Once you decide to add value to your home with an outdoor kitchen, construction can get expensive and out of hand if you’re not careful. You can just visit any showroom and look at the price tags of the basic appliances to get an idea how expensive this could be.

But that is the first thing you should do before you start getting any quotes for outdoor kitchen construction jobs. Looking at what’s out there and what things cost will give you an idea of what you want and how much budget you need to allow for this project.

Price out the various elements of the outdoor kitchen you have in mind and don’t forget the detail things like hardware, light fixtures, etc. It’s those small, but so important, things that can add up and eat up a budget!

Once you have this list, then it’s time to start calling contractors that specialize in outdoor kitchen construction and call one or two that are general contractors that do it all. Your list will give them an idea of what you’re looking for and expecting from your new addition.

Appliances

For a fully functioning outdoor kitchen, construction needs to include more than just a great grill. Look into your future and think how an outdoor oven would benefit your family. If you want an oven, do you want electric or gas? Maybe a pizza oven is more your family’s style of living?

You may not think you’ll ever use one, but a side burner has proven to be a beneficial addition to any outdoor kitchen construction project. The most popular is a built-in to the side of the grill, not integrated into the grill.

Location, Location, Location

For every homeowner, the “right” spot for the outdoor kitchen is different. Some people like to have their barbecuing area right outside their home’s kitchen, even connected, and others want their outdoor kitchen construction to be closer to the pool and freestanding. There is not a right or wrong place to place your outdoor kitchen.

If you decide to go with an outdoor kitchen constructed close-to-the-house, the most comfortable location year-round is against the north-facing wall. And, if you are going to have the cooking area under the overhang of the roof or porch, put it toward the end so that the odors and smoke don’t flood the house.