Before you get started, it is crucial to plan the layout of your outdoor kitchen so that you can get the most out of the space you have. Before you begin, consider what type of outlets or electrical connections you will need, as well as what types of appliances you will want to use. Here are some helpful tips to get you started. Listed below are some things to consider when preparing your outdoor kitchen. Then, read on to learn how to plan the best layout of your outdoor kitchen.
Preparation
Although you can use an outdoor kitchen all summer long, preparing it for the winter is essential. If you plan on grilling or smoking outdoors, be sure to turn off the gas lines when you’re not using them. You should also purchase a grill cover to prevent rusting from rain or snow. If you’re planning on using your outdoor kitchen for cooking, choose a synthetic material like rust-resistant stainless steel to avoid the damage of the elements.
Once you’ve decided to build your outdoor kitchen, you’ll need to get city permits and plan for it. There are many intangibles involved in planning, but you’ll want to take your time. To ensure that everything is legal, hire a professional to check the plumbing and electrical codes. Before purchasing an outdoor kitchen, get the necessary permits. You’ll be glad you did! This way, you won’t run into any unexpected costs or problems.
You’ll also need to decide on the type of cooking equipment you want to use. You can purchase gas grills, electric grills, or propane grills, among others. You can also find various ovens, stoves, and griddles. Decide if you’ll be cooking in the outdoor kitchen every day, or just some of the time. If so, make sure to plan a counter space and a sink.
Materials
Stainless steel is the preferred material for building an outdoor kitchen. Although concrete and wood have their advantages, steel has many advantages over these materials, including durability, longevity, and ease of maintenance. Furthermore, stainless steel can be powder coated for an almost maintenance-free finish. You can find a variety of options for the structure of your outdoor kitchen, including custom designs and materials that will match your home’s exterior. To get an idea of what materials will work best for your outdoor kitchen, read on!
Before you begin, you’ll need to create a rough sketch of the overall set-up you want. While the actual steps may vary, the materials and construction methods remain the same. For example, box-style outdoor kitchens allow for flexibility, allowing you to add cabinets, drawers, or even an outdoor refrigerator. Additionally, you can add other compartments like cabinets and decorative shelving if you so desire. After all, you’ll want to keep all of your kitchenware organized, so why not build a countertop as well?
Another important factor in selecting the materials for your outdoor kitchen is where you live. Your local climate will affect your choice of materials and the type of material you’ll use. For example, if you live in a cold climate, you’ll need to use materials that are resistant to freezing and/or cracking. On the other hand, if you live in a warm area, you may want to opt for materials that are resistant to coastal air.
Cost
While outdoor kitchens can be built for less than $1,000, the average price is between $40 and $130 per square foot. This figure assumes full construction and includes the patio, counters, storage, cooking element, and plumbing. If you are looking to save money, you can build a kitchen that is only partially finished or add elements such as a bar or stand-alone seating. The cost of building an outdoor kitchen is also dependent on the size and type of structure you plan to build.
Utility expenses can be high if you want to incorporate a full-size refrigerator. A perimeter kitchen is closer to the home and does not require the use of a full-sized refrigerator. Installing a perimeter kitchen can save you $300 to $1,500 compared to a satellite kitchen, which requires the burying of gas and electrical lines. New gas lines can cost upwards of $35 per linear foot. This expense is likely to be higher if you opt for a satellite kitchen.
Countertop materials can range from tile to concrete to teak. Countertop materials can cost between $10 and $150 per square foot, depending on the type and style of fixtures you choose. However, countertops are an integral part of an outdoor kitchen, so be sure to select a material that will not only complement your overall design, but also stand up to the harsh weather of your region. As with all major construction projects, countertops are a critical part of an outdoor kitchen, so you should spend at least $10 per square foot on this element.
Layout
There are many different types of outdoor kitchens and there are many different ways to layout them. You can create a U-shaped kitchen that incorporates a dining area or separate work areas. The most popular design of an outdoor kitchen includes under-counter storage and a wing dedicated to cooking and eating. The design of the kitchen itself can be separated into multiple work areas, separating the grill from food preparation and seating. You can also design the layout of the outdoor kitchen to maximize the amount of space you have.
