The new range of solid benchtops for outdoor kitchens & BBQ areas
Written by
01 October 2024
•
3 min read
The sun in Australia is known to be the harshest in the world and the high UV index has similar effects on building materials as it does on our skin; it causes color changes, deterioration and cracking of pergolas, decks, outdoor furniture, outdoor shade cloths, beach umbrellas, and of course, outdoor BBQ areas.
When selecting outdoor bench tops, splashbacks and outdoor table tops, the material’s resistance to the weather is crucial for longevity. That’s why Eco Surfaces Australia has invested in testing their solid surface engineered benchtops for use in outdoor kitchens and al fresco barbecue areas.
Eco Surfaces’ founder John Rakic shares what to look for when choosing the right outdoor solid surfaces that will look great and last for years.
Weather resistance requirements for outdoor benchtops
The obvious solution to minimise direct UV and rain exposure is to cover the outdoor area with an awning, louvred roof or veranda. However, for homeowners who prefer to keep their outdoor living open to the air, there are now solid surface materials that will withstand the elements.
Eco Surfaces conducted independent accelerated weathering testing to give themselves and consumers confidence their engineered benchtops are suitable for outdoor applications.
“Accelerated weathering testing uses expensive laboratory equipment and simulates water and UV exposure in cycles that repeat,” shares John.
ASTM G 154 is probably the most prevalent test method use and most applicable for an external benchtop material, and Wayne says the testing looks at weathering after 1000 hours of exposure to UV and rain. After 1000 hours, one can see if the material is cracking, crazing, wearing, or becoming brittle.
“We all know UV causes things to fade and it is nye on impossible in Australia to have no fade; what we want is the whole surface to fade evenly,” says John.
In the elements, an engineered solid surface with a polished finish will not be as bright over time and will look more like a matte, semi-faded finish, and darker colours will become slightly lighter. Lighter colours aren’t as robust and Wayne recommends a light or dark grey colour.
“Whites have been known to yellow and we would not recommend their use, and anything with a binder or pigment in it will yellow over time.”
Eco Surfaces’s independent weathering test on their engineered stone demonstrates that the right colours and surf ace finish (they recommend matte) means outdoor benchtop, splashback and matching tables will last for years.
“We can recommend the right colours and matte finishes for you and provide a more definitive warranty and be open that some minor colour fade will occur but it will still look awesome after years outside.”
Cost of outdoor solid benchtops
Everyone has a budget and sometimes compromises need to made. While natural stone may be one of the most long-lasting outdoor materials to use, it’s also expensive and typically needs to be imported. In contrast, man-made or engineered stone is a cost-effective alternative, and
Eco Surfaces Australia has pioneered solid surfaces using recycled glass to comply with the ban on silica.
Another benefit of Eco Surfaces is they’re incredibly hard-wearing, says John, making them ideal for outdoor use.
“Things like stain resistance, scratch resistance, impact resistance, flatness, and hardness are important for a benchtop being specified and ultimately used in an outdoor BBQ environment.”
Eco Surfaces Australia makes and stocks benchtops in Australia which is ideal if you’re intending on having your outdoor kitchen ready for summer.
Explore solid surfaces for outdoor kitchens from Eco Surfaces Australia
