Creating a Functional Long-Lasting Waterproof Outdoor Kitchen

Here is a new blog post from a guest author contributing to
Lang’s Kitchen & Bath’s website. All views expressed are those of the author.

How much time do you spend outside? Do you like to do the majority of the cooking? If you answered "a lot" and "yes" to these questions, we have some amazing suggestions to enhance your home.

With so many people enjoying time relaxing and entertaining at home, more homeowners are transforming their backyard porch, patio, or deck into a perfect outdoor oasis. So, how could we make these areas any better? How about incorporating an outdoor kitchen!

There are many reasons to cook and eat outside. A primary reason is the enjoyment of your backyard or deck, especially when the weather is pleasant. Another justification is that it makes life easier to have a kitchen outside rather than carrying food back and forth from your indoor kitchen.  Thirdly, it is highly beneficial to connect with nature while you relax the worries of your day away. In this blog, we'll look at examples of outdoor kitchens and discuss ways to make your outdoor kitchen waterproof and sustainable.

Start Simple

Starting with something simple is a good place to begin. Getting up to get ice, a cold drink, or a refrigerated snack can be a hassle when you have to walk into your house while you are relaxing outdoors. Instead, install a small refrigerator and drink cart outside on your porch, deck, or patio, such as a dorm-style refrigerator or a wine cooler. Two key things to remember: Ensure your electrical appliance is near a power outlet and shield it from moisture.

Turning up the Heat

We've seen pizza ovens, smokers, and even regular ovens grace backyards or the decks of some of our clients. They have the right idea – an outdoor oven customized to one's needs is essential for successful cooking and entertainment. So, how can you keep this area dry? By installing an under-deck drainage system.

Such a drainage system for decks involves installing an over-the-joist deck drainage system that uses troughs, gutters, and downspouts to divert water away from your deck. Once installed, it keeps the space below your deck dry and free from the elements. Homeowners can then customize a functional space below their deck for even more possibilities.

Get Grilled

Charbroiled burgers, grilled hot dogs, and veggies are the perfect trifecta for grilled goodness. Whether you have a freestanding grill or something in a more permanent structure, you want to include enough space for prep and heat-resistant material surrounding your grill. Additionally, you'll need to consider seating logistics: if the wind blows smoke in one direction, you'll want your guests in the opposite direction. You can also mitigate smoke from the grill by installing a hood.

Keeping the Food Prep Area Dry

We touched upon the food preparation area before, but this deserves its own section. Cooks who are serious grillers will want to stay outside and have easy access to their food. They need a prep area, requiring counter space adjacent to the grill (or oven). When looking for materials for a counter, it's essential to consider the type of climate. For example, if you're considering granite, ensure it has UV stabilizers. Stainless steel is another consideration, as it's resistant to rust and is heat and cold-tolerant.

Setting Up a Sink

An outdoor sink is super convenient to have. It will reduce the number of trips to and from your indoor kitchen sink. Returning to drain something or wash a plate can take away time from both the grill and your guests.

Arrange your sink in a way that not only aids the prepping and cooking but also protects it from rain, moisture, and, ultimately, rust. Sealant will help this, and we have also found that installing flashing around the sink and the plumbing area will ensure that it stays dry. Incidentally, planning an "assembly line" will make your outdoor culinary adventures run much more smoothly. Having the correct setup that includes your sink can work wonders in any cooking endeavor.

Raising the Bar

For homeowners who entertain often, there is nothing like having a wine refrigerator or a built-in kegerator with your outdoor kitchen. This adds a whole new dimension of entertaining to your kitchen! We know that you won't be disappointed if you decide to make a little space for some alcoholic (or non-alcoholic) drinks. There are many options for outdoor wine refrigerators, and it's possible to include a kegerator to be tapped for ease of use. Keeping them dry is paramount, so make use of flashing to ensure your beer or wine coolers stay dry.

Lighting Considerations

An important aspect of your outdoor kitchen is to keep it well-lit. This is not just to see what you're doing regarding food prep and serving, but also for your safety. Some outdoor grills will come with built-in LED lights so you can see what you're cooking, and it is very possible to install extra lighting around your cabinetry and throughout your deck and seating area.

Number One Priority: Safety

The most significant factor when planning an outdoor kitchen design is safety. Not only do you want to ensure you have ample voltage to run your electric appliances, water hook-ups with adequate pressure, and secure lighting, but you also want to be sure your deck can hold the weight of an outdoor kitchen. Generally, most decks hold 50 pounds per square foot. When other elements come into play, such as an outdoor kitchen addition, it's important to note that large appliances will impact the weight your deck can hold. Sometimes, it might be more advantageous to design your kitchen on a patio next to or under your deck.

Thoughtful planning will aid your deck in lasting a long time. Waterproof your deck by ensuring it is painted or sealed (if it is wood). Good craftsmanship, durable materials, and routine maintenance will help you keep your deck in prime condition. Regular cleanings and debris removal are instrumental in increasing the longevity of your deck. Furthermore, regular inspections will go far in maintaining your deck's strength and keeping it in top shape. Protecting it from moisture, mold, and rot – and diverting water and wetness away from your deck are key for ensuring it has a long life.

A Few Final Thoughts

With spring in full swing and summer around the corner, now is the time to put your culinary dreams in place. It could be a little bistro table and cart, or you may embark upon your dream outdoor kitchen remodel with a gas grill and a wood-fired pizza oven. Either way, make sure you do your research and planning – and contact a professional to guide you through the building and permitting process. Carefully plan your deck and outdoor kitchen, including waterproofing, so you can have years of use.

Depending on the amount of time you spend outside, your entertaining habits, and the climate, plan your deck and kitchen carefully to meet your needs. There is nothing like dining al fresco while appreciating nature. Sipping coffee and listening to the sounds of birds in the morning can lead to memorable outdoor dining experiences.