Outdoor Kitchen Blog

Outdoor Kitchen, Outdoor Kitchens, and all things related

Selling Your Home: Increasing Your Home’s Value with an Outdoor Kitchen Kit

clock June 16, 2011 15:07 by author superman

If you are selling your home and looking for ways to maximize your return, consider purchasing an outdoor kitchen kit.  Outdoor kitchens can add thousands of dollars in value to any property and don’t involve a large amount of overhead to build.  When installed correctly and according to the size of your backyard, outdoor kitchens are well worth the investment.

When preparing your home to be listed in the often difficult real estate market, most homeowners focus on basic improvements like painting indoors and out and installing some basic landscaping.  Neglecting a perfectly good backyard during this process is an easy way to miss out on possible selling opportunities.  Interested buyers will find value in a home that has a backyard that is useful, as opposed to an unkempt piece of land that isn’t appealing or inviting.  By creating an outdoor space that is both functional and enjoyable, your home will seem larger and more inviting overall, making it more attractive to buyers.  And as an outdoor kitchen does add to your property value, installing an outdoor kitchen can make your home worth more overall. 

To stand out from the millions of other homeowners trying to sell a home on today’s slow real estate market, take a look at the numerous outdoor kitchen options that are available.  Whatever you select should be installed by professional outdoor kitchen experts, as do-it-yourself installations can often turn into nightmares when done by inexperienced individuals.  Get the most out of your investment with a proper installation, and you won’t have to worry about a thing.

There are many things that you must take into consideration when you are selling your home.  To ensure that you are getting a fair price for your investment, do everything you can to maximize the overall value of your home.  Installing an outdoor kitchen is an easy way to add a special feature to your home that will make it stand out from the rest, without draining your relocation budget.



How to Change the Look of Your Backyward with an Outdoor Kitchen

clock June 9, 2011 14:47 by author superman

It’s easy to neglect one of the most important areas of your home.  Many homeowners put their entire budget and design towards the interior of their home without considering how important the outside is as well.  By creating an outdoor space that is inviting, comfortable and useful, you can make the most out of your space.  Whether you live in a climate that is warm year round, or only enjoy a few warm months a year, an outdoor kitchen can provide a completely updated look without requiring months to complete.

Backyards don’t have to be expensive looking in order to be enjoyable.  Many outdoor kitchen specialists recommend going for a look that fits in well with the rest of the property.  If your home features simple colors and sophisticated designs, for example, try to mimic this look with your outdoor kitchen.  This will help it look more like an extension of your home instead of a mismatched addition to the main house.

Outdoor kitchens can be built using pre-designed kits that include countertops, cooking surfaces and sinks, or can be designed from scratch.  While having outdoor kitchens custom designed and built according to your specifications is an attractive option, it can sometimes be cost prohibitive for some home owners.  Consider your budget when looking at your options in order to ensure you pick something that you can enjoy without having to worry about how much you had to spend to have it installed.

After your outdoor kitchen has been installed, you’ll be amazed at how different your backyard looks.  Whether you just moved in and are renovating an older space or are decorating a brand new home, outdoor kitchens add value, class and utility to any backyard.  With the ability to cook and entertain outside, you’ll never have to be stuck cooking in a hot kitchen again cooking for your loved ones during the warmer months.  To start enjoying the outdoors today, see how easy it can be to set up an outdoor kitchen.



Backyard Remodeling Tips with Outdoor Kitchen Kits

clock June 2, 2011 14:31 by author superman

If you have resolved to finally install the outdoor kitchen of your dreams, an outdoor kitchen may be the answer for you.  Most homeowners don’t realize how much wasted space they have right in their own backyard, however, just thinking about the word “remodel” makes them worry,  Today, remodeling doesn’t have to mean months of endless construction  mountains of debt.   Outdoor kitchen kits provide a more affordable option for those who are look for quality that doesn’t break the budget.  With a wide variety of options available, kitchen kits designed for outdoor use are a realistic option for most homeowners.

When looking for an outdoor kitchen kit, think about what is most important to you when it comes to maximizing your space.  If you plan on doing more casual BBQ’s and get togethers instead of fancier events that require more kitchen tools and space, you may want to add more seating versus installing larger countertops.  Be sure to take into account space needed for landscaping around the kitchen and dining area as this is an easy way to increase the privacy of your outdoor kitchen.  Although the area is outside, it’s still important to provide security and comfort in order for the area to be appealing.  By including walls ceilings and strategically placed foliage in your outdoor kitchen design, you can rest assured that your privacy will be protected when you are enjoying your outdoor oasis.

An outdoor kitchen kit can be as complicated or as simple as your want it to be.  Those who are just starting out with designing their backyard tend to select standard designs that include a countertop, sink and cooking appliances, while those with a more gourmet flair prefer kitchen kits that include professional design for maximum utilization of the cooking space.  No matter which type of outdoor kitchen kit you select, you be ready to enjoy the warm summer months in style, without leaving your own backyard.  To learn more about completing your backyard remodeling project with an outdoor kitchen kit, contact your local outdoor specialists today.



