It's that time of year for fun by the pool, parties on the patio and barbecues with friends and family! Building an outdoor kitchen is a great way to enhance your outdoor living space. However, selecting the right components and the supplier of those components is crucial to ensure longevity, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
Photo credit: Mel Bean Interiors
MATERIALS MATTER
Appliances
When it comes to appliances, we suggest stainless steel all the way. Stainless steel is a popular choice for outdoor appliances due to its durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. It can withstand extreme weather conditions and is relatively easy to maintain. We also recommend you buy appliances that are UL approved for outdoor use.
Cabinetry
For cabinetry, you can either go with a prefabricated option you might find at a big box store or go with a more custom option. Our suggestion - do your homework and put in the research to find the best supplier for the job. This will be crucial for the longevity of your space and will make it all worth the investment.
One important thing to note - don’t use indoor cabinetry outdoors. Standard indoor kitchen cabinets are not designed to withstand outdoor conditions and can quickly deteriorate. It's important to use cabinets specifically built for outdoor use to avoid problems like warping, rust, and mold. Your outdoor kitchen cabinetry must be able to withstand the Oklahoma weather including rain, snow, sun, humidity and extreme temperatures. Mother nature can impact the longevity and appearance of even the best outdoor cabinetry, necessitating repairs or replacements sooner than expected.
OTHER KEY CONSIDERATIONS
Maintenance
Consider how much time and effort you're willing to invest in maintaining your outdoor kitchen cabinets. Stainless steel, for instance, may need periodic cleaning to prevent rust and corrosion. And while outdoor kitchen cabinets are designed to withstand the elements, they still require regular maintenance to keep them in top condition.
Photo credit: Home Innovations
Installation
The installation process for outdoor cabinetry can be complex, often requiring professional assistance to ensure stability and proper fitting. Poor installation can lead to issues such as instability and water damage, so it’s crucial to have experienced professionals handle the job.
Planning
Proper planning is essential to ensure your outdoor kitchen is functional and durable. Consider factors such as the placement of appliances, storage needs, and workflow to create an efficient cooking space.
Photo credit: Kirkendall Design
Your Budget
While it might be tempting to cut costs by opting for cheaper materials or prefabricated options, this can lead to higher expenses in the long run due to maintenance and replacement costs. Investing in high-quality, durable cabinetry from the beginning can save money and hassle over time.
Should you use Sullivan’s for your outdoor kitchen cabinetry?
It might surprise you, but the answer to this question is no. Clear and simple, we’re just not your source for outdoor cabinetry. For over 40 years, we’ve specialized in custom cabinetry for the inside of your home. Although we’ve done the occasional project here and there, outdoor cabinetry is its own niche and we would highly advise our customers to seek an alternative supplier that specializes in outdoor spaces in order to maximize the longevity and durability of their outdoor living space.
Got an indoor :) project? We can help! Give our design team a call today.
Photo credit: Duvall Atelier