Once you decide to build an outdoor kitchen, there’ll be a lot to do. You will immediately start planning, talking about designs, searching for outdoor kitchen contractors. It really is true that once you make up your mind and find the right company for the project, things will fall into place smoothly. The question is how to think things through before that! Let me explain.
If this is your very first outdoor kitchen, you most likely know little about such projects and what is involved to make them perfect. Well, yes, some important things – like finding the ideal location, deciding on the size and how you will arrange the whole outdoor cooking space are matters that will concern you later.
At this point, you need to consider matters that have to do with the project and are best to be talked through now rather than later. Ready?
Outdoor kitchen materials
Deciding on the material is essential. And not only for finding an outdoor kitchen builder with the required craftsmanship but also because the material will define the style. Do you want terracotta and stone for a rustic appearance? Wood boards for a sleek, contemporary outdoor kitchen design? Something classic, like brick? That’s one of the things you cannot undo once the construction is completed and since it affects your style, it’s worth considering.
And while all such materials are strong and thus, long lasting, some are more durable than others. Also, a fact you must know and consider before you choose the material.
But do you know what else? The material doesn’t only define the outdoor kitchen style. It defines the extent of maintenance required, too. Let’s see.
Maintenance
Some outdoor kitchen materials are easy to maintain, some are not. Overall, you need no-fuss materials that can easily take the hardship and withstand the elements. If not, the cabinets of the outdoor kitchen island or under the counter may warp or rot. The countertop may become damaged. Stucco, stone, concrete, and brick are all easy to maintain materials. Prefer stainless steel or composite materials for the cabinets.
Costs
Don’t you want to know the cost of the outdoor kitchen project? What you should know from the very start is that such projects don’t come cheap. But then again, the cost depends on various factors, like the size, the materials, the difficulty of the project, etc. What’s good to remember is that anything you add will increase the budget – some extra space, a deck, a pergola over the dining area, a more durable countertop, etc. The costs vary and since this is an outdoor project, it is often better to spend more now to keep the outdoor kitchen longer.
Convenience is the key word
The whole point of building an outdoor kitchen is to make your life easier, the backyard more active, the environment more inviting. Since you will most likely spend a considerable time outdoors, you need to consider details that will make your life easy. For example, lots of storage room. Also, the location. It’s best to have the outdoor kitchen built close to the home’s indoor kitchen. It’s also convenient to have enough dining space, an outdoor fire pit, a sink and a pergola. So, while you think such a project through, focus on convenience.
The hassle
It’s important to know that such projects involve some hassle. Naturally, the outdoor kitchen contractor takes over and does all the hard work – from day one to completion. But consider that they will have to extend electrical wires, plumbing, etc.
Permits
While such things are usually handled by the outdoor kitchen contractors, it’s vital for you to know that you will most likely need a permit.
Not all contractors are the same
It’s important to understand that such projects are not easy, involve many tasks, and must be done right. So, forget about building the outdoor kitchen alone. And then, remember that not all contractors are the same. It’s good to ask around, vet a few outdoor kitchen companies, and then decide. You most likely knew that, but it’s good to be reminded – especially when it comes to such a costly project. Isn’t it?
