Families across America love to spend time outdoors. Adding a kitchen to an outdoor living space allows families to spend even more time outside. An outdoor kitchen can be convenient for family get-togethers or a quiet night alone. Outdoor kitchens can be custom made or be pre-made to fit a variety of situations. Pre-made kitchens are usually less expensive and simpler for homeowners to install themselves. Keep reading for the options and details for having a pre-made outdoor kitchen installed this summer.

Different Types of Kits

Before discussing how to install a pre-made outdoor kitchen, discussing the different types of kitchens available will be essential. A prefabricated kit is made and constructed in a factory and then shipped to a home. This can be convenient, but sometimes the components can be complicated to install because the units are so large. They do not usually come with appliances, and many kits are damaged during shipping. An advantage to prefabricated kitchen kits is that they are standard factory-made and delivered quickly.

A modular outdoor kitchen kit is a prefabricated kit made in a factory. Modular kits arrive at the home in smaller pieces. The homeowner can then decide which layout they want to create. Usually, these modules are stainless steel, polymer, or aluminum.

Ready-to-finish outdoor kitchen kits are easier to install than building a custom kitchen from scratch, but homeowners may still need to hire a contractor to finish parts of the job. These kits are prefabricated galvanized steel or aluminum frames. Often, there are cutouts for appliances. These kits need tile, brick, or stucco to finish.

Ready to assemble outdoor kitchen kits are convenient and fast. These kits come pre-finished but arrive in panels that need some assembly. Homeowners can purchase them without appliances or bundled with appliances. They fall in between custom kitchens and pre-fab kitchens. They usually cost more than modular kitchens because they have higher-quality materials.

Receiving the Kit

The amount of installation and assembly varies depending on what type of outdoor kit homeowners choose. However, in most cases, the components come packed flat. Homeowners should check the boxes carefully to ensure all the required parts are included. Before homeowners begin assembling the kitchen, they need to decide where to place the outdoor kitchen. Sometimes, several layouts are possible. Some brands come with locking caster wheels, but it is essential to determine where things will go in the end.

Assembling the Kitchen

Homeowners should read the manual carefully before beginning assembly. Usually, homeowners will need a screwdriver and drill bits to assemble any pre-fab kits. Additional hardware will be included with the packaging if needed for bolting panels together.

Homeowners will put the frame together first, followed by the appliances, doors, and drawers. They will put the countertop on next. If the kitchen has a gas grill, a plumber needs to make the gas connection. Some homeowners think that they can do this themselves, but due to the safety hazard and the possibility of voiding warranties, a professional should complete this step.

Homeowners who do not want to spend a lot of time planning but want to start using an outdoor kitchen quickly should consider a pre-made outdoor kitchen. There are many options available for any budget. Homeowners can order, build, and enjoy spending more time outside with family and friends.