Outdoor Kitchens: Your Frequently Asked Questions, Answered!

A recent industry report shows that outdoor kitchens are trending. It turns out that people love getting together and celebrating in kitchens so much; they want to bring joy beyond just the inside of the home.

Just imagine nice weather with the stars above you, cooking a delicious meal while being a part of nature. Maybe you prefer cooking under the brilliant sun, but it’s all up to you.

Grand View Research reveals that, in 2021, they valued the market size for outdoor kitchens worldwide at USD 19.64 billion. One reason that the market size is so grand, beyond its popularity, is the many choices available. When you can dream up a magnificent outdoor kitchen, there is a way you can build it.

If you have questions about outdoor kitchens, this article has answers. Keep reading for a full scoop.

How Much Is an Outdoor Kitchen?

It depends on your choice of outdoor kitchen materials and appliances. The range of cost is very broad, from $1,000 to $100,000. According to the National Association of Realtors, however, an outdoor kitchen will generate a 71% return on investment.

What Is the Process?

Constructing an outdoor kitchen has three project layers. First, there are frames, which are the “bones” that will hold it together. Second, you must apply a surface to the framing material.

The third is applying the cladding material. The cladding material needs the surface first before it can be applied. Your finish becomes what the cladding material is, and it is also the outdoor kitchen’s attractive skin.

Some municipalities may have specific codes and regulations surrounding the construction of an outdoor kitchen. You will want to verify local laws before getting started, too.

What Are the Best Outdoor Kitchen Materials to Use?

Since you are making a significant investment, you want something that will last for the long term. How long your outdoor kitchen will last depends on the outdoor kitchen materials you use. The most common outdoor kitchen materials for frames are wood, metal, or concrete blocks.

Metal Frames

The most popular option is metal, and often because of its availability. Businesses usually provide metal frame designs that are custom or out of the box.

Metal frames offer significant benefits, including that they are easy to transport and lightweight. A low-gauge metal can hold a lot of weight, and they make the use of space more efficient.

The biggest drawback of a metal frame is that moisture causes rust and corrosion. If you live by the ocean or in a humid area, metal frames are not ideal.

Wood Frames

First, consider the advantages of a wood frame. It’s cost-effective and easy to build. On the downside, it is susceptible to rot, so there is a major challenge with potential degradation.

Concrete Frames

You also hear the acronym “CMU,” which stands for concrete masonry unit. Although, this method is less popular today. That doesn’t mean that it would not be a good fit for you.

Concrete is heavy, dense, and strong, so it holds up well no matter the climate. It is also non-combustible. Still, while the advantages are amazing, there are a few downsides.

It takes a long time and involves heavy machinery. Further, it requires finding a contractor with this trade skill, which can be challenging.

What Does Your Cladding Material Attach to?

On to step two. If you have a frame that is wood or metal, then you will want a cement board for your cladding material. The original use case for cement board was solely for interior use. An example of this is bathroom tiling.

Cement board does not have organic materials, so it is not likely to rot. It is made from water, silica, cement, reinforcing fibers, and limestone flour. Because of its material makeup, it is water resistant.

What Are Your Options for Cladding Material?

There are many kitchen finishing materials to choose from. These options are the most popular.

Stucco

This is a cladding material for anyone who is conscious of their budget. It is both inexpensive and popular.

Although, it is not the best choice for some climates. With places of high moisture or freeze-thaw climates, stucco is susceptible to flaking off or cracking.

Tile

This is a great option when you are looking for a wide variety of patterns and colors. However, the tile is fragile. Depending on the weather, they could pop off too.

Tile finishes are not the best if you live in a region with high moisture climates and large temperature fluctuations.

Stone or Brick

This gives an outdoor kitchen a nice rustic look, as stone or brick is sturdy and natural. It can be pricey, especially options like a real stone veneer. Although, manufacturers are taking note that the price tag may be too much and have created alternatives like manufactured veneer stone that has less of a sticker shock.

What Material Is Best for a Countertop?

There are tons of options, just like with cladding materials. Here are the most popular countertop options for your outdoor kitchen ideas.

• Bluestone/limestone
• Concrete
• Granite
• Quartz
• Soapstone
• Stainless steel
• Tile

Again, like with cladding materials, you want to consider the climate of your geographical region. Depending on your choice, some climates are too harsh for some materials.

What About Outdoor Kitchen Appliances?

You will want to run utility lines to your outdoor kitchen. What are kitchens without beverages and a place to store and cook food?

The most common appliances for an outdoor kitchen are side burners, grills, and smokers, but this is only the beginning. You can add a fridge, oven, ice maker, and beverage center.

Here are some of the best appliances to add to your outdoor kitchen.

• Cocktail station
• Flat-top grill or griddle
• Grill
• Grill exhaust hood
• Fridge
• Ice-making machine
• Oven
• Side burner
• Smoker
• Warming drawers
• Dishwasher

Finally, you don’t want to forget to add a sink and faucet, which will come in handy every time you are cooking outdoors.

Escaping Daily Life With Outdoor Kitchens

Does the hustle and bustle of daily life have you feeling stressed these days? Outdoor kitchens are a great way to relax, unwind, and enjoy life. You can easily customize them to what your heart desires.

Outdoor Escapes by Alliance Paving has been working hard to help the people of Central Florida build the outdoor kitchen of their dreams. If you want to know more about outdoor kitchens, our experts can help guide you through the process. Contact Outdoor Escapes today to get started.

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