Building an outdoor kitchen is a wonderful addition to your outdoor living. Understanding what should go into your outdoor kitchen is the most important step in actually making the change. Here are a few questions you should consider when thinking about an outdoor kitchen.
What is an outdoor kitchen?
An outdoor kitchen should be exactly what you would expect in an indoor kitchen, just with no roof or walls. However, the appliances and counters will be what defines the edge of the outdoor kitchen. Because there is no ceiling to protect your kitchen from the elements, you’ll need to make sure your materials are strong enough to withstand the weather. Your kitchen setup should be for entertaining, with open space for multiple people to enjoy your outdoor space.
How much will an outdoor kitchen cost?
If you keep your outdoor kitchen simple then your cost will be much lower. For example, a 6-foot long counter with a grill will cost only about $3000. However, if you spend extra getting high-end appliances and a patio then you may find a price tag closer to $15,000.
How do you save money on your outdoor kitchen?
Know what you are going to be using the kitchen for. If you intend to mainly use the space for grilling with friends then just go with a grill and counter space. Putting in more than you need is the number one reason your cost will rise. You can also save money by considering your building materials beforehand. For example, paying for maintenance on countertops later on will be more costly than ensuring that you use stain resistant materials now. Your materials will help to determine the lifespan of your kitchen, so choose wisely.
You can also save money by ensuring that your kitchen will be fire safe as well as able to handle rain and other effects from the climate. Having rainwater collect in your outdoor kitchen is a sure way to reduce the life of your cabinets and counters, so be proactive in dealing with the problem. Additionally, provide some form of slight covering that will protect the kitchen from direct sun exposure. Tresses can be a good option in this case, and they will allow you to decorate your kitchen in interesting ways.
What should you spend more money on?
Your main cooking appliance should be a large part of your outdoor kitchen budget. After all, without being able to cook, your kitchen isn’t much of a kitchen. Don’t be afraid of getting good appliances for your space, especially if that money is going towards greater durability. Additionally, spend money on ensuring your counters and cabinets are made with durable materials. Using durable materials will make your kitchen much cheaper in the long run since you will not need to pay for repairs or constant maintenance.
