It etches, stains, and scratches big time. Not at all suitable for counters or anything but headstones to get dissolved by acid rain.

Fixer, I have heard what Sophie shared from other professionals as well. We are also planning an outdoor BBQ and have been frustrated with the conflicting info. We live in the Phx metro area and have additional limitations of extreme heat. I don't want to deal with the grout that tile requires, ugh. I will keep an eye on this post and will hopefully learn along with you!

Sorry, slightly off topic. Sophie, i had a neighbor who had a like 4x6 marble slab like 2" thick. She laid this on top of a 3' round tree stump, maybe a little larger. with time, the marble actually began to bend over the stump. Can this happen with these other stones? i just never thought it would happen.

Now I'm even more confused! I was told that a limited number of granites could survive even a little direct sunlight. Due to the resins/fillers popping out resulting from fluctuations in temps. I was told soapstone scratches easily but also is easiest to erase marks. Much pricier! Sophie? Anyone have input?

Most real granite can deal just fine. Its rock.

@fixeruppergirl I think you are thinking of Quartz, that has polymer resins mixed with about 90% quartz so its basically fake color can be defected by sunlight. We are a fabricator company and we store all our Granites, Marbles and Quartz outside and never had damage. However, some people swear there is discoloration over years. Soapstone and Granite are the ultimate countertops that we know thus far for exterior since they are natural, hard, less porous making it more durable. Other natural stones such as marble, travertine and limestone can be used outdoors but they have more problems being porous and soft with water and freezing damage but if you are set on one, just look into products to seal and protect, there are a million out there.