Outdoor Kitchens: A Hot Addition to Your Backyard This Summer!
Outdoor kitchens have some great advantages. One, you don’t have to prepare chicken or ribs in a hot, stuffy kitchen. You can marinate or filet cuts in the backyard and store them in the outdoor kitchen’s fridge. Also you’re not alienated from your guests during a party. You’re right there, steps away from the table. Another asset is you can cook sumptuous meals in a very airy and roomy environment. Most units have extra inches for storage so everything from condiments to utensils can be kept outside. More expensive outdoor kitchens even have outlets to plug in toasters, blenders and food processors. These also come with more storage space. You can even install an outdoor wine cellar with the extra room.
The one problem with outdoor kitchens is space. You can have a good sized cooking area but you’ll need to sacrifice some of your yard or patio for it. An outdoor kitchen’s grill is approximately 48 inches (4 feet) wide and 15 to 26 inches deep. If you add a side burner and a shelf, count for another foot of yard or patio gone. Some outdoor chefs are opting for the more compact U shaped kitchens. They do save some space but these are made to keep kids from running through the cooking area.
Eating areas are also important in the outdoor kitchen configurations. Outdoor kitchens can come with 3 .5 by 3.5 foot tables or a long rectangular table area 8 foot in length. A longer eating space is perfect for larger parties as well as for laying out buffet tables. Remember to situate tables 5 feet from any stairway to prevent guests from tripping into the addition . If a table isn’t appealing then consider a counter. Make sure there is about two feet around each eating space as well as 15 inches of leg room blow it. As with an indoor kitchen there should be plenty of counter space to prepare food. Plan on 3 feet flanking both sides of the grill. Also plan on having the fridge, sink and storage area within reach too.
The grill is probably the most important component in any outdoor kitchen. Remember that gas units have more to offer and offer healthier cooking (charcoal grilled meats release carcinogens into the body) Many can be built into what’s known as an incombustible surround for a more lasting kitchen. They also provide greater control over cooking temperatures. As with any appliance,the more money you spend, the more you’ re going to get. Pricier grills will give more BTUs, have side burners and even rotisseries. They will also be made out of a better grade of stainless steel. These grills will need a surround There are ones with combustible material that require zero clearance installation so they can safely abut the grill. There are also stainless steel sleeve alternative that can be bought directly from the manufacturer but these will cost $500 extra.
If you’re into entertaining large groups of people you may want to splurge on a super deluxe outdoor kitchen and fancy cabinets. You may either want to make or have built custom cabinets .Most outdoor ones are constructed of masonry block and then finished in stucco or ceramic tile. These are sturdy and durable – lasting through summer’s scorching days through to winter’s frostiest nights. This may prove to be costly. Another option is modular light weight concrete ones. These can be made with cut outs to accommodate any type of appliance.
All kitchens need sinks and an outdoor one is no exception. A stainless steel basin is the best bet because it is non-corrosive. Only a cold water line will be needed (unless you’re planning to wash dishes outdoors. Adding a hot water will be an extra expense).If you live in a cold climate area, remember to have the plumber install a shut off valve. This allows homeowners to drain the line during the winter months Outdoor kitchens also need fridges. Don’t go for the grandiose. A good under the counter model will do just fine. They’re out of sight but have the right depth for storing meat, produce and even wine or beer. There are frost free models as well as ones that make ice. They can cost anywhere from $500 to $1200 depending on what extras are wanted. All outdoor cooking areas require power lines. Electric , gas and water should all be connected to the home’s main one. Electrical outdoor outlets need ground fault circuit interrupters. Also this line and the gas line have to be buried in two separate trenches.
An outdoor kitchen is a boon to both chef and property. It allows for cooking fresh ingredients in a fresh environment. It also allows for a more creative outdoor eating experience. It definitely beats grilling burgers and dogs on a dinky grill.