How to Set up Family Friendly Outdoor Kitchens

clock May 26, 2011 11:20 by author superman

Having an outdoor kitchen that is designed for the whole family’s enjoyment is a great way to let everyone in on the fun.  Outdoor kitchens that are kid friendly should have a strong emphasis on safety as well as fun.  By allowing everyone to take part in the outdoor cooking experience, you can bring everyone together all summer long.

Cooking outside is a fun activity that brings a new experience to the whole family that goes outside the typical cooking routine that you currently utilize.  When planning an outdoor kitchen that will be useful for both you and your kids, consider your size differences and how much you want them to participate.  If you are dealing with smaller children, always include adequate storage that is out of reach of little hands to prevent injury from sharp or dangerous items.   Also, consider the counter height for the section you have designated as being set up for the kids.  If possible, try to install pieces that can grow with your child.  For example, you may choose a counter top that is taller than the child, but use a step stool or other device until they are old enough to reach it on their own.  This makes it easy to find an outdoor kitchen design that grows with the entire family.

To access your outdoor kitchen, consider planting an outdoor garden nearby.  Kids love to be involved in gardening projects, and teaching them to both grow and cook their own vegetables is a valuable skill for anyone to learn.  Start out with easy plants, such as tomatoes, corn, carrots and herbs.  These are more likely top produce at least a small crop that makes kids excited enough to continue with their gardening efforts. 

Making your outdoor kitchen kid friendly is a wonderful, unexpected way to include the entire family in the outdoor cooking process.  Teaching your child to cook while enjoying the comfort of the backyard is an incredible bonding experience that simply cannot be beat during the warm summer months.



The Sky’s the Limit: How to Plan the Perfect Outdoor Kitchen for You

clock May 19, 2011 10:58 by author superman

Building an outdoor kitchen offers more flexibility than an indoor kitchen renovation.  While you can always upgrade kitchen surfaces and appliances in an indoor setting, you are often limited in what you can do because of limited space and electrical restraints.  In an outdoor kitchen; however, you have much more freedom to get everything arranged the way you want. 

When planning outdoor kitchens, an important first step is to decide if the kitchen will be a focal point of the deck or patio space, or if it will serve as more of an accessory.  Think about much you will use the kitchen and how much space you will need.  Sometimes just having a nice bbq installed into a professional cooking countertop will suffice, while others require more advanced outdoor kitchen setups. Think about what your needs are before you make a decision.

No matter what size outdoor kitchen you select, be sure to minimize the distance between it and your indoor kitchen.  Since most homeowners find themselves using both kitchens when they are cooking outdoors, keeping this distance down will reduce the time it takes you to perfect your culinary delights. 

Be sure to take into consideration the climate you are in when designing an outdoor kitchen.  Areas with freezing winter temperature will need a setup that can be properly winterized during the off season, while those who live in hot climates or near the ocean should be careful of stainless steel corrosion.  If you are unsure about the effects of weather in your area, ask your neighbors for advice or contact a local outdoor expert kitchen team.

Before signing off on any type of design, make sure that all of the utilities you’ll need are accessible from the proposed kitchen site.  You’ll need adequate plumbing, gas and electricity in order to run a full kitchen outdoors.  Even if you have installed the kitchen yourself, it’s best to let the experts handle the electrical and gas work.  This will ensure that everything is hooked up correctly and in accordance with the city’s rules.



Outdoor Kitchen Kits: Where to Shop and What You Should Know

clock May 12, 2011 09:22 by author superman

Outdoor kitchens can greatly increase a home’s value, especially for those that are located in warm climates.  Not only are outdoor kitchen enjoyable and relaxing, but they are also functional and easy to install when they are purchased as an outdoor kitchen kit.  Pre-configured kits are perfect those who need an easy to install solution for their outdoor living space.  The kits differ by size and features that are included.  Available options include sinks, drawers, and cabinets that are available in a variety of configurations and finishes. 

Selecting an outdoor kitchen kit is much more affordable than having a custom built solution created for you by a professional contractor.  Unless you can afford the best contractor in the area, you should probably stick with a kitchen kit which will easily meet your needs and help you stay within your budget. 

High quality kitchen kits typically run from around $1300 to $4000, depending on the pieces and the size.  Some companies will work with you to design a pre-fabricated kit that is customized to your needs.  Cabinets can be installed in a different order or arrangement, or certain pieces can be substituted for others.  With this type of flexibility, you simply can’t go wrong with selecting an outdoor kitchen kit.

Talk with an outdoor kitchen expert to see what kind of options are available and see what would work best with your space.  Be sure to bring along measurements, as it’s easy to get carried away with pieces that are too large when you think you have more space.  To ensure that your kitchen is installed correctly the first time, a pre-fabricated kit makes it easy to find pieces that are guaranteed to fit into your yard.

