Can A Granite Countertop Withstand The Great Outdoors?

After spending the day in an office, it is time to breathe in some fresh air, relax, and enjoy a great meal. And, there is no better way to do that than to create a functional, durable, and beautiful outdoor kitchen. Whether under an awning, or out under the stars, expanding your living space to include a highly functional outdoor kitchen can bring you decades of enjoyment, and potentially increase the value of your home.

Of course, choosing the right appliances, outdoor tile, and countertop materials is essential. There seems to be conflicting information on granite countertops and their durability. On the one hand, we are told that granite is one of the hardest materials on earth, while on the other hand, we are told that it needs to be sealed to resist staining and to preserve its beauty.

This alone does not preclude it from being used outdoors. Yes, an outdoor granite countertop may require more frequent sealing, but it withstands freezing temperatures, prolonged direct sun, and rain, quite beautifully.

Bianco Antico Granite

In smaller areas, to add function and to make entertaining a breeze, create an outdoor bar area where you can serve up a refreshing cocktail or set out a buffet for your guests. Granite’s natural durability and stain resistance make it perfect for this type of application. Just remember to wipe up any acidic spills quickly and routinely do the water test to see if your granite countertop needs sealing.

In this scene, our beautiful Bianco Antico Granite counter is tucked nicely under a canopy, protecting it from some of the elements. This is wise if you live in an area with frequent hail storms. In these areas, you’d be wise to drape it in a heavy blanket during a storm to prevent chipping or cracking if the hailstones are large.

Delicatus White Granite

Granite counters do a great job of making your outdoor kitchen look right at home. A granite color with a dramatic pattern, like our Delicatus White Granite can blend the landscaping, hardscaping, and appliances together quite perfectly.

If you have the space, opt for sweeping countertops so you can do the food preparation outdoors with your family and friends so that you can limit the time you spend indoors on a beautiful day. Larger spans of countertops also give you the opportunity to add significant storage, a couple of refrigerators, or even a dishwasher designed for the outdoors!

Gray Mist Granite

In areas with lots of seasonal rain, you still want to be able to utilize your outdoor kitchen year-round. This means you need a roof over the cooking area to protect your outdoor cabinetry (and your chef!) from inclement weather.

After all, with an outdoor space this beautiful, and usable, you’ll want to use it as often as possible. Natural granite colors that combine cool whites and sharp blacks with hints of gold, like our Gray Mist Granite, can help to unify the design. Here the countertops feature this gorgeous natural stone countertop that will sparkle perfectly in the sunshine. The bar height is perfect for keeping the master griller company, and for playing host to a buffet.

Gray Nuevo Granite

Of course, if your design style tips the scale more towards clean contemporary, or relaxed modern, there are natural granite countertops that will complement your style. Sunken kitchens, like the one pictured here, are becoming more and more popular as they adapt beautifully to yards that have been terraced.

The sleek, clean lines of the appliances, furniture, landscaping, and cabinetry are the perfect place for the sophisticated look of our Gray Nuevo Granite. With dramatic veins, it is a spectacular design feature that can stand up to virtually everything Mother Nature can produce.

Granite is one of the hardest materials on earth, and that’s why so many homeowners and business owners choose it as their go-to surface for outdoor countertops, bar tops, and tabletops. Even if you live in areas with freezing temperatures, tons of direct sunlight, and other types of harsh weather, granite countertops can withstand the elements, and be functional and beautiful for decades to come.

Want to learn more about granite for your outdoor installations? We invite you to chat with us online, visit a nearby MSI showroom, or contact a local authorized MSI retailer for more information.

READ MORE ABOUT GRANITE COUNTERTOPS

Can You Use More Than One Granite Color For Your Kitchen Countertops?

Choosing the Right Edge For Your Granite Countertop

Color Crush On White & Gray Countertops

Creating the Perfect Pair with Your Backsplash And Granite Countertop