DIY Outdoor Kitchen Ideas

There are many different choices when it comes to cabinetry for your outdoor kitchen. However, unlike choosing materials that go inside your home, you need something that can withstand various temperatures, moisture, and the sun. When developing your outdoor kitchen, you might consider getting cabinets made from HDPE. This material is far superior to stainless steel and PVC outdoor kitchen cabinetry, and is resistant to flooding, heavy rains, fading due to sun exposure, and any kind of moisture.

Add a Cover

Another way to protect your outdoor kitchen is to add a cover. This can include an awning or pergola. Not only will this protect your appliances, it will also protect you. If you’re like most people, you don’t want the sun beating down on you while you’re trying to create a tasty meal. If you have a cover, you won’t have to worry about it.

A cover will also reduce the amount of UV rays that can fade or warp your kitchen accessories. It can also prevent things falling into your kitchen, including branches that might cause damage.

Cover Your Countertops

Most outdoor kitchens are equipped with countertops that are durable and sturdy. More often than not, this includes granite or stone. Since these elements are used to being outside in various weather conditions, they should be able to stand up to adverse weather conditions.

However, to keep them protected, you might consider covering them when you aren’t using the kitchen. While they may be able to stand up to different types of weather, they could still be damaged by debris. If high winds arise, things will be blown all over your backyard. Reduce the number of chips and dings that could occur in your countertops and cover them to keep them safe.

Disconnect the Water Supply

Many outdoor kitchens come equipped with a fridge and sink—as they should. It’s much more convenient to take a few steps to grab food items or to wash your food or hands than going inside for what you need. If you live in an area where the temperature drops below freezing, to protect your appliances and your outdoor kitchen, you’ll want to disconnect the water supply. You’ll also need to make sure the pipes are drained.

If you don’t do this step, you risk the pipes freezing and breaking. This can be a costly issue to deal with, and it doesn’t take long to unhook the pipes from your kitchen. Again, you invested a lot in this luxury, so take the time to protect it when it’s not in use.

Protect against Mold and Rust

Two of the biggest things that could have an impact on your outdoor kitchen are mold and rust. Both of these thrive in moist environments, and outdoors, this happens in abundance. To reduce the risks of either of these growing in your outdoor kitchen, make sure to seal and protect every surface. You’ll also want to make sure any spills are cleaned up as soon as possible and that any puddles that form after a rainstorm are removed.

Best outdoor kitchen design ideas

​

120 Awesomely clever ideas for outdoor kitchen | VIDEO

Conclusion

After spending a lot of money to add a kitchen to your backyard, make sure you take care of it. You’ll need to protect it from the weather by having the right elements and adding some type of cover. All of these can increase the life span of this space and have it look amazing when you’re ready to use it.