Buying an Outdoor Kitchen? Check Out These 6 Things First

Having an outdoor kitchen where you have everything you need neatly stored in clean spaces, so you don’t have to run to your indoor kitchen during meal preparations can bring great comfort and convenience.

An outdoor kitchen is not limited to the traditional charcoal and propane grills. Now you can design an outdoor kitchen with the latest appliances and sophisticated components that you can easily use with luxury.

If you are planning to upgrade your outdoor kitchen or begin building one for your patio, consider the following tips, so you can maximize your outdoor experience:

1. Customizing

There is no perfect outdoor kitchen for everybody. Each homeowner will always have their own design in mind. Most outdoor kitchens are built to complement the design of the house or structure where it belongs.

There are many available designs that you can browse through on the internet. Some may directly match or complement the design of your home. This can save you time and energy from looking for components that will complete your outdoor kitchen.

If you want to have a more meaningful experience in creating your outdoor kitchen, you can choose to build it from scratch.

This means you will need to hand-pick all components and appliances, including deciding on other elements such as:

• Size
• Shape
• Finish
• Material

2. Appliances

Look for top seller appliances for outdoor kitchens. It is important that you know the proper appliances to include in your outdoor kitchen since most will be exposed to the outdoor elements. All appliances should be outdoor-rated.

Select appliances that are top quality and that are purchased with a lifetime warranty. Other factors to consider when selecting appliances for your outdoor kitchen are flexibility, price, style, and functionality.

Another thing to consider when selecting appliances you will use is the space of your outdoor kitchen. If you have a wider area, you can choose appliances that are bigger.

The typical appliances and furnishings that make an outdoor kitchen a great space that you can enjoy all year round for cooking and socializing include:

• Barbecue grill (gas and/or charcoal)
• Enough storage space like an integrated bin cabinet
• Bar table and stools
• Outdoor fridge or cold storage
• Shelving
• Stainless steel flexible range
• Rotisserie spit
• Smoker
• Burner
• Warming drawer
• Pizza oven
• Sink
• Beverage center

3. Layout

Designing an outdoor kitchen can be overwhelming, especially if you are thinking about everything you should include like appliances, furnishings, and landscaping.

You can research different layout styles that fit the outdoor space where you will be building your outdoor kitchen.

Your layout can be any design from a simple setup to an extravagant one. You can also choose from installing simple appliances or having a fully functional kitchen outside your home.

Make sure that whatever the layout of your outdoor kitchen, it will be easy for you to clean and maintain it and that it will serve the purpose by which you are having it built.

You can ask these questions as you plan on the layout of your outdoor kitchen:

• How do you like to cook?
• What sort of entertainment will you be doing?
• How often are you going to use the kitchen?

4. Location

Another important aspect of planning an outdoor kitchen is your location. You will need to know the local city ordinances that specify regulations on combustible materials. You will also have to consider the location of your outdoor kitchen on your property.

This will impact the size and design of your outdoor kitchen. Before you think about the layout of your outdoor kitchen, you will need to determine where it will be installed on your property to make sure that it is accessible enough and safe, especially when the fire is involved in your cooking.

Be careful not to build it in an area where you will impede food traffic and other regular backyard activities. It is recommended likewise that you do not install it underneath a covered patio without a vent hood.

5. Delivery and Installation

Building an outdoor kitchen will involve the installation of utilities like electricity, gas, and water. An outdoor kitchen will not be fully functional without these important elements. So before you start building, all of these elements should be in place.

You will need to hire a professional to install hard lines for your electricity and gas. They should know how to properly install these lines from the source to prevent accidents and fires.

Also, call a professional to help you install water lines and a water heater under your sink if you need one.

When you choose to purchase “off-the-shelf” or “ready-to-finish” outdoor kitchens that are pre-assembled and will be delivered to your site, make sure that there is enough space for a forklift to set up your outdoor kitchen when it is delivered.

When you choose the customized version of the outdoor kitchen, prepare enough space where all materials and appliances will be set during the construction.

Read our guide about outdoor kitchen installation.

6. Safety and Care

The tips on safety and care include those for the quality of appliances that you will buy for outdoor use. For the finishing, you will need to choose non-combustible materials like Hardie Board and steel suds.

For safer grilling, you can install an insulated grill jacket, especially when your framing is made with combustible materials. Always check the safety features of each appliance that you will be placing in your outdoor kitchen.

Choose grills that have a built-in safety system to prevent gas buildup and fire. Also cover grills with a fitted, weatherproof cover after every use.

If you live near the coast, make sure that your outdoor appliances are made with stainless steel that will not corrode.

Before the winter season, you will need to pack up your outdoor kitchen appliances like your outdoor refrigerator. Prevent damage from the cold winter weather by turning off your gas and water supply and clearing your gas lines.

Create Your Own Outdoor Kitchen – Call Us at Big Easy Landscaping

Create wonderful memories as you spend a great time in your outdoor kitchen with family and friends.

These outdoor kitchen ideas will help you build an outdoor kitchen that will serve its purpose for many years down the road.

Get started with your own outdoor kitchen by calling us at Big Easy Landscaping.

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