Zinc Countertops

Like copper and pewter, zinc countertops are another choice in soft metal for the kitchen.  Zinc was popular in the early 1900s for kitchen work areas and is starting to become a more common counter surface choice again among homeowners today.  Zinc is also used for backsplashes, tables, and cabinet accents. 

 

Many think that the color of zinc is like stainless steel.  However, zinc is not quite as shiny and has more of a pewter appearance.  With its silver and grayish tones, zinc brings an old world antique feel to a kitchen rather than the modern or contemporary look that is achieved with stainless.  Another difference between zinc and stainless that is worth pointing out - zinc is a softer metal and it has a lower melting temperature, so it is heat sensitive. Hot pots and pans should not be placed directly on a zinc counter due to the risk of distorting the surface. 

 

Since zinc is a soft metal, the edges can be shaped decoratively to give your countertop a custom look.  There are several options for finishes as well - polished, matte, or distressed.  While daily cleaning and care requires only mild soap and water, the routine care and polishing of the counter depends on the finish and look that you want your zinc countertop to have. 

 

Newly installed zinc is shiny. If you want to keep this highly polished look, regular polishing is important. A special zinc polish or cleaner should be applied to the entire counter surface every month to prevent oxidation of the metal.   

 

If you want the charming antique or country distressed look (as many homeowners do) no polishing is needed.  This look is achieved over time from the natural oxidation, also known as tarnish, that occurs with zinc. Just about anything that comes in contact with zinc will cause it to oxidize, including alkalies, acids, foods, drinks, and air. The once shiny metal will develop a blue or dark gray patina finish over time if it is not polished regularly to remove tarnish. It takes about one year for the oxidation patina to fully develop on a new zinc counter. For homeowners that are eager to achieve this look, there are various products available that will accelerate the oxidation or create different effects. 

 

Since zinc is a soft metal, it can scratch. If you zinc countertops are being maintained as shiny, polishing easily remove most of the surface scratches. If they are naturally oxidized for an antique look, scratches are usually not removed since they add to the country charm of the counters. To prevent large scratches, it is important to use a cutting board when using a knife on the countertop.