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Products :
Countertops
:
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel
Photo courtesy of Elkay
What It Is
Get that professional restaurant-kitchen look with this alloy steel that
contains a dash of chromium to make it rust-resistant. Stainless steel
is typically attached to plywood to provide strength and deaden its
sound.
It's generally a wise choice for homeowners who crave a professional
look, or for fans of neutral surfaces who find beige boring. While
considering stainless steel a "neutral" may seem like a surprising
choice, but the metallic hue blends well with most any color. The
surface is also the choice of restaurants for a reason: Stainless steel
is nonporous (which limits the growth of bacteria), doesn't chip or
scratch and requires minimal maintenance.
Note: Though stainless steel shows scratches and fingerprints, new
non-directional finishes limits their visibility.
Pros
- Can handle hot pots.
- Won’t stain.
- Easy to wipe clean.
- Smooth and cool to the touch.
- Flexible enough to make an integral sink.
Cons
- Shows scratches and dulls knives.
- Shows fingerprints, so it might not be the best choice if you have
young children.
- Can dent and be noisy if not attached to a strong base.
- Difficult and costly fabrication.
Quick Tip
Working with a small space? Stainless steel's reflective qualities
multiply the effect of natural and artificial light, opening it up.
To Clean
Stainless steel is used in busy restaurants for a reason—a quick wipe with
warm water and soap should do the trick. Be sure to avoid abrasive pads,
as they'll scratch the surface.
Cost
About $85-$100 per square foot.
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