20 Tips for Choosing the Right Natural Stone for Your Outdoor BBQ

Aussies take their BBQs seriously—it’s more than a weekend tradition; it’s a way of life. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a family feast, a mate’s night, or a casual weekend cookout, your BBQ space needs to be built for durability, style, and Melbourne’s unpredictable weather. 

The right natural stone will not only enhance the look of your outdoor area but also withstand heat, spills, and constant use. Choose poorly, and you’ll be stuck with stains, cracks, and high maintenance. 

Here’s a practical guide to selecting the best natural stone that will keep your BBQ area functional and stunning for years to come.

1. Pick a Stone That Can Handle Melbourne’s Climate

Melbourne is infamous for its erratic weather, shifting from scorching sun to rain in a matter of hours. This constant change puts pressure on outdoor surfaces. Some stones crack under thermal expansion, while others become slippery when wet. Granite, bluestone, and quartzite are excellent choices because they handle temperature shifts well. 

Avoid softer stones like limestone, which deteriorate faster with exposure to rain and UV rays. If you want a stone that looks great year-round without constant repairs, pick one that’s suited for extreme conditions. A resilient stone will mean fewer headaches and more time enjoying your BBQ space with friends and family.

2. Choose a Heat-Resistant Surface

Your BBQ area will be exposed to two heat sources: direct sunlight and the heat from the grill. Some natural stones absorb too much heat, making them uncomfortable to touch on a summer day. Others may weaken or discolour with prolonged heat exposure. Granite and soapstone are the best choices since they resist heat and won’t crack under extreme temperatures. 

Avoid stones like marble and sandstone, which can scorch easily and fade over time. If you love entertaining outdoors, picking a heat-resistant stone ensures that your BBQ area remains cool, functional, and safe, even on the hottest days in Melbourne.

3. Ensure It’s Stain-Resistant

Let’s be honest—BBQs are messy. Between dripping marinades, splattered oil, and the occasional spilled beer, your stone will take a beating. The last thing you want is a BBQ bench that absorbs stains like a sponge. Porcelain, granite, and sealed bluestone are the best options since they resist stains and are easy to clean. 

On the other hand, limestone and unsealed travertine absorb liquids quickly, leading to stubborn stains that never quite disappear. If you don’t want to spend hours scrubbing after every BBQ session, choose a stone that naturally repels stains and requires minimal upkeep.

4. Choose a Durable Finish 

Aussie BBQs often involve a lot of activity—kids playing, guests mingling with drinks, and the occasional spill. 

While polished stone floors might look stylish, they can become slippery when wet. Instead, consider a textured, honed, or leathered finish for better durability and practicality, especially in high-traffic areas.

5. Think About Maintenance 

No one wants to spend their weekends scrubbing grease stains or resealing stone surfaces. Some stones require frequent sealing, while others are naturally resilient. If low maintenance is a priority, granite, porcelain, and sealed quartzite are your best bets, as they require little upkeep. Steer clear of sandstone and unsealed travertine unless you’re prepared to reseal them regularly. 

Melbourne’s weather can also accelerate wear and tear, making high-maintenance stones more of a hassle than they’re worth. Investing in a low-maintenance material ensures that your BBQ area stays pristine with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on what really matters—grilling up a feast.

6. Make Sure It’s Scratch-Resistant

Chopping boards are great, but let’s be real—sometimes food gets prepped directly on the stone. If your stone is too soft, it will scratch over time, ruining its polished look. Granite, quartzite, and porcelain are your best choices for scratch resistance. 

Avoid softer stones like marble or soapstone, which mark easily under knives, tools, and heavy objects. If you’re building a BBQ space that will see daily or weekly use, opt for a material that holds up against scratches, cuts, and general wear and tear. A scratch-resistant stone ensures your BBQ area maintains its sleek, professional appearance for years.

