Kitchen Design
Think Zinc for Kitchen Countertops
Adaptability is the hallmark of zinc for kitchen countertops, combining the durability of metal with the natural look of stone
Old-fashioned and elegant, zinc countertops imbue a kitchen with warmth and dignity. A mainstay of Parisian bistros, oyster bars and butler's pantries, zinc often gets overlooked in favor of trendier stainless steel or tried and true stone. Yet this classic material adds a singular character that adapts, chameleon-like, to any kitchen style and setup. Read on to find out whether it's for you.
More: How to Remodel a Kitchen
More: How to Remodel a Kitchen
Malleability. Because zinc is relatively soft, it's easy to have the edges molded into interesting shapes and edge treatments. It can also be hammered or otherwise textured to add visual depth and interest.
Versatility. Zinc works well in any area of the kitchen, from islands and breakfast bars to prep surfaces.
Ease of maintenance. A quick swab-down with water and a gentle dish soap keeps zinc clean.
Versatility. Zinc works well in any area of the kitchen, from islands and breakfast bars to prep surfaces.
Ease of maintenance. A quick swab-down with water and a gentle dish soap keeps zinc clean.
The Cons of Zinc
Susceptibility to scratches. The same softness that makes zinc easy to fabricate also means that knives and cookware can scratch its surface. If you want to keep your countertop looking new, scratches and nicks will need to be buffed out periodically.
Susceptibility to heat. Prolonged exposure to a hot object, such as a pan straight from the stove, can leave an undesirable mark on a zinc countertop.
Susceptibility to scratches. The same softness that makes zinc easy to fabricate also means that knives and cookware can scratch its surface. If you want to keep your countertop looking new, scratches and nicks will need to be buffed out periodically.
Susceptibility to heat. Prolonged exposure to a hot object, such as a pan straight from the stove, can leave an undesirable mark on a zinc countertop.
Tricky installation. As with other metal countertops, zinc can be difficult for the average homeowner to install. It must be fastened to a substrate, and technical skill and experience are required to ensure a smooth surface and prevent seams from showing.
Cost. If you're on a tight budget, zinc can blow it to bits. Zinc starts at around $100 to $120 per square foot. If you're determined to incorporate it, try limiting it to a small section of counter space such as an island.
More:
Houzz guides to kitchen counters
How to Remodel a Kitchen
Cost. If you're on a tight budget, zinc can blow it to bits. Zinc starts at around $100 to $120 per square foot. If you're determined to incorporate it, try limiting it to a small section of counter space such as an island.
More:
Houzz guides to kitchen counters
How to Remodel a Kitchen
An old-fashioned patina. Zinc bears a dull, slightly mottled surface that has more in common with pewter than with chrome or stainless steel. It looks seasoned even when it's new, and it has an inherent warmth that many metals lack.
Zinc typically starts out pale gray and develops a slight blue to green cast as it darkens with time and use. Its natural tarnish can be slowed somewhat with a coat of beeswax now and then.
Antimicrobial properties. Zinc naturally resists mold, mildew and bacteria.
Stain resistance. Although zinc may react with certain substances over time, spills and splatters won't stain it in the way they might with a porous material such as marble or limestone.