Guides
The best countertops for outdoor kitchens in Georgia
Georgia summers bring strong sun, heat, humidity and pollen, with the occasional freeze. Here's which stones stand up to it.
An outdoor kitchen faces conditions an indoor one never will: direct sun, summer heat, humidity, pollen season, rain and the occasional winter freeze. The right countertop will look great for years; the wrong one can fade, stain or crack.
Our top picks for outdoors
1. Dekton
Dekton is an ultra-compact surface made for exactly this. It's highly resistant to UV light, so colors don't fade in full sun. It handles heat from grills, resists stains and scratches, and stands up to freeze-thaw cycles. It's also very low maintenance: no sealing needed.
See our Dekton colors.
2. Granite
Granite has been a go-to outdoor stone for years. It's naturally heat resistant and very durable. Because it's natural stone, it should be sealed, and resealed from time to time to keep pollen, leaves and grease from staining. Tip: very dark granites can get hot to the touch in direct summer sun, so consider a lighter color or some shade for a bar top where people lean.
Browse our granite colors.
3. Quartzite
True quartzite is hard, heat resistant and holds up well outside, with beautiful natural veining. Like granite, it's sealed. Ask us which of our quartzites are best suited to outdoor use; some softer stones (dolomite) are better kept indoors.
What to avoid outside
- Quartz: the resin that binds it isn't made for direct sun. Over time UV light can fade or yellow it, so we don't recommend quartz for uncovered outdoor kitchens.
- Marble: soft and sensitive to acids, so rain, pollen and spills can etch and weather it quickly.
Other things to plan for
- Covered or open? A roof or pergola extends the life of any countertop and keeps the surface cooler.
- Finish: a leathered or honed finish hides water spots and pollen better than a high polish.
- Overhangs and supports: bar overhangs need proper supports. Your contractor installs any brackets before install day; we don't install support brackets.
- Grill and sink cutouts: have your grill, sink and faucet chosen before we template so we can cut the openings exactly.
- Plumbing and gas: we don't do plumbing, gas or electrical work, so line up your contractor for those connections.
See outdoor-ready stones in person
Many outdoor-friendly stones look different in sunlight than under showroom lights. When you visit, ask us to show you slabs near the warehouse doors in natural light. We'll help you pick a surface that suits your space and how much sun it gets.
Ready to see your stone in person?
Visit our Atlanta or Augusta showroom, or tell us about your project for a free estimate.
Book a showroom visitGet a free estimate