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Think Zinc for Kitchen Countertops
Adaptability is the hallmark of zinc for kitchen countertops, combining the durability of metal with the natural look of stone
Houzz Contributor. Fresh out of journalism school, I fell into decorating media and immediately discovered a new passion. An Atlanta native, I spent several years as an editor for Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles magazine before making the leap to national publications and websites such as Houzz, Better Homes and Gardens and Southern Accents. I live in Birmingham, Alabama, with my husband and son, who’ve gotten used to coming home and finding the furniture rearranged. When I'm not dragging case goods across the floor, I enjoy good food and wine, college football, music of all kinds, and traveling.
Houzz Contributor. Fresh out of journalism school, I fell into decorating... More »
Old-fashioned and elegant, zinc countertops imbue a kitchen with warmth and dignity. A mainstay of Parisian bistros, oyster bars and butler's pantries, zinc often gets overlooked in favor of trendier stainless steel or tried and true stone. Yet this classic material adds a singular character that adapts, chameleon-like, to any kitchen style and setup. Read on to find out whether it's for you.
More: How to Remodel a Kitchen
More: How to Remodel a Kitchen
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The Pros of Zinc
An old-fashioned patina. Zinc bears a dull, slightly mottled surface that has more in common with pewter than with chrome or stainless steel. It looks seasoned even when it's new, and it has an inherent warmth that many metals lack.
Zinc typically starts out pale gray and develops a slight blue to green cast as it darkens with time and use. Its natural tarnish can be slowed somewhat with a coat of beeswax now and then.
Antimicrobial properties. Zinc naturally resists mold, mildew and bacteria.
Stain resistance. Although zinc may react with certain substances over time, spills and splatters won't stain it in the way they might with a porous material such as marble or limestone.
An old-fashioned patina. Zinc bears a dull, slightly mottled surface that has more in common with pewter than with chrome or stainless steel. It looks seasoned even when it's new, and it has an inherent warmth that many metals lack.
Zinc typically starts out pale gray and develops a slight blue to green cast as it darkens with time and use. Its natural tarnish can be slowed somewhat with a coat of beeswax now and then.
Antimicrobial properties. Zinc naturally resists mold, mildew and bacteria.
Stain resistance. Although zinc may react with certain substances over time, spills and splatters won't stain it in the way they might with a porous material such as marble or limestone.
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| Malleability. Because zinc is relatively soft, it's easy to have the edges molded into interesting shapes and edge treatments. It can also be hammered or otherwise textured to add visual depth and interest. Versatility. Zinc works well in any area of the kitchen, from islands and breakfast bars to prep surfaces. Ease of maintenance. A quick swab-down with water and a gentle dish soap keeps zinc clean. |
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The Cons of Zinc
Susceptibility to scratches. The same softness that makes zinc easy to fabricate also means that knives and cookware can scratch its surface. If you want to keep your countertop looking new, scratches and nicks will need to be buffed out periodically.
Susceptibility to heat. Prolonged exposure to a hot object, such as a pan straight from the stove, can leave an undesirable mark on a zinc countertop.
Susceptibility to scratches. The same softness that makes zinc easy to fabricate also means that knives and cookware can scratch its surface. If you want to keep your countertop looking new, scratches and nicks will need to be buffed out periodically.
Susceptibility to heat. Prolonged exposure to a hot object, such as a pan straight from the stove, can leave an undesirable mark on a zinc countertop.
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by ARCHIA HOMES
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| Tricky installation. As with other metal countertops, zinc can be difficult for the average homeowner to install. It must be fastened to a substrate, and technical skill and experience are required to ensure a smooth surface and prevent seams from showing. Cost. If you're on a tight budget, zinc can blow it to bits. Zinc starts at around $100 to $120 per square foot. If you're determined to incorporate it, try limiting it to a small section of counter space such as an island. More: Houzz guides to kitchen counters How to Remodel a Kitchen |
Ideabook updated on July 15, 2012.
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Doing it yourself virtually guaranteed a more 'rustic' look, but it is doable, zinc is quite soft, and there are good tutorials on youtube.
for your article posting! I quite enjoyed reading it, you are a great author.
I will be sure to bookmark your ideabooks and definitely will come back from now on.
I want to encourage that you continue your great job, have a nice day!
Great article- I would consider using it!
Its the highlight of my kitchen and I highly recommend it!
It can have a raw or patinated finish. It is often used in a Country or Rustic interior scheme.
It is anti microbial
We make and ship such countesr and island tops regularly.
www.Brookscustom.com
Thanks