Outdoor kitchens are functional, stylish, and convenient. Whether you plan to throw a party or just want to frequently lounge around in your outdoor space, having an outdoor kitchen will make your life easier. Paired with the right outdoor dining furniture, the proper kitchen cabinets can easily turn your backyard from an empty space to an entertainment area where you can spend most of your summer days relaxing. The model you pick can add a pop of colour or complement the landscape. The options are truly endless. However, to make the most out of your purchase, there are few things to consider first.
Material
The ultimate outdoor kitchen for your backyard should feature cabinets made from a material that can withstand exposure to all weather elements. Stainless steel has proven to be a very practical material for both sink storage units and drawer storage. A stainless steel outdoor kitchen cabinet is durable, waterproof and easily matches your grill. Boasting a wealth of perks, stainless steel is the top choice of designers when it comes to exterior kitchen cabinetry and appliances. It is an environmentally-friendly material that is durable and can withstand even the harshest climates – from winter snowstorms to salty ocean air to summer heat. Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion and has an assortment of textures and patterns for a designer look.
Wood is not quite as durable as stainless steel, but certain types of woods might be suited for outdoor kitchens. Teak, cypress, bamboo and ipe are usually the top choices for this purpose. Cabinets made from them will give a warm appearance to your outdoor kitchen, and you can get beautiful visual details from the wood grain. However, have in mind that wooden cabinetry is prone to fading over time and it can either warp, crack or swell when exposed to the elements. Not to mention that quality wood cabinets tend to be very pricey. Cabinets made from teak wood are constantly among the most expensive options.
Design
Choosing the outdoor kitchen storage design should come with the same amount of consideration as when buying an outdoor dining set. You need to make sure that the model you choose is not only made of high-quality material but that it also complements your outdoor space and has that wow-factor. It should match your accessories and outdoor appliances. Outdoor kitchen cabinets should be fully enclosed to protect the items inside them from accumulating dirt and insects. Opt for designs that are not only stylish but also practical.
Stainless steel module cabinets that come with a sink might be a great choice for you. Designed to be used on their own or with other modules, this cabinet offers lots of storage space. You can opt for a model that features sleek integrated handles with two doors and three storage shelves internally to keep your BBQ supplies neat and tidy. Some models feature lockable castor wheels for easy moving. Outdoor cabinets with drawers are also practical designs that come in handy for storing kitchen supplies. Finish choices include a broad array of powder-coated colours, toughened black glass doors, textures and customisable details to suit any taste and door or drawer style.
Maintainance
Cleaning your counterparts will keep your kitchen sanitary and ensure that your counters will last longer. Stainless steel surfaces require little maintenance and are very easy to clean. Routine cleaning should involve rinsing away dirt and debris. You can do this by gently wiping the surface with a damp, non-abrasive cloth or sponge using warm water. If you live in a coastal area or your cabinets are next to a chlorine pool, it might be a good idea to clean the cabinets at least every two weeks to keep them in prime condition. Outside of coastal areas, cleaning the cabinets every two months might suffice. Alkaline, alkaline-chlorinated or non-chloride cleaners are recommended for cleaning stainless steel surfaces.
Wood kitchen cabinets are a little more sensitive when exposed to the elements and require a lot of maintenance to retain their fresh look. Before applying any cleaning agents or other chemicals to your wood cabinet, make sure to check the manufacturer’s specs. Wood cabinets should be oiled regularly to moisturise, safeguard, and waterproof the wood against the harsh elements. You may also need to refinish or repaint them once in a while.
Do Outdoor Kitchens Add Value to Your Home?
There are a lot of things that add value to a house in Australia and outdoor kitchens are on top of that list. Outdoor living, social lifestyles and entertaining are what inspires homeowners to create functional outdoor spaces in their homes. A well-designed outdoor kitchen can be a cost-effective way to increase the value of your home. However, you working your magic on the barbecue, entertaining your friends while sipping on an ice-cold beer might be the greatest value of all.
