Nothing stands up to heat, water, and stains better than metal.
Yes, it can scratch.
Yes, its appearance can be cold if notsurrounded by warm tones.
Credit: Werner Straube
Read on to learn more about how to install, maintain, clean, and budget for stainless-steel countertops.
For beginner DIYers, this process is best left to professionals.
Once finished, this substructure is attached to yourbase cabinetry or island.
Credit: John Granen
However, expensive metalwork, such as copper, should be left to an expert.
Types of Finishes
There are a number of stainless-steel finishes to choose from.
Brushed stainless steel, the most popular finish, has a directional “grain,” similar to wood.
Brushed finishes are also often found on kitchen appliances.
Mirror finishes are highly polished and reflective; this finish easily shows fingerprints.
Matte finishes, including antique matte, have a dull appearance, which helps hide fingerprints and water stains.
Stainless steel comes in a range of gauges from about 14 (about 1.4 mm thick) to 20.
The lower the gauge, the thicker, stronger, and more expensive the material.
With care, stainless-steel countertops can easily last 20 years or more.
If you’re worried about scratching, take a look at yourstainless-steel sink.
Metal can also be sealed to prevent scratching.
Toclean stainless-steel countertops, turn to a microfiber cloth.
Dampened with water, this basic cleaning tool can wipe away most fingerprints and water spots.
Remove messes andapply any specialty steel cleanersby wiping with the grain of the metal.
How much do stainless-steel countertops cost?
Metal countertops are not cheap, but they can be affordable if used as accents in the kitchen.
Prices start at about $60 per square foot.
Another option is to shop at restaurant supply stores.
Some homeowners have disassembled metal tables andused the top as countertops and islands.
Zinc, another popular option, has the look of pewter.
With a sealant, copper will retain its buttery brown hues, but expect some irregularity with color.
Left untreated, it, too, willpatina to its timeless verdigris finish.
It will scratch and show signs of wear.
