With fall weather finally making an appearance in Colorado, it’s time to start thinking about preparing our outdoor structures for the cold. For those of us with outdoor kitchens, this is an especially important time to take precautions. While many outdoor kitchens may be under overhangs, natural stone countertops need to be protected prior to harsh weather.
While some areas of the U.S. may not need the same preparation for seasonal changes as others, it’s a good idea to cover your bases just in case. Our local Colorado community knows all too well just how unpredictable weather patterns can be. Outdoor kitchens can take quite a beating during the seasons, so it’s important to make the necessary fixes now before it’s too late.
Seal Your Stone
One of the most effective ways to protect your natural stone countertops from inclement weather is to seal them. Sealing stone comes in many shapes and forms depending on the variety of stone and previous seals, if any. There are also a wide variety of seals to choose from based on your location, stone looks, and functional needs.
Sealing stone before weather hits is crucial, as wet and cold slabs have already been exposed and damage has been done. Sealing the stone allows for a barrier between the natural material and harsh weather. This can help to protect the coloring, durability, and surface of your slab. Sealing is one of the most, if not the most, important step to protecting your outdoor countertops during winter.
Cover Countertops As Needed
If you’ve sealed your countertops and are looking for additional ways to protect your slabs, covering them is a great option. A tarp, weather-proof blanket, or other resistant cover will do the trick. This can come in handy when snowfall comes and you’d like your slabs to have a layer of protection.
If this is the route you’d like to go, be sure that the material used to cover your slabs is water resistant and can put up with cold, unpredictable weather. It’s also a good idea to secure the edges of the material or place heavy objects on it to prevent blowing away in the wind.
Clean Regularly
Even after taking the necessary precautions to protect your natural stones from weather, you’ll want to maintain it as needed. Natural stones do best when they are regularly cleaned and maintained. This doesn’t have to be much, but a quick wipe down with soap and water can go a long way over the years.
Observe For Any Damages
Every few months, especially after a harsh storm, give your countertops a decent look-over. Check for any signs of damage and make repairs as needed. Even small cracks can get worse over time and lead to more serious damage in the future. Make adjustments now to save you the headache and money later on.
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