Commercial Kitchen Countertops

Commercial Stainless Steel Countertops: What You Need to Know

Commercial kitchen countertops must endure a great deal more wear and tear than residential countertops, so they're built with durability in mind. Most industrial kitchen countertops are made of stainless steel because alternative materials, such as wood or marble, can become damaged quickly and aren't as easy to clean. To ensure countertops remain sanitary and functional for a lifetime of high-volume use, stainless steel is the optimal choice for foodservice and hospitality venues of all types.

Common Questions About Commercial Kitchen Countertops

Why do restaurants use stainless steel counters?

Due to stainless steel's unique composition, it's one of the most rust-resistant metals available for kitchen equipment, pots and pans, and countertops. Unlike wooden butcher block countertops, stainless steel countertops don't scorch or burn if a hot pan is set down on them, and, because they're nonporous, they don't absorb microbes and residue during use. Commercial kitchen countertops made of stainless steel are durable, easy to clean, sanitary, and hold up against daily exposure to moisture, salt, and food acids without rusting or staining.

Do stainless steel restaurant countertops rust?

Although no steel is completely rust proof, stainless steel is the most rust-resistant option. Unlike galvanized, powder-coated, or vinyl-clad options, stainless steel remains rust resistant when scratched. The addition of chromium to stainless steel means that if the countertop's surface gets scratched or gouged, the exposed metal naturally forms a new protective layer of chromium oxide on its surface. This property makes stainless steel compatible with most cleaning solvents and provides durability in damp, hot, or abrasive environments.

Can you cut or chop on commercial stainless steel countertops?

Don't cut or chop on stainless steel. Using knives or other blades to slice and chop on stainless steel will dull the blades very quickly. Metal also is slippery compared to wooden, plastic, or rubber cutting surfaces, making it potentially dangerous to use a sharp blade on a stainless steel surface.

Can you put hot pans on stainless steel industrial kitchen countertops?

Stainless steel doesn't scorch or burn from contact with hot pots and pans, so it's safe to rest them on a commercial kitchen countertop made of stainless steel as you work. Frequent contact may lead to scratches or scuff marks, however.

What gauge stainless steel is best for commercial kitchen countertops?

When comparing countertops for your commercial kitchen, it's important to remember that thicker-gauge metal is more durable and resistant to dents. Commercial countertops may be made with 14-, 16-, or 18-gauge stainless steel. Although 16 gauge is the most common, 18-gauge steel is more susceptible to bending and warping than a thicker gauge, and 14-gauge steel often is too pricey for outfitting large industrial kitchens.