Stainless Countertop
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Stainless steel kitchen countertops have come out of the professional kitchen and into the modern kitchen. Stainless steel fabricators have taken their designs to a new level. Any design in the surface is possible.
Stainless steel countertops should be made of 304 stainless and be 16 gauge or thicker. 12 and 14 gauge is used in commercial kitchens but is slowing becoming available to homeowners.
Any size and shape of countertop is possible since stainless steel is a rolled product. The seams should be welded, ground, and polished to match the rest of the counter. Soldered joints should not be used in food preparation areas.
Depending on the complexity and design of the stainless steel kitchen countertop, it can cost up to $200 per square foot. The average cost is $50 to $75 for a non-complex design. Not an inexpensive choice but sure to last for a long time.
A good way to keep the total cost of the countertop area down is to use a stainless steel countertop on an island or other small prep area. This is a good way to get some stainless into your kitchen without breaking the bank.
Cleaning should be done with warm water and soap, for general cleaning. Cleaners like bleach should be used sparingly and wiped off immediately afterward. Acidic foods like citrus can stain the surface if left for any length of time. If stains do occur scrubbing with a non-abrasive pad and mild detergent should remove them.
These stainless steel kitchen countertops are very resilient but will get imperfections. Scratches can be sanded out, but it is better left to a professional. Deep scratches and dents can be impossible to remove.
As with any kitchen mixing and matching of materials will help to keep the costs down. Mixing materials also adds more textures and interest to a room.
Stainless steel countertops come in a variety of edge styles and backsplash options, as well as finishes. These countertops should be installed by fabricators who are members of the NKBA to ensure they know how to work in a kitchen environment.
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