Increase The Value Of Your Home With an Outdoor Kitchen!

Increase The Value Of Your Home With an Outdoor Kitchen

Kitchen renovations are a very popular way in which people can both beautify their homes while also increasing their homes’ values. Many people wonder if adding an outdoor kitchen will also result in an increase in value. According to real estate experts, adding one may add more to your home’s value than even an indoor kitchen renovation might.

If you renovate your kitchen inside of your house, you can expect a return on investment of up to 80 percent, a terrific return indeed. Adding a kitchen outdoors, however, may increase the value of your home from between 100 and 200 percent.

Here are some tips for getting the most out of your kitchen addition.

Make Certain You Have the Right Spaces

Besides picking the perfect space in your backyard in which to build your kitchen outside, you should make certain the kitchen itself will include spaces to dine and socialize, an area in which you can cook, a place to clean up, an area for food preparation and an area to store drinks. Each area should be large enough to allow you room to move so you won’t be too crowded while you work.

The Importance of a Roof

You should definitely add a roof structure over the top of your kitchen area. This will allow you to use it more months out of the year, including in weather that is inclement. This helps you by keeping the sun and rain from damaging your equipment and your furniture, and will have the added benefit of allowing you to continue your planned events without needing to reschedule, even if it rains.

Use Pavers

Using slabs of natural granite, travertine or slate to create a beautiful floor for your kitchen space can add functionality as well as a sense of luxuriousness. It will also be very strong and able to support your expensive equipment and furniture.

Decide on Whether to Have a Sink

You’ll want to decide whether or not to have an outdoor sink with running water. It is highly convenient to have one, but you’ll want to look at the cost of running plumbing lines to the area where you’ll have your kitchen installed. Generally, it’s less expensive the closer your kitchen will be to your home.

Weatherproof Everything

You’ll want to be sure and weatherproof your cooking equipment and other installed items. Choosing a high-quality grill made of stainless steel is a good idea, as it can withstand exposure to the elements while also being easily cleaned. Make certain your flooring is sealed as well.

Add Natural Stone Countertops and Durable Outdoor Cabinets

Natural stone countertops in outdoor kitchens can last for decades if properly sealed. They also can resist stains and the most vigorous of uses if you select the right type.

To learn more about how you can best use your backyard space and create a lovely kitchen, give us a call today, or fill in your information in our contact form.

Planning Your Outdoor Kitchen

Bringing the Indoors, Out with an Outdoor Kitchen

The summer is a time for outdoor entertaining, but a customized outdoor kitchen can be enjoyed throughout the year if planned correctly. Making careful choices regarding everything from the flooring to the appliances will provide years of entertainment for friends and loved ones. Here’s what you should think about before you build your outdoor kitchen.

Include the Four Essential Spaces

Every functional kitchen should have a designated area for preparing food, cooking, serving, and cleaning. Start planning with these essentials and make sure that there is adequate space to work in each area without being crowded. The more work that can be done outside means less time running back inside the house.

Add a Roof Structure

Add a Roof StructureAn outdoor space that you plan to spend any time enjoying should be protected with a roof structure. No one wants to cancel plans because of unexpected rain, and with a canopy overhead, you don’t have to. It also minimizes the amount of damage the sun and rain will gradually cause to the appliances and furniture. You don’t have to create a complete enclosure as long as you can provide a comfortable cooking and dining area that is out of the direct weather.

Install Durable Cabinets and Walking Surfaces

There is no sense in cutting corners when designing a luxurious outdoor kitchen if you want it to last. Walking surfaces need to be treated for weather protection and sturdy enough to handle the weight of the kitchen and multiple guests. If you want to go with a raised platform, wood or composite decking is a great place to start. Slate and travertine stone pavers are options that add slip-resistance, or deck tiles over concrete add an aesthetic advantage. Choose a walking surface that is pleasing to your personal taste but also serves the need for sturdiness and durability.

Normal cabinets that are built for indoor use are susceptible to damage when exposed to cold temperatures and rain. Always go with cabinet solutions that are designed specifically for outdoor applications.

Weatherproof Your Appliances

Speaking of the weather and your expensive appliances, it’s important to choose products that can withstand living outdoors. Stainless steel is a very durable option that not only holds up against the elements, it is easy to clean. Items that are more susceptible to damage should each have a cover to provide an extra element of protection throughout the years.

Choose the Right Materials for your Bar Top

Natural stone is the way to go when designing an outdoor bar top. Granite, soapstone, and Bluestone are attractive options that can withstand years of use in the kitchen. It’s an area that your friends and family can gather to prepare food, eat, or relax together enjoying a few drinks. Take advantage of the opportunity to make this heavy use area an attractive and unique focal point.

Forget the days of staying inside simply because the weather is unsuitable for cooking out. An exceptional outdoor kitchen is a great way to bring entertaining family and friends to the next level. We would be happy to schedule an appointment to provide expert advice and recommendations for your project as soon as you fill out our contact form.

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