Because durability is an essential aspect of outdoor kitchens, Stone veneer is an option with low maintenance that doesn’t require sealing or painting. Real stone is heavy, costly and requires the skills of a mason. Custom cast stone, such as the one used in this project by Premier Stone, is easier to work with since it is lighter, cuts quicker and lasts as long as real stone, all with the same natural appearance as genuine stone.
Making an Outdoor Stone Kitchen
Choosing the right materials is crucial when building an outdoor kitchen. Here are some tips to consider when making a stone kitchen counter: Cost, construction, and maintenance. Having a basic knowledge of these topics will make it a breeze. You’ll also see the difference it makes in the overall look of your kitchen. We hope you enjoy these tips!
Let’s know how to make an outdoor kitchen with perfect stone and proper planning.
Cost
If you’re planning to install an outdoor stone kitchen, you’ll need to determine the cost of labour and materials. Install a stone oven can range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on its size. Other appliances, such as a refrigerator, can run you about $125-300 per square foot. Small refrigerators are ideal for outdoor kitchens since they easily store food and beverages and are stylish but don’t look out of place.
One of the most important factors to consider when determining the cost of your outdoor stone kitchen is the material you’ll use. You can choose from various types of stone, but some are porous and will stain easily. Others will change colour over time because of UV rays. For this reason, the stone is a premium material, and it’s important to choose the right type. For the most beautiful outdoor kitchen, choose the best commercial kitchen equipment.
Besides the material, you’ll need to consider the appliances. You’ll need a sink to provide water and power to your outdoor kitchen. Cabinets, typically made from concrete composite boards or stainless steel, are anchored with tap cons and finished. Countertops are a vital part of outdoor kitchen functionality.
Materials
When deciding to build an outdoor kitchen, materials are very important. You must make sure that you have the right materials to look great and withstand the extreme temperatures outdoors. If you’re uncertain what type of material you want to use, you can consult with a landscape design professional to give you an idea of what would look best in your space. After all, choosing materials for an outdoor kitchen can be as much fun as important.
A soapstone countertop is a great option for creating a kitchen for your outdoor living space. The stone is incredibly durable and resistant to scratching and staining. It also has a naturally dark appearance that will complement any outdoor space. But be aware that soapstone is soft, and you will have to re-seal the surface periodically to keep it looking new. Luckily, soapstone can be buffed and oiled to prevent stains.
Another popular material for an outdoor stone kitchen is granite. Granite is a natural stone formed by breaking down large rocks and compression. The stone’s smooth texture allows it to withstand the heat of hot pans and pots without losing its appearance. Granite countertops are very durable, but they are not ideal for outdoor use, so choose a lighter colour when choosing your countertop. Marble is another good choice for outdoor stone kitchens. It’s versatile and resistant to heat, making it a popular choice for outdoor kitchen countertops.
Construction
The first step in constructing an outdoor stone kitchen is choosing the stones you want. Many choices, including natural stone, tile, or stone veneer. Natural stone is more expensive and requires professional masonry work. Alternatively, you can use manufactured stone. While actual stone is ideal, it’s not always practical. For example, extreme climate changes can easily damage tiles. In such a case, tile should be avoided.
Another option for outdoor kitchens is steel. Steel can withstand a range of weather. For instance, it can cost between $67 and $95 per square foot. Steel is also an eco-friendly option that costs less than other materials. Once the building foundation is complete, the kitchen unit can be installed. Depending on the design, it may take longer to install the equipment. A complex outdoor kitchen may require a subcontractor to install electrical and plumbing components.
Outdoor stone kitchens are typically constructed from pre-cast concrete units or natural stone veneers. Counter-tops can be built from bluestone, decorative concrete, or marble. So, what are your options? Here is a quick guide to the construction process. Once you know the basic technique, you’ll choose the material.
Maintenance
If your outdoor stone kitchen is covered in a layer of paint, you should regularly remove it using a diluted cleaning solution. However, if the paint is extremely thick, you may need a commercial “heavy liquid” paint stripper. This chemical normally contains lye and caustic soda, etching the surface. It is important to use protective gear and plastic scrapers when working with this solution.