Creating a good layout is as important as designing the interior of your home. A kitchen layout should be functional and comfortable and should complement the exterior design and landscaping. It doesn’t have to be identical to other aspects of your house. If you have a patio or deck, consider designing an outdoor kitchen that is separate from it. For more ideas, consider consulting a professional kitchen designer. Dawn Whyte of Michigan has designed many kitchens for people with unique tastes and needs.
Once you’ve determined how much space you have for your outdoor kitchen, consider its size. You can choose an L-shaped or U-shaped design, depending on the amount of space you have available. A U-shaped kitchen is more efficient and provides additional work space and counters. However, you should ensure that it has enough room for guests and cooks to move around. The right size is critical, and choosing the right layout is essential for the success of your outdoor kitchen.
Appliances
Investing in the right appliances for your outdoor kitchen is an important part of creating a great space for entertaining guests. A well-designed outdoor kitchen will be a place to entertain guests and have a fun game day event. Outdoor kitchen appliances and accessories should be safe, easy to clean, and have ample storage space for all of your essential cooking tools. Consider installing a kegerator or sturdy cabinets to store beer and other beverages.
When choosing the right appliances for your outdoor kitchen, make sure to consider the type of cooking you’ll be doing in the space. You’ll want to choose appliances that are UL-rated for outdoor use to ensure the safety of your appliances. Outdoor appliances are specifically designed to withstand dust and humidity. Most outdoor appliances are made from stainless steel. You can also consider installing a fire pit if you’re entertaining. And don’t forget the grill and the sink. A fire pit is a great addition to your outdoor kitchen.
When it comes to appliances, make sure you choose high-quality brands. Cheaply-made appliances usually have poor quality materials and are easy to break. Avoid purchasing appliances that have poor warranties and are prone to rust. You’ll spend a lot of money on these appliances and will soon be frustrated with them. By investing in high-quality appliances, you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor kitchen for many years to come.
Electrical connections
Before building your outdoor kitchen, make sure that you have all the necessary electrical connections in place. Your outdoor kitchen should have outlets that are powered by two20V. This will prevent electrical shocks and short circuits. You should also have GFCI outlets installed, so that you can reset them from the circuit panel. If you don’t know how to do this, call a professional electrician to get the job done for you.
Properly connecting your gas lines to your outdoor kitchen is essential. If you’re using a gas grill, you’ll need a gas line from the house. Make sure to measure the size of the gas line. Propane and gas lines have different BTUs. If you’re planning to install a fireplace or other outdoor cooking equipment, make sure to consult a licensed electrician for the installation. Also, make sure you have enough electricity to power everything that you want to use.
You should also consider installing ceiling fans. Standing over a grill can be extremely hot, especially in humid Indiana summers. A good electrician can help you plan for and wire ceiling fans, as well as lighting. A company like White’s Electrical will be able to handle all of your electrical needs in an outdoor kitchen, from design to installation and maintenance. Contact us today to learn more about their services. You’ll be glad you did!
Prefab options
If you are looking for an outdoor kitchen for your back yard, there are many prefab options available. These kitchens are built off-site in an industrial warehouse and offer little variance in design, materials, and appliances. Since these kitchens are mass produced, they are inexpensive to purchase and easy to install. In addition, these kitchens can be incredibly versatile, as you can choose between various countertop materials, grills, sinks, and more.
A prefabricated outdoor kitchen has all the appliances of a standard indoor kitchen, such as a built-in refrigerator and drawers. They can also be customized to fit your home and taste, reducing the amount of traffic inside during parties. Another advantage of prefabricated kitchens is that you can choose any size or shape you want based on your needs and style. This way, you can add value to your property and enjoy your outdoor kitchen as much as your guests. Plus, you can change your mind about the design if necessary.
If you’d like to install your outdoor kitchen without hiring a contractor, you can choose from prefabricated outdoor kitchen islands. These come with a variety of options, including appliance choices, grill colors, and materials for the base of the island. Some prefabricated outdoor kitchens are even available with tile or granite countertops. But you should check with a designer to be sure the prefab kitchen you choose is built in the right location.
