What Are The Pros And Cons Of A Zinc Table Top?
Many homeowners are intrigued by zinc’s industrial yet fashionable look. Heavy-duty yet charming and adaptable, this “living metal” is a great option for counters and table tops. Still, there are some potential drawbacks to consider before installing a zinc table top.
Zinc table tops have a unique blue-gray patina that develops as they react with the environment. Some pros of zinc table tops are that they’re stylish, durable, and nonporous, and they have antibacterial and antifungal properties. A few cons of zinc table tops are that they’re expensive, with fluctuating prices, and they scratch and warp easily.
In this article, we’ll cover exactly what zinc table tops are, as well as the process of developing a patina. We’ll also go over all of the pros and cons of zinc table tops in-depth. Read on to learn more about this natural metal table top option and all of its characteristics!
Do You Need an Interior Decorator?
Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you.
What Is A Zinc Table Top?
As you may have guessed, a zinc table top is a table top made of zinc. Zinc is a natural mineral similar to copper. It’s both antifungal and antibacterial. It is a “living metal” that reacts to everything in its environment, especially acid, oil, and standing water.
As zinc table tops continue to react to their environment, they develop a patina. A patina is a thin layer or film on the surface of the metal. In the case of zinc, the patina appears blue-gray, giving the table top a unique look.
You can remove the patina of a zinc table top through polishing and buffing since it is only surface-level. It takes about a year for a zinc surface to develop a seamless patina. Zinc table tops are considered less sterile and cold-looking than other industrial-style options like stainless steel.
What Are The Pros Of Zinc Table Tops?
Let’s start by talking about all of the benefits and advantages of zinc table tops.
Hip, Trendy, And Cool
One of the biggest benefits of a zinc table top is that it adds a stylish and unique touch to your decor. If you want to make your kitchen stand out, a zinc table top is a great way to do it! Plus, the blue-gray patina of zinc can mesh well with many different interior design schemes.
Nonporous
As many homeowners know, cleaning the kitchen is a never-ending job. But with a zinc table top, that job becomes much simpler because the material is nonporous. That means all it takes is a quick wipe-down with soap and water, and you’re good to go!
Antibacterial and Antifungal
Not only is a zinc table top quick and easy to clean, but it also has antibacterial and antifungal properties. This makes it an ideal surface for food preparation, similar to copper. Those who are very averse to germs are sure to appreciate these properties of zinc.
Easy To Work With
Zinc is very easy to work with. It can be fabricated to be totally smooth, or it can even be molded to form decorative edges.
Durable
Zinc is a long-lasting and strong metal. A 0.8mm sheet of zinc can last for 80 years or more. It’s even used for roofing in some countries.
Develops Patina With Age
One of the most impressive things about a zinc table top is the way it reacts with its environment. Zinc is often called a “living metal,” and its surface changes color over time. It develops a blue-gray patina, which is a protective layer of oxidized metal.
Seconds Are Available
In some cases, you can purchase “seconds.” These are sheets of zinc that already have discolorations and stains.
By choosing seconds, you’ll save about 10% to 20% of the total cost. The process of developing a patina will also be considerably shorter.
Patina Can Be Removed
If you want to remove the patina and restart the process, that option is available to you. There are two main ways to do this: with vinegar or with lemon juice.
VinegarScrubbing the table top with a diluted vinegar solution should remove its patina. Start by mixing a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water. Then, use a spray bottle and cloth or brush to wipe the counter in a circular motion.
Lemon JuiceCut a lemon in half and move the lemon over your table top in a circular motion. Continue this process until you’ve covered the whole surface. You’ll likely need to use multiple lemons to take the patina off an entire table top or countertop. To finish off, use Windex or a damp cloth to wipe up the counter.
No Need To Polish
Zinc table tops have a natural brightness and don’t need to be polished. The only upkeep necessary is an occasional shine with beeswax.
What Are The Cons Of Zinc Table Tops?
Now that you know all of the positives of getting a zinc table top, let’s look at the negative points.
