Granite is a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops, but it’s also incredibly popular for use outside the home. These are just a few of the many uses for adding granite to your outdoor space.

Scrap

A smart and inexpensive way to use granite is to use mismatched scrap pieces to decorate your garden. Most granite companies are happy to sell their scraps for less than they might charge for a countertop slab, and these “junk” pieces can create a treasure in your garden. If you can get your hands on a decent amount of stone, you may want to create a mosaic walkway or patio. If you prefer a more artistic use, stack your various shards into unique pillars for side tables or contemporary art décor.

For larger debris, try displaying potted plants and flowers on a granite display shelf. Really large pieces can be placed as monumental-style works of art, giving your garden an eye-catching yet natural aesthetic.

outdoor kitchen

Outdoor kitchens have been growing in popularity as home entertainment has become a national favorite. Naturally, no outdoor kitchen can exist without a countertop; after all, cooking and grilling is infinitely easier when you have a countertop to operate. Granite is the perfect choice for this application because it complements the outdoor landscape and is durable enough to withstand changes in weather.

Although granite is hard and can withstand severe abuse, care must be taken when using knives and other metals on the actual surface of granite. Metal can scratch the finish on countertops and make it easier for water and other debris to get into the stone.

Finished Granite Care

Since granite is semi-porous, there is a need to periodically apply a sealer to keep out water and debris. It’s also a good idea to clean it regularly with a combination of mild, phosphate-free liquid dish soap and water. Be sure to rinse well with water and wipe with a clean, dry cotton cloth. Using a stronger soap or leaving behind any mild soap residue will cause a buildup that will dull the granite’s lustrous shine.

Never use powder/abrasive cleaners, degreasers or bleaches on your stone as they can create scratches and scuffs in the finish. Also avoid cleaners that contain ammonia, vinegar or citric acid which can start a chemical reaction and wear down the finished coat.