Get matched with top outdoor kitchen pros in Wheaton, MO

In most cases, yes, an outdoor living space adds value to your home. The trick to your best return on investment is to choose high-quality building materials that will look nice and durable without crossing the line into total luxury that becomes cost-ineffective. For example, there’s no need to install marble tiles around your pool, but a durable and aesthetically pleasing deck will go a long way.

The best height for a pizza oven is one that allows the user to easily see what’s going on inside and comfortably place pies without having to crouch over. In general, that means the opening should be between 36 and 48 inches off the ground. By contrast, the height of the dome is totally up to your preference, because different heights create different results. Shorter domes are better for creating Neapolitan-style pies, whereas taller domes are ideal for NY-style recipes.

Built-in gas grills typically have a life span of 10 to 15 years. However, their longevity can vary based on quality, usage frequency, climate conditions, and maintenance routines. High-quality models made from durable materials tend to last longer. Additionally, regular cleaning, covering the grill when not in use, and conducting routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning burners and replacing worn-out parts can extend its life. A well-maintained built-in gas grill can provide excellent performance and memorable cooking experiences for a decade or more, making it a worthwhile investment for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

A fireplace is, by definition, an enclosed space where you burn wood or other fuel for the purpose of generating light and heat. A firepit burns wood and is much less expensive to build, but they aren’t technically a fireplace as it isn’t enclosed. An outdoor oven—commonly outdoor brick pizza ovens—often uses wood as fuel, but its primary purpose is to cook food, and you’d rarely just burn wood inside them for warmth or aesthetic reasons.