Q: What do you call a second kitchen?

• <div><p>You can call a second kitchen many different names&mdash;butler&rsquo;s pantry, scullery, prep kitchen, working kitchen, dirty kitchen, or even just second kitchen. In modern times, however, second kitchens are almost always called prep kitchens or small kitchens. However, the purpose of a second kitchen remains the same&mdash;prepare food and clean items &ldquo;behind closed doors.&rdquo;</p></div>

Q: Can I build my own outdoor kitchen?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s possible to build your own outdoor kitchen, with the exception of installing utility lines, but it&rsquo;s usually better to leave the work to a construction professional. If you want to DIY it, opt for an outdoor kitchen kit. For permanent kitchens and more in-depth designs, hiring an expert will ensure every aspect is high-quality and professional, the proper permits are pulled, and everything works safely. Professionals can also help design your kitchen to make the most out of your space, so it&rsquo;s well worth the investment.</p></div>

Q: Do I need to know exactly what I want before hiring an outdoor kitchen contractor?

• <div><p>No, even if you have a vague idea of what you want, it&rsquo;s a good idea to reach out to a contractor that specializes in outdoor kitchens for assistance. Professionals who have constructed kitchens for other homeowners can not only help you think about the functionality and convenience of your outdoor space&mdash;which many homeowners neglect&mdash;but they can also help you choose high-quality, durable materials that meet your budget and match the rest of your outdoor space. In fact, it&rsquo;s often better to contact a contractor and get the ball rolling before you have a solidified plan for your outdoor kitchen.</p></div>

Question 1

Can you put a built-in grill against the house?

Accepted Answer

•

No. Placing a built-in grill against the house is discouraged due to safety concerns. Building codes and regulations often require a minimum distance (typically 10 feet or more) between a gas grill and any combustible structure, including a house. Placing a grill too close poses a fire hazard and risks damage to the siding or structure, potentially leading to carbon monoxide buildup. It's essential to consult local building codes, follow manufacturer guidelines, and prioritize safety by positioning the grill at a safe distance, ideally in a well-ventilated outdoor kitchen or designated grill area.

Question 2

What do you call a second kitchen?

Accepted Answer

•

You can call a second kitchen many different names—butler’s pantry, scullery, prep kitchen, working kitchen, dirty kitchen, or even just second kitchen. In modern times, however, second kitchens are almost always called prep kitchens or small kitchens. However, the purpose of a second kitchen remains the same—prepare food and clean items “behind closed doors.”

Question 3

Can I build my own outdoor kitchen?

Accepted Answer

•

It’s possible to build your own outdoor kitchen, with the exception of installing utility lines, but it’s usually better to leave the work to a construction professional. If you want to DIY it, opt for an outdoor kitchen kit. For permanent kitchens and more in-depth designs, hiring an expert will ensure every aspect is high-quality and professional, the proper permits are pulled, and everything works safely. Professionals can also help design your kitchen to make the most out of your space, so it’s well worth the investment.

Question 4

Do you need planning permission for an outdoor kitchen?

Accepted Answer

•

In many cases, you will not need permits to install an outdoor kitchen because it’s not usually considered a permanent structure and doesn’t require a foundation. If you run natural gas lines to a grill, plumbing lines to an outdoor sink, or electrical lines for lighting and power, your contractor will likely need to pull permits.

However, every municipality is different, so you should defer to a professional outdoor kitchen contractor to confirm which portions of your outdoor kitchen project require building permits.

Question 5

Do I need to know exactly what I want before hiring an outdoor kitchen contractor?

Accepted Answer

•

No, even if you have a vague idea of what you want, it’s a good idea to reach out to a contractor that specializes in outdoor kitchens for assistance. Professionals who have constructed kitchens for other homeowners can not only help you think about the functionality and convenience of your outdoor space—which many homeowners neglect—but they can also help you choose high-quality, durable materials that meet your budget and match the rest of your outdoor space. In fact, it’s often better to contact a contractor and get the ball rolling before you have a solidified plan for your outdoor kitchen.