While stainless steel countertops were previously only a staple in professional kitchens, they’re become more and more popular in modern household kitchens. There are a lot of benefits to utilizing a stainless steel countertop in your home. Aesthetically, stainless steel is quite versatile and can fit right in with any color scheme. They also blend in seamlessly with the stainless steel appliances that are usually found in today’s modern kitchens. And here’s a bonus: if you have a small kitchen, the light reflectivity of the stainless steel surface will help make your kitchen look more welcoming.
In addition to complementing your design, stainless steel countertops are extraordinarily durable. Unlike some stone or glass countertops, you don’t have to worry about your stainless steel countertop cracking or chipping away. You also don’t have to worry about maintenance as stainless steel countertops do not require specific sealants or finishes. Because it is non-porous and requires no sealing, you also don’t have to worry about unsightly food stains. These countertops are also a great choice for the hygienically conscious cook, as stainless steel is a non-porous material that will not harbor germs or bacteria. It is also extremely easy to clean – just wipe with a damp cloth when necessary.
However, there are some disadvantages to using a stainless steel countertop. Like most countertop materials, stainless steel is susceptible to scratching so you must use a cutting board while cooking. While placing hot pots and pan on this kind of countertop won’t cause damage, it will quickly conduct heat which is especially dangerous if you have children around. It is also a very costly material, so if you’re on a tight budget this may not be a realistic option.
If the disadvantages aren’t much of a concern to you and you’re looking for an alternative to common stone countertops for your modern kitchen, consider using stainless steel. You can also mix and match materials, utilizing stainless steel only on your island and another material everywhere else. Either way, you really can’t go wrong.