Outdoor Kitchen On A Deck: Ideas To Consider

If you’re considering installing an outdoor kitchen on your deck, you’re making a wise decision. Not only will this add value to your home, but it will also make entertaining guests a breeze. 

When it comes to summer, there’s nothing quite like barbecuing and enjoying good food with friends and family outdoors. However, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind when planning this project, so read on for some ideas and tips.

What Are The Best Decking Materials For Outdoor Kitchens?

Deck materials are one of the first things you’ll need to consider when planning your outdoor kitchen project. The material you choose for your decking must be durable and withstand the elements. 

Wood is a combustible material, which can be a safety hazard when cooking outdoors. Although you can safely install an outdoor kitchen on a wooden deck, it’s better to opt for non-combustible materials like composite decking if you haven’t built your deck yet.

Common decking materials:

• Composite Decking: This artificial decking material looks like wood without all the maintenance. Composite decking such as Trex decking is less likely to catch on fire than natural wood, making it a safer choice for an outdoor kitchen on a deck.
• PVC Decking: Another man-made material similar to composite decking made of 100% plastics. It’s very resistant to mold and mildew, so it’s a good choice if you live in an area with high humidity. Like composite decking, PVC is safer than wood as it’s more heat-resistant.
• Wood Decking: Wood decking is a good option if you want a more traditional look for your outdoor kitchen on a deck project. However, you’ll need to take extra precautions to ensure safety as wood is a combustible material.

Know How Much Weight Your Deck Can Handle

Before planning your outdoor kitchen, you need to know how much weight your deck can handle. Although it’s improbable that your deck won’t be able to support your outdoor kitchen, you don’t want to overload your deck and cause it to collapse. 

How much weight your deck can handle depends on its materials, how old it is, and its current condition. If unsure, it’s best to consult a professional before moving forward with your project. Ask your contractor about the load rating of your deck to determine how much weight it can support.

In rare cases, you may have to add extra support beams to your deck to accommodate the weight of an outdoor kitchen and the additional furniture you will add. If your deck is old or wasn’t built with an outdoor kitchen in mind, you may need to reinforce it.

Consider Which Amenities To Include

You’ll need to decide which amenities to include when planning your outdoor kitchen. This largely depends on how you plan to use your outdoor kitchen and your budget. Another factor to consider is the amount of space you have to work with. 

Some outdoor kitchens are simple and only include a grill, while others are much more elaborate and include a sink, fridge, and storage space. 

Keep in mind that if your deck is not attached to your house, it will be placed farther away from your indoor kitchen. In such a case, you’ll likely want a sink and more appliances in your outdoor kitchen, so you’re not constantly running back and forth to the indoor one. However, you’ll also have to factor in additional expenses for running water and electricity to your outdoor kitchen.

Here are some of the most important amenities to consider:

• Grill
• Sink
• Fridge
• Storage space
• Counter space
• Cabinets
• Lighting
• Outdoor furniture
• Outlets

Attached Vs. Freestanding Deck With An Outdoor Kitchen

A freestanding deck is not attached to your house, which means it can stand anywhere in your yard. It’s essential to consider the implications of having an outdoor kitchen on a deck that is attached or detached from your house. 

Attached Outdoor Kitchen Pros:

• You can get away with a smaller kitchen, as you’ll have easy access to your indoor kitchen.
• You can save on utility costs by not having to run water and electricity.
• It will be closer to your indoor kitchen, making it more convenient to use if you lack important amenities.
• It will be easier and cheaper to run water and electricity to it.

Attached Outdoor Kitchen Cons:

• If your deck is not big enough, an attached outdoor kitchen can make it feel cramped.
• Your local building codes may not allow an attached outdoor kitchen.
• You are more limited in terms of design.

Detached Outdoor Kitchen Pros:

• You can have a larger and more elaborate kitchen as you’re not limited by space.
• You’re not as limited by building codes.
• You have more freedom when it comes to design.
• It can create a more intimate and private space.

Detached Outdoor Kitchen Cons:

• It will be more expensive to extend your utility lines.
• Going back and forth between your indoor and outdoor kitchen can be a pain.
• It will be less convenient if you don’t have important amenities or utilities.

Does An Outdoor Kitchen Need To Be Covered?

Another essential factor to consider is whether you need to cover your outdoor kitchen.

In most cases, an outdoor kitchen does not need to be covered. However, there are many benefits to having a covered outdoor kitchen.

One of the most obvious ones is that your guests will be protected from the elements, whether rain, snow, or harsh sunlight. If you live in an area with heavy rains, a cover will let you use it year-round without worrying about the weather. If you’re planning a gathering, there’s nothing worse than having to cancel because of bad weather.

Your appliances will also last longer if they’re protected from the elements. For example, a grill left out in the rain will deteriorate faster than a covered one. Your decking will also last longer if it’s not constantly exposed to the sun and rain.

There are many different options available to cover your outdoor kitchen. If your deck is not attached to your house, you can build a freestanding structure such as a pavilion or gazebo. If your deck is attached, a pergola is a good option.

When opting for a covered outdoor kitchen, make that your outdoor kitchen is well-ventilated so that smoke and fumes can escape.

Final Thoughts

Building an outdoor kitchen on your deck is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while still being able to cook and entertain. Keep the following factors in mind when planning:

• The size and layout of your deck.
• The decking material.
• The type of appliances and amenities you want.
• The utilities that you will need to run to it.
• The climate where you live.
• Whether you want an attached or detached outdoor kitchen.
• Whether you need to cover it.

By taking the time to plan ahead, you can create an outdoor kitchen that’s perfect for your deck and home.