Outdoor kitchens have become a part of many modern Australian homes, typically situated in backyards, deck areas, or patios. Some have simple setups, whilst others come with more elaborate designs featuring several cooking appliances, sinks, refrigerators, and storage cabinets. But one essential component found in every outdoor kitchen – regardless of the style – is a tabletop.
Tabletops provide flat, stable, and durable surfaces for an outdoor kitchen. They can be used for preparing food, cooking and baking, and storing utensils and cookware. These tabletops can also house taps and sinks. Whether for aesthetic or functional purposes or both, outdoor kitchen tabletops should be made from a durable material, and that’s why concrete tabletops are the best choice. Here are some reasons why:
1. Durability
Concrete tabletops are durable, thanks to the inherent properties of the building material itself. Perfect for outdoor kitchens, these tabletops can withstand harsh weather conditions. Because concrete is resistant to moisture, extreme temperatures, and ultraviolet rays, the tabletop can last for several years.
Concrete is also known for being strong and rigid, allowing it to support heavy loads. It does not succumb easily to daily wear and tear, as well as temperature fluctuations. Since you will naturally be working with heat, concrete is the best material because of its heat-resistant properties. You can place grills and cooktops on top of your tabletop, and it will not warp. You don’t have to worry about heat and cold damage, which is why concrete is an ideal choice for outdoor kitchen tabletops.
Spills are often unavoidable when working in the kitchen. This is another reason why concrete tabletops are great for your outdoor kitchen. They can resist moisture, therefore reducing damage and the risk of mould and mildew. However, to truly gain this benefit, your countertops must be sealed and maintained properly.
2. Customisation with Design
There are many reasons why concrete is the premier choice when it comes to various applications in construction, design, and architecture. Customisability is one of them, meaning you can customise it according to your desired shape, size, and colour. You can create unique looks that match your outdoor space and personal style whilst also adding decorative elements from inlays to special finishes.
Concrete can be poured into differently shaped and sized moulds to create custom surfaces like your tabletops. You can also choose integral pigments, stains, or colour hardeners to personalise the shade. Pigments can be mixed directly into the concrete before pouring the material. Meanwhile, colour hardeners are typically applied after the concrete has been set, enabling a wide range of patterns and hues to be achieved.
With concrete tabletops, you can select the texture you want, as well. Many techniques are used to change the surface texture, such as exposed aggregate, stamping, broom finishing, and others. You can have smooth and polished finishes to rustic and rough.
Aside from the appearance, concrete tabletops can have varying thicknesses and reinforcements, including wire mesh and steel rebar. These modifications can further enhance an already solid and durable material.
3. Easy Maintenance
One of the biggest pulls of concrete tabletops is that they require minimal maintenance. Compared to other materials like wood or metal, concrete tabletops can be easily cleaned. You can simply wipe spills or use soap and water to remove more stubborn stains.
Sealing can help maintain the appearance of your concrete tabletops. However, you do not have to reseal them frequently to preserve their functionality. Usually, once every year or two can keep your tabletops from cracking.
If damaged, the affected area can generally be repaired through patching. In some cases, resurfacing may be required. Either of these techniques can help extend the life of the outdoor kitchen tabletop.
More Reasons Why Concrete Tabletops Are Excellent For Your Outdoor Kitchen
Aside from the three benefits above, concrete tabletops are also aesthetically appealing. They offer a modern, industrial touch that can complement any architectural style in your outdoor spaces. Their sleek appearance can elevate your outdoor kitchen, giving it a contemporary look that can easily be matched with other designs.
Concrete tabletops can be environmentally friendly, as well. Whilst we do not speak for all concrete suppliers, the material is often produced using locally-sourced materials. It comprises a mixture of cement, water, and aggregate, such as sand, gravel, or crushed stone, which can come from recycled items. At the same time, concrete can be crushed and reused for new construction projects, which aids in reducing waste and conserving resources. If locally sourced, transportation of the finished product is usually not required.
While the initial cost may be a bit higher compared to other materials, concrete tabletops are durable and require very little maintenance, making them more cost-effective in the long run.
If you’re looking for concrete tabletops, you’ve come to the right place. Here at CoastCrete, we supply unique decorative concrete perfect for your outdoor kitchen. Give us a call to get a free quote today!