You should use a mild cleaning solution, such as a glass cleaner. Then, you can power wash the stone. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. A mild dish soap and water solution will work for stonework, but excessive pressure will ruin the surface. Power washing should be performed after the season is over and before freezing winters. The stone will be cleaner and shinier than before, so following the manufacturer’s recommendations is crucial.
To maintain the stone in your outdoor kitchen, you can use either power wash it yourself or hire a professional. Power washing can remove grill smoke, grease, grass clippings, and mildew and help maintain the surface. You should also drain the supply lines for the sink and appliances. This way, you won’t have to worry about leakages. It is also important to check the sealant before power washing your outdoor stone kitchen.
Planter walls
To create a beautiful, well-designed wall, start with a plan. Determine how tall the wall will be and the width of the planter box. You can use 2x4s to support the structure of plywood for a planter box. Line the wood frame with plastic to avoid getting damaged during installation. If you plan to add bricks, you can use mason’s lath and secure it. This will give the mortar a powerful grip.
After building the first course, lay the second course. Backfill the walls evenly with soil. This will help the wall settle evenly and prevent structural instability. The ground is heavy, so it will need to be dispersed. Adding shims to prevent wobble is important to ensure a strong, attractive wall. However, keep in mind that you’ll be building a long, sloping wall.
One great idea for planter walls is to stack concrete blocks in a geometric design. You can paint them black or a dark, dramatic colour to make a bold statement. Then, place potted plants in the holes visible from the outside. You can create many unique looks by using various wood types and colours. Alternatively, you can build a planter wall incorporating a combination of styles.
Wood frame
The basic steps to building an outdoor stone kitchen include laying out a footing for the cabinetry, attaching the posts, and installing the counter and sink. Choose a light flat brick material such as travertine or slate for the outer stonework. You can cut the boards with a multi-tool and secure them with construction adhesive to avoid water damage. Then, pour the concrete top on top of the frame using an upside-down method. Use a sturdy, non-sinking surface, as a concrete countertop will sink a little with time and water.
Once the frame is complete, you can assemble the rest of the kitchen’s components. It will take you a weekend to complete the project but require moderate DIY skills and specialised equipment. Once you have finished putting together the frame and lath, you can apply the stone and mortar. Don’t forget to secure the doors and grills. If you’d prefer a more finished look, you can add tile or stucco to the walls.
If you’re building a wooden outdoor kitchen, choose pressure-treated pine. This material will withstand extreme temperatures better than wood and be more resistant to rot. In addition, use a cement backer board on the inside or outside of the structure to protect the wood. You’ll still have to take fire safety precautions when using wood to build an outdoor kitchen. You should also use the kitchen a propane BBQ, as it is safer than other materials.
Budget for Stone
If you plan to build an outdoor kitchen, you first need to decide on the budget. The cost of natural stone for outdoor kitchens varies widely, but you can expect to pay from $15 to $30 per square foot for the same type. Some excellent materials to choose from are slate, limestone 5, bluestone, and granite. These materials provide a rustic look and a modern, sophisticated appeal. You can even opt for a fireplace, fire pit, or both!
Another important factor in setting up an outdoor stone kitchen is the location of its utilities. Often, utilities will increase the overall cost. You should also consider the utilities, including electricity, water, and sewage. If you want to install your outdoor stone kitchen close to your home, you should help electricians, plumbers or ensure the proper wiring and plumbing.
Final Words:
If you’re planning to build a large outdoor kitchen, you’ll have to budget more than a small one. However, the investment may be worth it, as outdoor stone kitchens are more valuable than you think. They are better than swimming pools for recouping their costs. Install an outdoor kitchen depends on your needs, so consider them.
So, choose the best custom cast stone or modular outdoor kitchen equipment from us. If you have questions, we can answer your questions and make the outdoor kitchen of your dreams.
