DIY outdoor kitchen projects are challenging even to the handymen. There’s so much involved, so much to do, so much to take into consideration that even a simple design may become overwhelming enough to have you running to the local outdoor kitchen contractors.
We are not here to discourage you. We just want to point out some considerations so that you won’t be disappointed in the way, so that you will complete the job and be proud of what you accomplished. Surely, there are plenty of solutions for DIY outdoor kitchensand backyard living Los Angeles ideas. But wouldn’t you feel more confident if you knew you left no stone unturned before you started? So, here are some useful DIY outdoor kitchen building tips.
DO second-guess the first outdoor kitchen plans
When you decide to build an outdoor kitchen, you have a certain image in mind. Don’t you? And so, you take a piece of paper, a pencil and become the designer of your backyard transformation. That’s splendid! So, what’ve you drawn so far? Blank page? The outdoor kitchen design didn’t come out exactly as you pictured it? It happens. And we are here to tell you this: even if you are happy with the initial outdoor kitchen plan, take another look.
What should you watch out for? Let’s pinpoint the basics.
- Enough outdoor kitchen countertop space
- Sufficient task lighting
- Outdoor appliances and a sink are included
- The outdoor kitchen is close to your home
- The outdoor cooking area is spacious
- There’s enough room for a dining area
There’s no point in cooking outdoors if there’s no space where you can sit and eat. This may as well be an outdoor kitchen island or bar, but leaving room for a table is also convenient. And don’t forget the golden kitchen “triangle” of the refrigerator, oven, and sink. One must be close to the other – they must form a triangle, for convenience alone.
Even if you have included all the above in your Los Angeles outdoor kitchen plan, there are still some considerations. There are still some things you must integrate in the plan so that you will not be disappointed later. Let’s see.
Measure your backyard with precision
Accurate measurement is key to successfully completing your DIY outdoor kitchen Los Angeles project. Mistakes you can make? If the landscape is huge, you may install the outdoor kitchen far away from the home and so, you’ll have no way of knowing what’s going on in the house. It won’t be convenient either. When you measure, you need to remember that you may also want a dining area, a sofa. When it comes to the actual outdoor kitchen, you need to consider the size and type of the appliances, the cabinets, the sink, etc.
Choose the outdoor kitchen materials with caution
Some custom outdoor kitchens last for a very long time, some don’t. And this doesn’t have only to do with whether you DIY or turn to a local outdoor kitchen builder. The catch is actually the materials. What you choose today will make a difference tomorrow. That’s major. You need to pick materials that can stand the test of time and resist the elements, like excellent quality stainless-steel and stone, brick, or concrete.
Take into consideration the local climate
So, what’s the weather like in your location? The nice LA weather may make you forget that rainfalls and chilly days and nights are also part of the equation and may keep you from enjoying your transformed backyard. You may consider covering the outdoor kitchen and dining area – perhaps, with a pergola!
Evaluate the outdoor kitchen building cost in detail
You most likely settle for a DIY outdoor kitchen job to save money otherwise spent on pro work. And while it’s very important you won’t think frugal when it comes to materials, you need to consider the actual cost of the whole project with great detail. Why pay a fortune and do it yourself too?
