Stainless steel countertops are made from alloy steel, which contains iron mixed with other metals. It will include at least 11% chromium for rust resistance. There will usually be a plywood underlayer for additional strength and to deaden the sound. Most contemporary kitchens will have stainless steel countertops.
Stainless steel countertops are suitable for both residential and commercial kitchens. Its nonporous surface means bacteria cannot live on it and stains are easily removed. Make sure any stainless steel countertop you are considering contains a high level of chromium and nickel to prevent corrosion. A steel gauge of 16 or lower will also make it more resistant to dents. As steel gets thinner, the gauge numbers will rise. A thinner worktop will dent more easily.
Stainless steel is waterproof, resistant to heat exposure and lightweight. It is the favored material for use in food prep areas in hospitals and commercial outlets. It can be designed to eliminate seams through the use of integrated splashbacks and sinks.
However, one drawback of stainless steel is that there are not many design options available. It can be a noisy surface to work on and is easily dented or scratched. Fingerprints and smudging also cause problems, though a brushed finish can help eliminate this.
The use of stainless steel in a residential kitchen can result in an industrial look, and so is better suited to commercial use. However, it is becoming more popular in residential kitchens, mainly due to being easy to maintain, anti corrosive and non-porous.
Surface scratches are the most common damages to stainless steel countertops, but these are easy to buff out. They are easy to repair if damaged, though a brushed finish will make them even simpler to maintain.
MANUFACTURERS:
There are some stainless steel countertop manufacturers who operate nationally, but your best option would be to look locally for a fabricator.
PROS – Seamless, non porous and extremely heat resistant. Unique look and feel. Integrated sink and cove splash options.
CONS – Scratches and dents. Shows fingerprints and smudges easily. Color selection limited.
CARE & CLEANING – An all-purpose or glass cleaner will suffice, though specific stainless steel cleaners are available
WARRANTY – Dependent on the local fabricator.
COST – The average price will range anywhere between $80-$200 per square foot, but adding integrated sinks and blacksplashes will drive the price up further.