An outdoor kitchen in your Burlington home is perfect for the summer time. There are many options when it comes to outdoor kitchens. You have to take your lifestyle and budget into consideration when selecting an outdoor kitchen. But first, here are some things to consider:

Your Lifestyle

Before you start designing your outdoor kitchen, you should consider your lifestyle. There are also a few lifestyle questions that you should answer. What is the climate like in your area? Do you have outdoor gatherings regularly? Will you be using your indoor kitchen to prepare food that will be prepared outside.

If you have a lot of outdoor gatherings and will be preparing food outdoors, then you may need a bigger space. You will also need storage space, refrigerator, sink and a bar.

Budget

After you have decided how you will use the outdoor kitchen, you will need to think about your budget. Outdoor kitchens typically cost more than $5,000. If you get an outdoor kitchen with a refrigerator and a midlevel barbecue, then you can expect to pay at least $5,000.

Keep in mind that you will probably have to get some work done on an existing patio. This will increase the cost. You may also have to get a new patio. Some custom or elaborate kitchens can cost over $100,000.

One of the things that you can do to reduce the cost of the kitchen is to put it close to your house. If you put the outdoor kitchen close to your house, then you will not have to pay as much for pulling water, electrical or gas lines.

DIY Or Hire A Professional

Many homeowners want to design their own outdoor kitchen. However, projects typically require a professional. This is especially true if water, gas and electrical lines needs to be moved.

Permits

Every city has their own permit requirements. Some cities require that the kitchen be a certain distance from the property. Others do not have any installation rules.

Timetable

The amount of time that it takes to complete an outdoor kitchen is dependent upon the complexity of it. A basic kitchen design can be put together in just one week. However, more complicated projects can take much longer to complete.

Layout

After you have thought about your budget and needs, you will need to establish the layout and location. If you have the money and will be using the kitchen often, then you do not necessarily need to have it close to your house.

You may want to put the dining table and counter or bar seating close to the prep area. However, you want to make sure that the chef has enough room to move around.

Fixtures And Appliances

You should select the appliances and fixtures early because they will determine how long and high your kitchen will be. Refrigerators, pizza ovens, warming drawers and side burners are examples of some of the appliances and fixtures you can put in your kitchen. Pergola lighting is also great for an outdoor kitchen.

Enclosures And Countertops

You need countertops that are built to withstand heat, precipitation and cold. Natural stone is a good option for this. You can use manufactured stone veneer for the enclosure.