5 Things to Consider Before Building That Gorgeous Outdoor Kitchen

You’ve seen them in magazines or perhaps in your neighbor’s yard—a gorgeous outdoor kitchen with high-end countertops, stone accents, and a fire pit to top it all off. Patio kitchens can be an amazing addition to any home, especially if you cook home meals or enjoy the wind through your hair from time to time. Homes with kids and pets may find additional value in spending more time outside, too. It’s important to note that not everyone will find value in an outdoor kitchen, and installing them can cost you a lot of time, work, and money that you may not be prepared for. To make the best decision for your home and lifestyle, you’ll want to consider the most crucial factors before taking the plunge. If you hate cooking or have a tiny yard, you may want to pay extra attention.

Deck Space and Layout

Depending on the type of kitchen you want, you’re going to need appropriate deck space for the entire layout. You want to include not just the kitchen and its features, but also a place to entertain and enjoy meals, too. If you have a pool or other amenities in your yard, you’ll need to work with or around these features to allow them to coexist stylishly and functionally. A deck is recommended for outdoor kitchens, as you’ll need a solid and level foundation for them. Consider working with a custom deck builder to allow you to create the kitchen of your dreams. Working with a contractor can cost more, but you won’t have to worry about a lack of space or oddly positioned layouts.

The Finances

Outdoor kitchens are expensive! A grill or smoker alone can set you back thousands of dollars with high-end models. Of course, there are outdoor kitchen appliances at all price ranges, but the more you spend, the more you're paying for durability and exclusive features. You'll also need to consider any deck or patio installation, counters and cabinets, and furniture. Budget for a few thousand dollars in expenses to cover all bases. If you're not prepared for an investment like that, you're going to have to take some time to prepare.

Your Current Habits and Lifestyle

An outdoor kitchen is a great feature for people who love the outdoors or want to spend more time outside in a controlled space like a backyard. If you have significant allergies with outside air, you will need to take that into consideration. You won’t be able to use an outdoor kitchen if you have an allergy attack every time you step outdoors! You'll also need to come equipped with some desire to cook or prepare drinks. You don’t need to be an expert chef—you don’t even need to be an average chef, you or your household members just need to want to learn. If you see yourself desiring and using an outdoor kitchen for any reason, go for it! If you think you’re not the right person for it, you may want to go with your gut before investing a ton of money into it.

Plumbing, Gas, and Electrical

Kitchen appliances will need electrical and plumbing hookups at a minimum, as they use electricity and water. You may even need a gas hookup. While most outdoor kitchens are easily connected to these utilities, you’ll have to know what you’re doing. Consult with professional plumbers and electricians to determine if there are any issues with the placement or layout of your future patio kitchen. Get cost estimates from multiple professionals beforehand. These connections will need to be up to code; professionals can help you with this. If you don’t adhere to local laws and regulations, you’ll look at more than just legal issues—you could cause serious injury or property damage to household members.

Climate and Weather

If your home is in an area that constantly floods or freezes over, an outdoor kitchen may not be usable all the time. There’s nothing wrong with using an outdoor kitchen in the winter or light rain, but it can be uncomfortable, and, with thunderstorms or heavy winds, dangerous. You should be familiar with your home’s year-round weather.

Will you get an adequate amount of usage from your outdoor kitchen? Are you fine with not being able to use the space when the weather doesn’t permit it? Will your use time be worth the cost? Answering these questions can help you decide if the outdoor kitchen investment is a good idea for you.

Conclusion

An outdoor kitchen is a luxurious addition to any home, adding value, style, and function. However, it’s not for everyone. If you hate cooking or being outside, you may be wasting your money. You’ll need to prepare or install adequate deck space for a level foundation, and your appliances will need electrical and plumbing hookups that are up to code. The climate in your area can significantly limit your use of the space. When you consider all factors, you can make the best decision for you and your home.