What to Consider Before Building an Outdoor Kitchen

April 28

Nothing is more precious than spending quality time with your family and friends. If you wish to create an entertainment haven in your household, then a stylish backyard kitchen is what your San Diego, CA, home needs.  However, since it’s a costly and ambitious venture, you need to take your time and think carefully about many aspects. You probably wonder about the right size, if you need ventilation, and how to install it. What about a cover? Is it necessary or not? Professionals from a renowned landscaping company answer these questions for you today. Keep reading to find out more!

What is a common-size outdoor kitchen?

There’s no universal answer regarding the size of your future outdoor kitchen. Before making the final decision, you need to consider your needs, desires, and available space. How many people and how often will you host? Do you have a spacious backyard with a lot of room for your project, or do you just have enough space to squeeze in the tiniest possible kitchen? An outdoor kitchen can cover an area from 100 square feet (small) to 400 square feet (large). This means that at least 10 feet of linear space are required to accommodate basic amenities, including a counter for food preparation and serving, a sink, and a grill.  Since this project requires thorough planning, it’s highly recommended to consult professionals. They’ll give you suggestions that suit your preferences, budget, and available space best.

How much ventilation is needed for an outdoor kitchen?

Proper ventilation is an essential aspect of your outdoor kitchen, as it prevents smoke and fume buildup, which can be dangerous, especially if your installation is under a flammable, covered area. How much ventilation you need depends on your kitchen’s shape and size. You also need to consider what appliances there are and how much heat they produce.

Size

A grill vent hood should be at least 6 inches wider than the grill. This means that if you have a 36-inch grill, you should integrate a 42-inch grill to ensure adequate ventilation.

CFM

You can easily calculate the minimum CFM if you know the BTUs of your appliances. You just need to divide the total BTUs by 100. For instance, if your gas grill generates 120,000 BTUs, you need a 1200 CFM hood.

Final note

Since this question requires a certain amount of expertise, seeking professional help is essential. Experts will have answers to all your doubts and ensure appropriate ventilation and your outdoor kitchen’s efficiency and safety.

Do outdoor kitchens need to be under cover?

Your outdoor kitchen doesn’t necessarily need to be covered. However, investing in a high-quality cover is advisable. Not only does it enable you to host a party on a rainy day, but this actually protects your belongings from the elements. Constant exposure to sun, rain, or wind can accelerate the wear and tear and damage your stylish appliances and furniture. So installing an adequate cover expands your outdoor kitchen’s lifespan significantly. It’ll also enable you to maintain a steady cooking temperature as well as prevent food contamination. Outdoor kitchen covers include a gazebo, a pergola, or a firm roof construction. Your choice mainly depends on your kitchen’s location, aesthetic desires, and budget. Licensed professionals’ assistance is vital in this regard too. They’ll design and construct a stable structure that can endure local weather and meet local building regulations. 

How much ventilation is needed for an outdoor kitchenWhere can I find reliable professionals to build a backyard kitchen in San Diego, CA?

Do you need experts to make a trendy outdoor kitchen or install a functional barbeque island in your backyard in Kensington or elsewhere in San Diego? Pacific Dreamscapes is the hardscaping company you need. With years of experience, our professionals can easily understand your requirements and preferences. They’ll help you create a perfect harbor of fun and joy that can increase the value of your property. Don’t hesitate to reach out and let your dreams come true!