Epoxy countertops have become a growing trend. Even the avid Diyers are jumping on board and choosing epoxy on natural stone or their counterparts. It is not a surprise, since it is an economical and creative way to improve your kitchen and bathrooms.
The results for epoxy cooking countertops are unique and incredible, and want to bring them outdoors. Click here for more information on epoxy countertops.
Can Epoxy countertops be used?
The outside world presents a hard environment for this material. Any item that came out outdoors is subject to the intense heat of the sun and other environmental factors. Can Epoxy Countertops be made?
Read this article before considering having an epoxy countertop for your outdoor kitchen.
What is an epoxy countertop?
In comparison with granite or quartz countertops, epoxy does not come in slab. You will buy it as a kit. This is because Epoxy is a refinability product. Apply this material as a coating to help revitalize or restore ancient and worn or outdoor countertops in your bathroom or kitchen. Like other resin-based countertary materials, Corian or cultivated marble, it is also a solid surface material.
Epoxy countertops are durable. That is why it is a popular choice for preparation. Apart from its durability, it is also resistant to scratches. It will take years before the surface becomes boring, since the epoxy can tolerate the cleaning agents without losing their brightness.
The epoxy finish is compatible with most countertop materials, including wood, metal, concrete, ceramic, laminate and formica.
It is only sometimes used in granite and marble because most of the homeowners do not want to cover these expensive materials. These materials are perceived to add value to the house, and cover them with epoxy or other materials will only decrease their value.
There are epoxy products that can recreate the aspect of granite or marble. And at a much lower cost, which is an advantage for the owner.
Pros and cons of using epoxy countertops.
There are many reasons why you may want to consider epoxy for your kitchen countertop. However, it also has its inconvenience that we can not simply ignore.
Pros.
Durability: Epoxy countertops are durable. When the epoxy resin hardens, it creates a solid and lasting surface that can last for years. It also has a lasting brightness, and you do not have to reapply the coating constantly. It can be kept well with other countertop materials as well. Epoxy is rarely broken or damaged easily.
High gloss finish: Another advantage of the epoxy countertop is its high gloss finish. This brightness has some time to disappear as well. Especially if it is applied regularly with mineral oil.
Unlimited designs: Epoxy offers an unlimited design potential. You can create different colors and patterns with this material.
Seamless: It is the only type of countertop that offers a perfect surface with pattern and continuous color.
Heat resistant: Unlike other countertops, you can place a hot dish or a pan on an epoxy countertop without ruining it. However, keep in mind that it is only heat resistant and not heat-proof.
Safe and non-toxic box: The types of epoxy used in the countertops are to food and non-toxic rooms.
Easy to clean: with epoxy countertops, you can use any cleaning product. It will not damage the surface. The soft and non-porous nature of the surface is also resistant to any bacterial or mold growth.
Cons.
Challenging to apply: One of the main drawbacks of choosing an epoxy countertop is that it is challenging and messy. It requires a uniform application to avoid lumps and air bubbles for a good finish. Epoxy has a fluid consistency that makes management difficult as well.
The consumption of time: the application of epoxy on the surface not only requires a lot of work, but also requires a lot of time. For this reason, we recommend you ask a professional to do it for you.
Inconsistent quality: An important problem that could be found in epoxy countertops is the inconsistency in the quality of the material. Not all products give the same results.
Staining: While the epoxy countertops are durable, they may find them prone to permanent spots. Spills can easily fight the surface if it is not cleaned correctly. Our advice is to clean it immediately after a spill.
Can Epoxy countertops be used?
With all the advantages that we have listed on epoxy countertops, it is enough to conclude that epoxy can serve well in its outdoor kitchen. It can support almost everything exposed, including heat, inclement weather and intensive use. In addition, it can cause the outdoor kitchen to look good for a long time with only minimal maintenance.
There are many uses for epoxy that are not in the tapas of the bars and countertops for outdoor kitchen. Since epoxy coatings can make unique and durable kitchen countertops, it is also ideal for outdoor cabinets and patios.
Apart from simple cleaning, you only need minimal maintenance. If the epoxy countertop is properly maintained, it can last up to 30 years.
If you are concerned about the yellowish countertops, choose a brand resistant to UV rays. It has a layer of protection against sunbeams.
Caring for the epoxy countertops.
Whether outdoor or indoors, you must maintain cleaning your epoxy countertops. Lucky for you, it’s easy to keep clean. There are only some things you need to consider.
You should avoid cleaning the countertop with abrasive products, as it can scratch and bore the surface. Meaning, you should not use abrasive cleaners, as well as pads, polishers and waxes.
To maintain the brightness of its epoxy surface, apply a small amount of mineral oil on the surface once a week or a month, depending on the use. It will keep the surface bright.
Clean spills immediately to avoid staining the epoxy countertop. If you can not clean it on time, remove the stain with a sodium bicarbonate paste or use a paint or acetone background. Please, do not use Bleach as you can create an own spot.
The use of epoxy countertops for your outdoor kitchen is a great idea. It is durable and is made to withstand the hard environment from the outside and add to the aesthetic appeal of its outdoor settings.