7. Choose a Stone That Matches Your Aesthetic

Your BBQ area should blend seamlessly with the rest of your outdoor space. Whether you prefer a modern, sleek look (opt for dark granite or bluestone) or a warm, rustic feel (travertine or sandstone), your stone choice plays a huge role in achieving your desired style. Also, lighter colours stay cooler underfoot, while darker stones absorb more heat. 

If your BBQ area is exposed to full sun, picking a lighter shade can make a noticeable difference in comfort. Beyond just function, the right stone will enhance your backyard’s overall visual appeal, making it a true extension of your home.

8. Consider Expansion and Contraction Due to Temperature Changes

Natural stone expands and contracts with temperature changes. In Melbourne, where summer days can hit 40°C and winter nights drop to single digits, this movement can cause weaker stones to crack. Choose a dense, non-porous stone like granite or bluestone, which resists warping. 

Additionally, ensure that your stone is properly installed with the right expansion joints to prevent long-term damage. A poorly chosen or installed stone can develop unsightly cracks, leading to costly repairs. By selecting a stone designed for thermal movement, you’ll extend the life of your BBQ space and avoid future frustrations.

9. Pick the Right Thickness for Longevity

Thickness matters when it comes to outdoor stone surfaces. A stone that’s too thin might look good initially, but over time, exposure to weight, heat, and weather will weaken it. 

If you choose a thinner stone, be prepared for possible cracking, chipping, or needing reinforcements. Investing in the right thickness ensures your BBQ area remains structurally sound and functional for years.

10. Ensure the Stone Is Fire-Resistant

Your BBQ space revolves around fire, so the last thing you want is a stone that discolours or weakens when exposed to high heat. Granite, soapstone, and bluestone are the top choices, as they withstand extreme temperatures without damage. 

Avoid stones with high calcium content, like limestone, as they can break down or discolour when exposed to intense heat. If you plan on having a built-in fire pit or pizza oven near your BBQ, prioritising a fire-resistant stone is crucial. It guarantees that your outdoor cooking space remains safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing for years to come.

11. Consider the Weight Load – Can Your BBQ Area Handle It?

Natural stone is heavy, and some materials can put immense pressure on your BBQ structure. If you’re using large slabs of granite or bluestone, ensure that your stones are supported by a strong base. A poorly reinforced BBQ station can lead to cracks, uneven surfaces, or even structural failure over time. 

If weight is a concern, porcelain slabs or engineered stone offer a lightweight alternative that still provides durability. Before finalising your stone choice, consult with a contractor to ensure your space can handle the load—especially if your BBQ area includes seating or built-in features.

12. Keep Hygiene in Mind

If you’re prepping food directly on your benchtop, choosing a non-porous, sealed stone is essential. Some stones, like unsealed sandstone and limestone, absorb bacteria and moisture, making them unhygienic for food preparation. Granite, sealed quartzite and porcelain are the best choices, as they don’t absorb liquids and are easy to wipe clean. 

If you love grilling seafood, marinated meats, or anything with oils and sauces, a non-porous surface will prevent bacteria buildup and lingering smells. Maintaining a food-safe stone ensures a cleaner, healthier cooking space, so you can BBQ with confidence every time.

13. Buy Locally for Better Quality and Availability

Melbourne has some of the best stone suppliers, and buying locally has major benefits. Not only will you save on shipping costs, but you’ll also get a stone that’s tested to withstand Australian conditions. Bluestone and granite from local quarries are designed for our climate, making them more durable than imported options. 

Plus, if you ever need replacements or additional slabs in the future, sourcing locally makes it easier to match colours and textures. Supporting local suppliers also means better after-sales service, so if there are any issues, you won’t be chasing overseas manufacturers for support.

14. Get the Right Sealing Done

Sealing protects natural stone from stains, moisture, and wear. Some stones, like bluestone and travertine, need regular sealing, while others, like porcelain and granite, require minimal maintenance. If you skip sealing, porous stones absorb grease, wine, and dirt, leading to permanent stains and damage. 

