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

Do you need planning permission for an outdoor kitchen?

Accepted Answer

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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 2

What is the best material to frame an outdoor kitchen?

Accepted Answer

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A few materials are most commonly used when it comes to building a frame for an outdoor kitchen: wood, steel, and concrete or brick. While there’s no best option overall, each material is better suited to different needs. Concrete and brick are typically more customizable than other options, but aren’t as resistant to inclement weather as steel. Wood is the most affordable pick, but it is more susceptible to rot, mildew, and heat than the others.

Question 3

How do I maintain an outdoor kitchen?

Accepted Answer

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Cover appliances, clean surfaces regularly, and winterize plumbing before freezing temperatures.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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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.

Question 5

How does an outdoor kitchen sink drain?

Accepted Answer

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You can choose a few different options for outdoor kitchen sink drainage. You can install a dry well about 10 feet away from your home or patio or install a French drain closer by. You can also drain into your home’s plumbing system, but it is more costly versus using a dry well.