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Using Stainless Steel on Your Countertops

Countertop-materials-Stainless-Steel

Courtesy of Elkay

Get that professional restaurant-kitchen look with this alloy steel that contains a dash of chromium to make it rust-resistant. Stainless steel is typically attached to plywood to provide strength and deaden its sound.

It's generally a wise choice for homeowners who crave a professional look, or for fans of neutral surfaces who find beige boring. While considering stainless steel a "neutral" may seem like a surprising choice, but the metallic hue blends well with most any color. The surface is also the choice of restaurants for a reason: Stainless steel is nonporous (which limits the growth of bacteria), doesn't chip or scratch and requires minimal maintenance.

Note: Though stainless steel shows scratches and fingerprints, new non-directional finishes limits their visibility.

 

Quick tip: Working with a small space? Stainless steel's reflective qualities multiply the effect of natural and artificial light, opening it up.
 

Pros

  • Can handle hot pots.
  • Won’t stain.
  • Easy to wipe clean.
  • Smooth and cool to the touch.
  • Flexible enough to make an integral sink.

 

Cons

  • Shows scratches and dulls knives.
  • Shows fingerprints, so it might not be the best choice if you have young children.
  • Can dent and be noisy if not attached to a strong base.
  • Difficult and costly fabrication.


Maintenance
Stainless steel is used in busy restaurants for a reason—a quick wipe with warm water and soap should do the trick. Be sure to avoid abrasive pads, as they'll scratch the surface.

Cost
About $85-$200 per square foot.