Does Not Appear Shiny And New
If you want your countertop to look shiny and new, zinc isn’t the right choice. To keep zinc from starting to develop a patina, you’d have to be extremely diligent. It would be nearly impossible to keep it shiny and free of any marks. Stainless steel would be a better and lower-maintenance choice.
Scratches And Warps Easily
Zinc is quite soft and can be easily scratched. It’s important to always use a cutting board on a zinc table top or countertop.
In addition, a zinc table top can warp if you set items down on it that are hotter than 300℉. A red-hot iron pot could actually melt the zinc completely! It’s important to always remember to use trivets and potholders with a zinc table top or countertop.
Expensive And Fluctuating Price
For a zinc table top or countertop, you’ll typically pay between $150 and $200 per square foot. Zinc is the most expensive countertop material, costing more than even stainless steel and granite! Its price also fluctuates, often dropping in the fall and winter months.
You should also note that zinc can be expensive to install. This is especially true if you want your table top to have a complex or unique shape. You can expect to add 10% to 15% to the installation charge in these cases.
Sometimes, countertop fabricators can overcharge for a zinc table top or countertop installation. For this reason, it’s wise to get multiple bids before committing to one.
Patina Takes Time To Develop
Zinc develops a patina gradually. For most table tops and countertops, it takes about a year for the patina to look completely seamless. At first, you’ll just see splotches of the countertop changing in color depending on what comes into contact with them.
Cannot Use Certain Cleaning Products
When cleaning a zinc countertop, it’s crucial to avoid harsh cleaners. Any products that contain bleach, ammonia, or citric acid shouldn’t be used. They will react strongly and leave marks.
Must Choose Specific Types Of Cabinetry
When you have a zinc table top or countertop that comes into contact with cabinetry, choose carefully. There are some woods and other materials that aren’t compatible with zinc. Wood with a pH of less than five, like chestnut and oak, shouldn’t be used.
Related Questions
Are zinc table tops safe?
Yes, zinc table tops are safe. Not only are they safe for food prep, but zinc has antibacterial and antifungal properties. In addition, it’s nonporous, making it especially easy to clean.
Are zinc table tops durable?
Yes, zinc table tops are strong and durable. In fact, zinc is sometimes used for roof construction, showing just how durable it is! A sheet of zinc that is 0.8mm thick can last for more than 80 years.
Does zinc table top stain?
Zinc table tops can stain. Although zinc naturally develops a patina over time, it can also be stained by various substances. Acidic liquids can damage the surface permanently.
Do You Need an Interior Decorator?
Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you.
Main Takeaways
- Zinc table tops are made of a “living metal” that reacts with its environment to develop a patina. A patina is a thin layer of oxidized metal. In zinc, it creates a blue-gray or pewter-like finish.
- The patina on a new zinc table top can take about a year to look complete and seamless. You can also use vinegar or lemon juice to remove the patina. If you’re looking for a table top that will remain shiny and new, stainless steel is a better option.
- Zinc is naturally nonporous and can be cleaned with gentle soap and water. Abrasive cleaners like bleach should always be avoided.
- When it comes to prices, zinc table tops are the most expensive, costing between $150 and $200 per square foot. Purchasing sheets of zinc in the fall and winter, when prices are lower, is recommended. You can also buy “seconds” and stick to simple table top shapes for additional savings.
With a lifelong passion for writing plus strong enthusiasm for home improvement and DIY projects, joining the team at Upgraded Home was an easy choice. Jessica Allen likes to share helpful information with current and aspiring homeowners. Aside from writing, Jessica loves doing yoga, playing the piano, and dabbling in graphic design.
More by Jessica Allen
![How To Reset A Whirlpool Cabrio Washer [In 5 Easy Steps!]](https://cdn-fastly.upgradedhome.com/media/2023/07/31/9076531/how-to-reset-a-whirlpool-cabrio-washer-in-5-easy-steps.jpg?size=350x220)
