Outdoor kitchens are becoming more popular as people are looking for ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Even if you don’t have an expansive backyard, there are plenty of ways to cook outside – you just need the right materials! Here are 4 essential materials every top-notch outdoor kitchen has.
1. A Countertop
A countertop provides a place to prepare food, as well as a spot to set down plates and utensils. If you don’t have room for a full countertop in your outdoor kitchen, consider installing a bar with the help of some outdoor kitchen frames that are designed specifically for this purpose. This frame can take many forms and shapes – from a simple shelter made with PVC pipes and tarps, all the way up to a full-on pavilion with heating and seating. Its main purpose is to provide some kind of barrier against the elements so that you don’t have to cook in the elements.
2. Storage Space
No one wants to lose their kitchen gadgets in a sea of mess, so having storage space for your essential cooking tools is important. You can install shelves or racks on an outdoor kitchen frame, or you can simply build your stand-alone structure that will provide shelter where you can keep plates and cups without fear of them getting dampened by rainwater. This also allows you to keep utensils within arms’ reach when grilling or preparing food – it’s all about maximizing the amount of time outdoors! The backyard is a great space to relax with family and friends, but it can be hard to find the perfect storage solution for all of your outdoor needs.
3. Easy Access to Electricity
Having easy access to electricity can make your outdoor kitchen even better – there are plenty of ways you can incorporate electricity into an outdoor setting, from installing lights to using a power strip so you can plug in your appliances. This is especially important if you’re using an outdoor grill, as you’ll want to make sure the propane tank is close by. So, ever wonder how to install an outdoor electrical installation? It’s not as hard as you might think, but there are a few things you need to know before you start. Outdoor electrical installations can be done by homeowners, but it requires some knowledge of electricity and safety. If the idea of installing an outdoor electrical installation sounds daunting, don’t worry! Here are four steps on how to do it right.
- Find the power source for the outlet – this is usually in your breaker box or at a nearby receptacle where wires come into your home from underground service cables.
- Run a wire from the power source (the breaker box or receptacle) and out through the wall opening in the house.
- Pull the wire up through the wall and house until it reaches where you want to install the outlet. At this point, be sure to fish out any insulation that was pushed into the wall cavity during installation.
- Finish electrical box installation by screwing on a plate to cover outlet opening, then attach faceplates for the switch(es) or receptacle(s).
Electricity is also important because you need proper lighting. Installing lighting around your outdoor kitchen can help you prep food and set out plates before guests arrive – instead of having to fumble around with candles or lanterns that could be easily blown out by a passing breeze!
4. A Cozy Seating Area With A Fire Pit
A fire pit is a great way to keep warm on chilly evenings, but can you imagine how much more enjoyable it would be if you had the right seating around it? A few chairs, some pillows, and a table are all that’s needed for this cozy outdoor seating area. Add in an oriental rug and some candles and you’ll have yourself one of the most relaxing outdoor spaces.
A fire pit is a great way to keep warm on those chilly nights and also provides a focal point for your outdoor kitchen. You can buy a pre-made fire pit or build your own from scratch, depending on your needs and preferences. Just be sure to place it in an area that’s far away from any overhanging branches or other flammable materials! You can also include other comforts such as outdoor heaters and ceiling fans to extend your time outdoors.
Having an outdoor kitchen is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you have a small patio or a sprawling backyard, there are plenty of ways to create the perfect outdoor cooking space. With the right materials, you can easily turn your backyard into the perfect place to entertain guests and relax with family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your outdoor kitchen today!