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Stainless Steel Countertops
Restaurants have long recognized that stainless
steel makes the ideal countertop. It is durable
enough to with stand constant use, will not
stain or rust, is easy to keep clean and
sanitary, and can withstand the temperature
of hot pots. They are almost maintenance
free, as they only need cleaning with a mild
detergent. As more homeowners are choosing
stainless steel for their kitchen appliances,
these countertops help complete the popular
“restaurant look.” When selecting stainless
steel, it is important to buy those made
with a high grade chromium and nickel content.
Look for a thick gauge that will not dent
easily. Quality countertops are usually 304
stainless steel with a #4 brushed finish.
The length is often limited to 10 feet and
the width to 4 feet.
Here are some things to consider
when buying
stainless steel countertops:
- New stainless steel countertops will show
fingerprints and water spotting, especially
on highly polished surfaces, so it is best
to order a matte or satin finish. This problem
will diminish as the surface gets more wear
and develops a patina.
- Pay particular attention to the installation
of stainless steel countertops
to avoid denting
and unwanted noise. They should
be bonded
to plywood or particleboard.
- Sinks can be seamlessly incorporated into
stainless countertops either
by welding them
in or manufacturing them as
part of the countertop.
Wide stainless drain boards
on one or both
sides of the sink can also
be seamlessly
included.
- Acidic foods or juices can cause some discoloration
of stainless countertops if
they are not
promptly cleaned up, but these
stains can
easily be removed by rubbing
them out with
a kitchen cleaning pad.
If an entire kitchen of stainless steel countertops
seems too institutional and “cold” to you,
consider installing the stainless steel countertops
in a high use area and using a material such
as wooden butcher block in other parts of the kitchen. |
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