Kitchen Counters: Stainless Steel, the Chefs' Choice
Professional-grade strength and shining beauty unite in classic stainless steel countertops for the kitchen
Stainless steel countertops are brains, beauty and brawn rolled into one hardworking surface. This professional chef–worthy surface stands up to abuse yet spiffs up easily to a glamorous showstopping shine. Are stainless steel counters right for you? This will help you find out.
Compare: More kitchen counter materials
Compare: More kitchen counter materials
Advantages: Stainless steel offers top-notch durability that stands up to even commercial kitchens and their rigorous standards for cleanliness. It is nonporous and nonstaining, resistant to heat and easy to clean. It also has a life expectancy of nearly a century. Design purists will enjoy its potential for integral sinks and backsplashes.
Disadvantages: Perfectionists, take note — while cleaning it is a breeze, keeping stainless steel free of fingerprints and watermarks can be a chore. And the material is susceptible to scratches and dents, so keep that cutting board close.
Disadvantages: Perfectionists, take note — while cleaning it is a breeze, keeping stainless steel free of fingerprints and watermarks can be a chore. And the material is susceptible to scratches and dents, so keep that cutting board close.
Sustainability: Most stainless steel is made of 60 percent recycled content and, because it can be recycled again and again, has an extended useful life. Be sure to seek out American-made stainless steel with a high percentage of recycled content. For healthy indoor air quality, the glues should have no or low VOCs, and the plywood or fiberboard should be labeled "no added urea formaldehyde."
Maintenance: Stainless steel can be cleaned with a mild detergent, or use baking soda or vinegar diluted with water.
Special consideration: A nondirectional finish minimizes the appearance of fingerprints and water marks.
More kitchen counter materials
Special consideration: A nondirectional finish minimizes the appearance of fingerprints and water marks.
More kitchen counter materials
Countertops are typically fabricated from 14- or 16-gauge material, which is then glued to a substrate of plywood or medium-density fiberboard (MDF) to form a rigid surface. Type 304 stainless steel is commonly used, due to its higher chromium content (and therefore corrosion resistance) and ability to be welded without affecting its durability or strength. Most common is a number 4 brushed finish, but stainless steel is also available in satin (smooth), antique matte and any number of specialty patterns.
Cost: $80 to $90 per square foot installed.