Outdoor Kitchen Countertops in Florida: Best Materials for Heat, Rain & Humidity
- Adam Narvaez
- Jun 10
- 4 min read
Florida’s weather is as bold as its lifestyle, hot sun, heavy rain, salty breezes, and high humidity are part of everyday life. That’s why building an outdoor kitchen in the Sunshine State isn’t just about looks, it’s about choosing materials that can handle the elements and still look stunning year after year.
At Southern StoneWorks, we specialize in stone countertops that are as tough as they are beautiful. If you’re planning an outdoor kitchen in Florida, here’s what you need to know to pick the right countertop material, one that won’t fade, crack, or disappoint.
Why Material Choice Matters in Florida
Outdoor countertops in Florida face constant sun exposure, seasonal downpours, and high humidity. Not all stones are up to the task. Some materials, while gorgeous indoors, can fade, crack, or even warp when used outside. That’s why it’s important to choose surfaces that are proven to handle the heat, and the rain.
We often get asked, “Can I use the same stone outdoors that I used in my kitchen?” The short answer: sometimes. But outdoor use demands tougher materials, and in Florida, that means countertops that are UV-resistant, non-porous, and weather-friendly.
Best Outdoor Countertop Materials for Florida
Let’s walk through the best choices for Florida’s climate, based on performance and beauty.
Granite is a top pick for outdoor kitchen countertops, and for good reason. It’s incredibly durable, resistant to heat, and holds up well against moisture and sun. With proper sealing, granite won’t fade or stain, even in Florida’s toughest months.
Clients love granite because it balances natural beauty with resilience. Plus, its wide range of colors and patterns makes it easy to match your outdoor aesthetic. When we install granite using our laser-guided technology, you get perfect cuts, seamless edges, and the most efficient use of material, often enough for a side table or bar top.
Quartzite is an increasingly popular option, and for outdoor spaces, it’s a powerhouse. This natural stone is harder than granite, UV-resistant, and exceptionally durable. Unlike quartz (which can discolor in direct sun), quartzite handles heat and light like a champ.
It’s slightly more premium in cost, but the performance justifies it. We recommend sealing quartzite to protect it from oils and spills, especially in outdoor kitchens where grilling and prep are frequent.
Concrete: Customizable and Tough
Concrete countertops can be cast into virtually any shape and color, making them ideal for unique outdoor kitchens. When properly sealed, they resist water, stains, and heat. That said, Florida’s humidity and temperature swings can cause concrete to expand and contract, so professional installation is key to avoiding cracks over time.
At Southern StoneWorks, we use industrial-grade sealers and reinforcement techniques to help concrete counters hold up beautifully outdoors.
Soapstone: Natural and Maintenance-Friendly
Soapstone may not be as flashy as granite, but it brings timeless charm and surprising resilience. It doesn’t require sealing, won’t stain, and resists heat naturally. In Florida, it’s best used in partially shaded outdoor areas, as its softer surface can scratch more easily than granite or quartzite.
Still, it’s a smart choice for homeowners looking for a natural, easy-care countertop with a classic look.
Stainless Steel: Sleek, Sanitary, and Sun-Safe
If you want a modern, professional vibe in your outdoor kitchen, stainless steel delivers. It doesn’t absorb heat, it’s easy to clean, and it’s completely non-porous. Plus, it’s one of the few materials that actually thrives in Florida’s salty coastal air.
Just be aware, it can get hot to the touch under direct sun, and surface scratches will happen over time. That said, the look is sharp, and it performs well in humid and wet conditions.
What Not to Use Outdoors in Florida
Some materials look good at first, but don’t hold up in Florida’s climate. Engineered quartz, for example, is great indoors but not ideal outside. Its resin-based binders can fade or discolor in the sun. Marble and bluestone are also risky, beautiful, yes, but too porous and prone to staining and weathering.
And while lava stone offers excellent durability and color options, it comes at a high price, making it more of a specialty choice than a practical one for most homeowners.
Our Advantage: Built for Florida, Built to Last
What sets Southern StoneWorks apart isn’t just our experience, it’s the technology we bring to every job. We’re the only fabricator in our service area using laser-guided cutting tools for absolute precision. That means your outdoor kitchen countertops fit perfectly, no matter how complex the layout.
Even better, our digital preview software lets you see your countertops in place, before we cut a single slab. And because our team is efficient and highly trained, we complete most installations in 10 days or less. That’s half the time of most competitors.
Final Thoughts: Invest in the Right Surface
Choosing outdoor kitchen countertops in Florida isn’t just about taste, it’s about trust. You need a material that performs and a team that delivers. We believe in doing things right the first time, and our outdoor installations are proof of that commitment.
From granite to quartzite, from stainless steel to concrete, we help you find the best surface for your space, your budget, and your lifestyle.
Ready to get started? Reach out today for a same-day estimate. We’ll help you turn your outdoor kitchen dream into a durable, stunning reality, because here at Southern StoneWorks, we don’t just cut stone. We shape memories.
