Most homeowners planning outdoor kitchens assume any countertop material that works inside will hold up outside. But Midwest conditions tell a different story. Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy moisture, and constant UV rays can turn the wrong outdoor kitchen countertops into a costly mistake.
To truly enjoy your outdoor space, you need materials built for extreme weather. At Cutting Edge Countertops, we handle over 15,000 projects yearly and can tell you for sure which options actually deliver long-term durability and design outdoors.
If you’re just starting to compare indoor vs outdoor surfaces, our guide on Countertops 101 gives a solid foundation on how different countertop materials behave in various settings.
What are the Factors to Consider for Outdoor Kitchen Countertops in the Midwest?
Outdoor living in the Midwest comes with weather extremes that quickly expose the strengths and weaknesses of any countertop. That’s why choosing outdoor kitchen countertops requires more than picking what looks good.
- Durability. Countertops in an outdoor setting need to withstand temperature fluctuations, freeze-thaw cycles, and direct UV exposure. A surface that cracks or fades under stress won’t last long in outdoor cooking spaces.
- Maintenance. Some countertop materials are porous and require regular sealing to resist stains, while non-porous surfaces demand less upkeep. This difference matters, especially if you don’t want annual maintenance to be part of your outdoor entertaining routine.
- Functionality. Outdoor cooking generates heat, grease, and plenty of mess. A suitable countertop material should be heat-resistant and easy to clean with mild soap and water. If a surface stains easily or can’t handle hot pans, it quickly loses its appeal.
- Aesthetics. Beyond performance, the countertop should complement your outdoor space. The variety of colors and textures available lets you tie the surface into the overall design, making the kitchen both practical and inviting.
Several materials check more than one of these boxes, which is why the next section focuses on the best options for outdoor kitchen countertops in the Midwest.
For homeowners planning a kitchen remodel, knowing which surfaces require sealing and which don’t can make budgeting easier. You can explore more in our piece on Quartz vs Granite Kitchen Countertops.
What are the Best Materials for Outdoor Kitchen Countertops in the Midwest?
With durability, maintenance, functionality, and aesthetics in mind, here are the best countertop materials for Midwest outdoor use. Each one has benefits and trade-offs you’ll want to weigh before deciding.
1. Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are a top choice for outdoor living because they’re durable and heat-resistant. In Midwest conditions, they stand up well to outdoor cooking and extreme temperatures. However, granite is porous and requires annual sealing to resist stains.
Granite has remained popular indoors and out for good reason. See why homeowners still love it in our blog on Top Reasons to Install Granite Bathroom Countertops.
2. Soapstone Countertops
Soapstone is dense and nearly non-porous, which means it won’t stain too easily, especially when properly sealed. Its natural heat resistance makes it ideal for outdoor cooking areas. The trade-off is that it’s softer than granite, so scratches may occur, though many homeowners find its dark, matte aesthetic worth the compromise.
3. Dekton / Ultra-Compact Surfaces Countertops
Dekton is engineered for outdoor use. It’s highly resistant to UV rays, extreme weather, and temperature fluctuations. Unlike porous natural stone, it doesn’t need regular sealing, and its non-porous nature makes it low-maintenance. If longevity with minimal upkeep is your priority, this material checks nearly every box.
If you’re interested in compact surfaces like Dekton, we’ve covered how these engineered materials perform in detail here: Compact Surfaces.
4. Porcelain Countertops
Porcelain tile and large-format porcelain slabs are gaining popularity as outdoor countertops. They’re non-porous, highly resistant to stains, and have low moisture absorption, which is critical in Midwest climates.
They’re also heat and UV-resistant, so they won’t fade in direct sunlight. Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, porcelain is one of the most versatile surfacing materials for outdoor use.
Want to see how porcelain compares with other modern materials? Check out our full breakdown: Quartz vs Porcelain Countertops.
Each of these options ties back to the core factors we discussed earlier—durability, maintenance, functionality, and aesthetics. The right choice depends on which factors matter most to your outdoor entertaining and overall design goals.
Final Note
In the Midwest, choosing the perfect outdoor kitchen countertop isn’t only about appearance. Extreme weather demands materials that are built to last.
To find the best countertop for your outdoor space, visit our showroom, see slabs in person, and opt for materials that truly elevate outdoor living. Choose the perfect fit today.
If an outdoor kitchen is part of a larger remodel, don’t miss our article on Ideas for Remodeling a Kitchen or Bathroom for inspiration that goes beyond countertops.
FAQs About Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Materials
1. What’s the best material for outdoor kitchen countertops in the Midwest?
The best material for outdoor use depends on your priorities. Granite, quartzite, soapstone, porcelain, and Dekton are all strong candidates. Each balances durability, aesthetics, and maintenance differently, so finding the best countertop means matching materials to your outdoor setting.
2. Do granite outdoor countertops need sealing?
Yes. Granite countertops are porous and benefit from proper sealing, especially outdoors in Midwest climates with freeze-thaw cycles. Proper sealing helps prevent stains, moisture absorption, and surface cracks, making granite a reliable choice for outdoor living when maintained consistently.
3. Can quartz countertops be used outdoors?
Quartz countertops are not recommended for outdoor use. Direct UV rays and temperature fluctuations can discolor or weaken the resin that binds crushed quartz. You should opt for natural stone or ultra-compact surfaces that withstand outdoor elements more effectively.
4. How do porcelain countertops hold up against UV rays?
Porcelain countertops perform exceptionally well outdoors. Their non-porous nature and high resistance to UV rays mean they won’t fade in direct sunlight. With low moisture absorption, porcelain tile and slabs are ideal for Midwest outdoor kitchens exposed to weather extremes.
5. What’s the easiest outdoor countertop material to clean?
Porcelain and soapstone are the easiest to maintain. Both are non-porous, resistant to stains, and clean up quickly with mild soap and water. Their low-maintenance nature makes them popular materials for busy outdoor cooking and entertaining spaces.