Durable and Stylish: Top Material Options for Outdoor Kitchens Installation

Cooking for loved ones and making lasting family memories is one of life’s greatest joys. An outdoor kitchen creates a sense of delight and ambiance that only nature can provide, making it the ideal place to gather family and friends. 

Custom-built outdoor kitchens perform similarly to interior kitchens, allowing you to entertain guests while still preparing meals. At Outdoor Makeover and Living Spaces, we are known for providing you with the best outdoor kitchen installation services in Atlanta. Our team of expert outdoor kitchen installers strives to exceed your expectations by incorporating you into a turnkey process that allows us to match your bespoke needs best. A bespoke outdoor kitchen, designed with all of the comforts of an interior kitchen, has several options to consider, and we can assist you in customizing yours.

However, it is a significant financial commitment, so you want to install one that will last as long as possible. This is where a primary concern appears: “Type of Material.” Yes, you may be wondering which materials are best for outdoor kitchens.

In this blog, we’ll explore the key considerations you should make when choosing the best materials for your outdoor kitchen.

Outdoor Kitchen Frame Materials: 

Metal Frames: Metal frames are the most popular option. Frequently, this is due to availability. Most firms provide custom or out-of-the-box metal frame designs. There are several advantages to employing metal frames. They are lightweight and easy to move. And if you use a low gauge metal, they can withstand much pressure. Additionally, metal frames make good use of space. You will have plenty of internal space to access your built-in barbecue or store stuff. 

Metal frames are vulnerable to moisture. If you live in a humid environment, near the seaside, or in a freeze-thaw climate… Be aware of this. If moisture reaches your metal frames… Corrosion and rust can degrade them over time. Eventually, this will jeopardize the structural integrity of your outdoor kitchen. That is not a simple repair!

Metal that is corrosion—and weather-resistant is your best option. However, this will offer you a little extra time if you reside in Atlanta or a nearby area. It is not a permanent solution.

Wood Frames: Your house is most likely wood-framed. Consider doing the same for your outdoor kitchen. Wood is more affordable than other materials and easier to work with.

Where is the problem?

Wood framing has certain advantages. However, there are various reasons why wood is not suitable for your outdoor kitchen.

The primary concern here is safety. Wood is flammable, and when combined with a piping-hot built-in grill, this poses a major safety risk. Even investing in an insulated jacket may not protect you from the hazards.

Second, wood degrades quickly outdoors. It is highly vulnerable to rotting, warping, and swelling. If termites create their home in your outdoor kitchen, It’s game over.

Ultimately, wood is unsuitable for an outdoor kitchen installation.

Instead, you may consider…

Concrete Blocks: This method entails using concrete blocks to create the structural frame of your outdoor kitchen. The outside is clad with your preferred material to get the desired finish.

We are all familiar with the conventional features of concrete. It’s dense, heavy, and durable. As a result, concrete blocks can withstand almost any weather condition. You do not have to worry about corrosion or concrete degradation.

It is also not flammable. Making it a safer option than wood!

Note: Hire a professional outdoor kitchen contractor for concrete outdoor kitchen installation.

Masonry: Masonry cabinetry covers a metal frame or concrete blocks with stucco, ornamental stone, or brick.

The natural beauty of masonry cabinetry gives your outdoor kitchen a distinct style with a more built-in feel. You can also select materials that complement your home’s façade or surrounding features, such as a patio or a rock wall.

Masonry cabinet structures are extremely strong and resistant to various weather conditions.

Some disadvantages of stone outdoor kitchen cabinets include lengthier design times, higher installation costs, and more difficult accessorizing.

Outdoor Kitchen Countertops Ideas

Tile: Tile is incredibly adaptable. It can be utilized as an island finish and on counters. It is arguably the most affordable alternative for countertops. However, it has the same issues as a tile island finish.

For starters, it has low flexural strength and is fragile. As a result, it’s prone to splitting and coming apart. As previously said, it is difficult to keep clean. Cleanliness of countertops is extremely crucial! After all, you will be using it to prepare and serve food. So, I want to consider the tile countertop of the outdoor kitchen, and then maintenance is the key.

Bluestone and Limestone: Limestone and bluestone are excellent choices for individuals seeking a natural appearance. They blend in perfectly with outdoor surroundings. However, limestone and bluestone are quite permeable, so they require frequent sealing and maintenance to avoid stains.

Granite: Granite is ideal for sleek and contemporary outdoor kitchen designs. It’s a solid, durable material that’s simple to maintain. Outdoor kitchen granite countertops can also be stain-resistant if properly sealed. It’s worth noting that black granite for outdoor kitchen countertops might get heated in the sun. If your outdoor kitchen will not be covered or protected from direct sunlight… To decrease the impression, consider using a lighter hue.

Stainless Steel: There’s little to write about stainless steel outdoor kitchen countertops. Yes, they are easy to clean and maintain! However, they absorb heat like nobody’s business. You’re better off keeping stainless steel limited to your outdoor kitchen appliances.

Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets

Outdoor Kitchen cabinets must resist moisture, mold, heat, rust, and filth. The three most common cabinetry materials are stainless steel, marine-grade polymer, and wood.

If you’re looking at stainless steel cabinets, they’ll be sturdy with welded corners, ensuring structural integrity and lifespan. A low-maintenance choice is a marine-grade polymer that is watertight, allowing you to wash or hose off your outdoor space as needed. Sealed timber is another popular choice for outdoor kitchen cabinets. It is best to use a rot-resistant exterior timber, such as Teak.

It is also crucial to ensure the componentry, including hinges, handles, and draw rollers, are made of quality materials suitable for outdoor use.

Outdoor Kitchen Flooring

Like inside kitchen flooring, outdoor flooring should be long-lasting and easy to maintain. This location is expected to have high food traffic and will be subject to food spills, grease, and general filth and dust.

This is why natural stone is a popular flooring option for outdoor kitchens. Its durability and aesthetics are unparalleled. There are also numerous alternatives to accommodate a variety of design styles. We recommend a high-quality penetrating sealer to retain the stone’s natural patina and reduce the possibility of permanent discoloration.

Looking For Outdoor Kitchen Installers? Let’s Design Your Dream Kitchen

Now that you know which materials are best for outdoor kitchens, it’s time to look for expert outdoor kitchen installation. Outdoor Makeover and Living Spaces’ backyard restoration services are unparalleled. Our services, which include landscaping, hardscape, unique water features, fire pits, and outdoor kitchen installation, will surely leave your space to just Woww. 

So, what are you waiting for? Book your consultation today!

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