- Your cooking and entertaining style
- The size and layout of your outdoor space
- Your budget for both initial installation and long-term maintenance
- How the outdoor kitchen will integrate with your existing outdoor living areas
Why Professional Installation Matters
While it might be tempting to tackle outdoor kitchen countertops as a DIY project, professional installation is crucial for several reasons. Outdoor installations require proper support structures, appropriate drainage considerations, and expert sealing to withstand weather exposure. Professional installers also understand local building codes and can ensure your outdoor stone countertop installation meets all the requirements.
Making Your Decision
At STONE, we’ve been helping Baton Rouge-area homeowners create stunning outdoor kitchens that stand the test of time and weather. Whether you’re leaning toward the timeless beauty of granite or the cutting-edge performance of Dekton, we’ll work with you to create an outdoor kitchen that you’ll love for years to come. Our team understands the unique challenges of Louisiana’s climate and can recommend the perfect outdoor stone countertop solution for your specific situation.
Ready to Elevate Your Outdoor Living Space?
To learn more about our products and services, call us at 225-663-6845 for our Jefferson location or 225-293-2225 for our Airline Highway store.
Let’ s elevate your outdoor kitchen.