Four Critical Answers You Need Before Adding a backyard Kitchen
Does your backyard need more entertainment space? Would you envy those lucky people on diy shows who add stunning outdoor spaces with grills, sinks and refrigerators? Remodel which will you're thinking about hiring a contractor to transform your outdoor space into something marvelous.
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If so, ask yourself these four important questions even before you start looking.
1. What's your allowance for this project?
The high-end outdoor kitchens the truth is on home & garden shows can cost up to $50,000 for that granite counters, an entire set of appliances, a tv, and those plush dining sets. When you can live without some of those amenities, you may be able to cut your budget right down to as low as $5,000. Don't fool yourself into thinking you will have a stainless grill, a practical sink, and a shady patio cover less than that. Good construction and quality components don't come cheap. Plan accordingly.
2. Are you going to spend every weekend on your new patio?
To have the most out of your investment, you ought to plan to make full use of your new outdoor space on a frequent basis. Many people who extend their home outside for more than cooking and eating can justify spending more on the renovation. Remember that adding an outdoor kitchen won't put in a lot of value to your residence. So don't expect to extract the cost when you sell.
3. Do you want to duplicate your kitchen or simply make grilling easier?
You possibly will not need a refrigerator or working sink if you simply want an attractive patio pay for your big grill. Yet, if your new outdoor entertainment venue is a few distance from the house or provides many people on a regular basis, you might like to include a direct gas line, water supply, and mini-refrigerator, with ample counter space. Consider how often you expect to use the room, and for what purpose, before you start designing.
4. Can be your backyard big enough for which you want?
If you have a substantial covered patio that could be converted to an outdoor kitchen, you will put away a lot of money. Some newer homes are built with the water, gas, and power lines needed for this type of addition, most are not. Installing a concrete or tile floor and adding a pergola patio cover will require a big bite from the budget. Construction costs should be balanced with the price of the amenities you believe you need.
Even if you lack all the answers, it's good to find a qualified construction contractor with a reputation and plenty of experience with the type of outdoor kitchen you desire. "Designing the right outdoor space will be as important as quality components and construction," says John Bryant of Pergola Partners in Mansfield, Texas. "We would rather consult with our clients in the planning stages so there are fewer surprises when the job begins.
Focusing on how much you can spend, how to use the space, along with what essential features you will need will help your contractor execute a better job. And that goes a long way toward realizing the outdoor kitchen you've always dreamt of.