Building an outdoor kitchen just in time for summer is the perfect way to bring your friends and family together for some outdoor fun.  To get your yard ready for entertaining, consult a local outdoor kitchen products professional today and see how easy it is to install an outdoor kitchen kit. 



How to Keep Outdoor Kitchens Looking Great All Season Long

clock May 5, 2011 08:08 by author superman

Outdoor kitchens need proper care to look and run great throughout the warm weather season.  Just as you would clean and maintain your indoor kitchen surfaces and appliances, outdoor kitchens need to be cared for as well.

If you are planning to install an outdoor kitchen kit or are planning an outdoor kitchen renovation in an existing space, there are some choices you can make that will make the maintenance process easier.  The choice of materials you pick for the cabinets, walls and flooring should all be designed for outdoor kitchens.  While it may be tempting to select discount materials since the items will be outside, this will just end up costing you more in the end.  Over time, weather and regular wear and tear can chip away at wood and other materials that may not include weather protection.  To ensure that your kitchen can withstand anything that the weather brings, look for cabinets and other materials that are designed specifically for outdoor kitchens.  This way, you’ll know that you are selecting the right products for the job.

To keep cabinets free from the grime that can build up due to ash and smoke from the BBQ, water from the pool and even sunscreen, cabinets should be wiped down with a standard kitchen degreaser.   Floors, walls and all cooking surfaces should be disinfected and cleaned on a regular basis to prevent mildew or bacteria from building up.  Keeping everything clean will prevent food odors and dirt from sticking around.

It’s also important to keep the BBQ area clean as well.  Leaving out food items and crumbs will only encourage rodents and insects to gather, creating a germ-filled eating area.  Be sure to keep this area clear of debris, and always throw away food or store it inside in between  bbq’s.

With some regular maintenance, your outdoor kitchen will stay look great all season long.  Keep the area clean in between any meals or parties and check to make sure thing appliances are in good working order.  By being prepared and taking care of your outdoor oasis, your family will have a space that everyone can enjoy.



Perfect Babyback Ribs on Your Outdoor Kitchen

clock October 27, 2010 03:38 by author superman

This weekend I spent some time cooking ribs and chicken wings on my outdoor kitchen. I have been tweaking my rib recipe, and I think they are finally perfect, so I thought I'd share my technique. I cooked the ribs for almost 7 hours total, mostly on indirect heat using my Big Green Egg.  I started with three slabs of baby back ribs, and cut them in half.  I seasoned them with montreal steak seasoning, and then a simple mesquite rub.  My goal was to keep these from being too spicy.  I have children that always complain if I make spicy BBQ! So these needed to be a crowd pleaser.  I started the grill early in the day at a low temperature, about 275 degrees.  I put the ribs on a rib rack, just above a drip pan with 2 cans of beer.  I tented the ribs with foil to keep the moisture very close to the ribs.  Since I was planning a long slow cook, drying-out was a concern.  About every hour or two, I would pour more beer on the ribs. This would keep them moist, and refill the drip pan.  At about the 6 hour mark I wrapped the ribs in foil and waited for my guests to arrive.  I lowered the heat to just above 200 and waited until my guests showed up. As soon as my friends came over, I unwrapped the ribs, moved them to direct heat (about 300 degrees) and COVERED the ribs with Sweet Baby Ray's sauce.  I let them sit on the grill for about 20-30 minutes covered in sauce.  They were absolutely perfect when they came off the grill.  Sweet, sticky, and fall-off-the-bone tender. Most recipes I have tried for baby back ribs call for 350 degrees and 3 hours.  Every time I tried that approach, I always felt they meat could be more tender and flavorful. So I have been gradually bumping up the cooking time, and bumping down the heat.  This technique absolutely works.  I think the tenting and moisture just under the ribs are the key... so I'm sharing.  I personally can't stand when people sit on great recipes. BBQ is about sharing and enjoying food with friends. I guess that is why we like building outdoor kitchens!  I surely couldn't eat all the ribs I made myself, and they don't keep very well, so share! And of course, some friendly competition among friends is a perfect excuse to get together and enjoy... more ribs!



Fall is here, time to enjoy your outdoor kitchen

clock October 14, 2010 02:03 by author superman

I was in Home Depot this weekend looking for an umbrella stand.  All of the grilling, barbeque, and patio furniture items were on clearance, mostly gone, to make room for Halloween and Christmas decorations. I never understand this.  The fall is the best time of year to get outside and enjoy your outdoor kitchen.  Football season is here, the weather is nice.  What a better time to fire up the grill and make some ribs, invite some friends over, and get the best use of your outdoor kitchen.



Cleaning up the outdoor kitchen

clock July 30, 2010 12:49 by author superman

I just returned from a vacation to check on my yard, which includes my outdoor kitchen. The yard was a bit of a mess, the pool needed cleaning, and there were leaves everywhere. However, the outdoor kitchen was spotless! It was a nice reminder how convenient our maintenance free outdoor cabinetry is!