Melbourne’s fluctuating weather also causes unsealed stone to deteriorate faster. When choosing a supplier, ask about sealing recommendations—some stones need sealing once a year, while others might require a professional-grade sealant for better longevity. Investing in the right sealant upfront will keep your BBQ area looking new with minimal upkeep.

15. Choose a UV-resistant stone for Longevity

Outdoor stones face constant sun exposure, and some materials fade over time. If your BBQ area gets full sun, avoid marble and some sandstones, as they can lose their colour and develop an uneven, washed-out look. Granite, quartzite, and bluestone are excellent UV-resistant options, keeping their vibrancy for years. 

UV exposure can also weaken the structure of softer stones, causing cracking or warping. If your BBQ idea includes a pergola or shade sail, you have more flexibility with stone choices. But if it’s in an open space, choose a stone designed to handle direct sun exposure without losing its appeal.

16. Balance Budget vs. Longevity 

It’s tempting to go for cheaper stone to save on upfront costs, but a poor-quality choice can cost you more in repairs and replacements later. Some budget stones chip, stain, or fade within a few years, leaving you regretting your decision. 

Investing in a durable stone like granite, bluestone, or quartzite ensures your BBQ area stays in top condition for decades. If budget is tight, consider using premium stone for high-traffic areas and a more affordable option elsewhere. Quality materials save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance, replacements, and overall wear and tear.

17. Plan for Proper Drainage

Melbourne’s heavy rains can wreak havoc on outdoor surfaces. If your BBQ area doesn’t have proper drainage, water can pool, leading to stains, moss growth, and even structural damage over time. Choose a stone with a slight slope or install proper drainage channels to keep your space dry. 

Bluestone and granite handle water exposure well, but softer stones, like limestone and sandstone, can erode or develop algae if constantly exposed to moisture. Preventing water damage protects your investment, ensuring that your outdoor BBQ remains safe and looking great in all seasons.

18. Always Get Samples Before Making a Final Decision

Photos online or in showrooms don’t always reflect how a stone will look in your backyard. Lighting, angles, and weather conditions affect appearance, so always request samples before making a purchase. Place the sample in your BBQ area at different times of the day to see how it responds to sunlight, shadows, and rain. 

Some stones look great in artificial lighting but change completely in natural sunlight. Choosing a stone based on a showroom display alone can lead to surprises, so testing it in your actual space ensures you’ll be happy with the final result.

19. Get Professional Installation

Even the best natural stone won’t last if it’s poorly installed. Uneven surfaces, improper sealing, and weak support structures can cause cracking, shifting, and costly repairs. Hiring a professional stone mason ensures proper fitting, sealing, and alignment. 

A skilled installer also knows how to handle Melbourne’s weather challenges, preventing issues like water pooling, UV damage, or thermal expansion cracks. While DIY installation might seem like a budget-friendly option, one mistake can cost thousands in repairs. Paying for professional installation guarantees your BBQ area will be durable, visually stunning, and built to last.

20. Future-Proof Your BBQ Area 

Your BBQ setup should be built for longevity, not just short-term trends. Consider how your needs might change over time—will you want more seating, extra counter space, or a pizza oven? Choosing a versatile stone that works for different layouts can save you from expensive upgrades later. 

Granite, quartzite, and bluestone are long-term winners that maintain their strength, beauty, and practicality over decades. Investing in the right materials now means your outdoor space will age gracefully, withstand Melbourne’s climate, and stay functional for all your future BBQs.

Your Dream BBQ Space Starts Now

Your outdoor BBQ space is more than just a cooking area—it’s where great memories are made. Choosing the right natural stone ensures durability, style, and minimal maintenance in Melbourne’s unpredictable weather. 

A smart choice now means fewer repairs and more time enjoying BBQs with friends and family. Ready to build the perfect outdoor space? Start with the right stone, and your BBQ area will be built to last for years!