If you’re planning on adding an outdoor kitchen to your backyard or garden area, there are certain aspects you need to be aware of before finalizing your plans.  You should carefully consider aspects such as location, design and materials to ensure that your outdoor kitchen is convenient, is fully equipped and can withstand all types of conditions throughout the year.

Where Should You Build Your Outdoor Kitchen?

Placement is very important when you build an outdoor kitchen because you need to ensure that you do not restrict any views, that the placement is convenient for you to use and that you locate the kitchen in an area where the weather is not going to affect it adversely. Ensure you consider all of these things when choosing your location:

• Wind – You can’t control the elements, however you can place your grill accordingly so smoke doesn’t billow into your neighbor’s gardens or disrupt your guests. Smoke will usually blow downwind of the grill so if you can, try and make sure patios or decks upwind of the smoke. In addition, refrain from placing your outdoor kitchen near windows or doors that are downwind because then the smoke will flow inside the house.
• Vision – Place counters in such a way so that every view is taken into account. For example, the main thing you need to think about it is whether your neighbors can see you. You will probably want some privacy when you are working and entertaining in your outdoor kitchen, so consider placing it where hedges or trees block the view to the neighbor’s house.  This will not only benefit you, but your neighbor’s privacy as well. Moreover, you must consider what your guests will be seeing when they are sitting at the counter or table, as well as what view the person has that will be cooking at the grill.
• Keep cool – The outdoor kitchen will be used on many a warm sunny day, but to refrain from getting yourself and the appliances too hot, make sure the area around the kitchen is shaded. The cheapest option is to build the kitchen under the shade of trees, as it will block out the harsh sun to prevent electrical equipment from overheating and will also keep the rays of sun out of your eyes while cooking without it costing you anything extra. If this option doesn’t work for you, or you don’t want to deal with falling leaves or acorns from overhead, then you can always purchase patio umbrellas which can provide some shade near the cooking areas and also by outdoor dining room sets, or you can build a covering or trellis overhead.   You can also install a rollup awning for coverage.
• Stay close to your house – Having a kitchen area in close proximity to your indoor kitchen is a good idea because then you only have a short distance to walk if you need additional supplies. Moreover, you will still need to store and prep the majority of the food indoors, so it makes sense to build the outdoor area near the back entrance to your home. Also, you will most likely have electric and gas lines located near the home, which is vital in order for your outdoor kitchen to run.  Not having to run these lines too far from the house will limit your installation costs.

Outdoor Kitchen Design

The design of your outdoor kitchen is pretty much up to you.  However, there are three main layouts that you may want to consider adopting for your backyard kitchen.

• Basic – This style is best suited for people that will be using the outdoor kitchen on an occasional basis rather than more regularly. It features a grill, a sink and a counter used for prepping food, as well as a small storage space.  This design leaves out many extras but is also usually the most affordable.
• L-shaped – This layout consists of two separate units. The base of the ‘L’ shape will contain the grill along with the storage compartments, whereas the other counter will provide a preparation area as well as a small space for dining. You will be able to place stools underneath this counter to allow people to sit at the counter for dining and entertaining purposes.
• U-shaped – This style is the most popular among those that intend to use the kitchen on a regular basis. It provides a larger dining space for a number of guests, as well as all the necessary areas for the grill, the prepping station, storage compartments and any other extras you desire. It is also the most convenient, as the chef can place all of the cooked food straight onto the dining area.

Using the Right Materials In Your Outdoor Kitchen

One of the major things you need to consider is the types of materials you are going to use to construct your outdoor kitchen. You want to make sure you have materials that are made to withstand food use in order to ensure that food will not be contaminated. Moreover, if you choose the right materials, then you can prevent too much wear and tear or corrosion throughout the year so you want to make sure the materials withstand outdoor use as well.

When it comes to outdoor kitchen materials, consider these points:

• Ensure it’s easily manageable – There is nothing more frustrating than having to clean a surface that requires a lot of work, so make sure you use stainless steel on your units and grill. It is the most sanitary material and it is very easy to clean.  It also maintains its condition well even in various types of weather.
• Install counters that can handle the heat – Despite shading your kitchen, it will at some point be in direct sunlight, which on a very hot day, can heat up surfaces very quickly. Make sure you find heat durable materials.  You also want to make sure that any materials near grills or other cooking surfaces are heat resistant.
• Consider natural stone – Installing stone counters may be the best way to go, as they are easy to clean as well as looking stylish. However, keep in mind that they may need to be sealed on a regular basis, especially since they are outdoors.
• Be aware of grease – We all know that cooked meat straight off the grill is accompanied by unsightly grease stains so make sure that any of the furniture you locate near the outdoor kitchen contains materials that don’t stain.  This is especially important for any patio cushions, stool cushions or other materials on your outdoor dining chairs.

Additional Items To Consider For Outdoor Kitchens

If you’re hoping to get a lot of use out of your new outdoor kitchen, then you will probably want to consider adding some extra goodies to give the outdoor space the right ambiance and design. If you’re aiming to throw a lot of parties, then music is a necessity for creating a fun and social atmosphere.  You may also want to consider amenities such as lighting and other forms of entertainment.

• Music – There are a number of types of outdoor sound systems that you can incorporate into your outside space which can be installed so that loose wires aren’t in view and the speakers are nearly hidden. Make sure you make your decision before the outdoor kitchen is installed so you can incorporate the speaker setup into the overall outdoor kitchen design.
• TV – You can also incorporate television sets and screens into your outdoor area if the electrical wiring allows it. However, ensure that you place the screens in an area that will not encounter direct sunlight or rain, otherwise they could overheat and become damaged and it may be difficult to see the screen.
• Lighting – If you’re planning on using your outdoor kitchen in the evening, then having the correct lighting is vital in setting the perfect atmosphere. Consider low lighting around the dining area; however you will need a brighter light by the grill. The types of outside lighting you can use are endless, however a good idea is to purchase solar lamps that can soak up the energy throughout the day and then light up in the evening. This will save you in energy costs and from having to install additional electrical wiring, while still creating a comfortable and ambient dining experience for you and your guests.

This post was contributed by Katie, a marketing coordinator at Food Service Warehouse - a restaurant equipment and supplies web store.

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3. A Stainless Steel Splashback In Your Outdoor Kitchen?

Stainless steel splashbacks are a durable and eye-catching way to protect the walls of a kitchen between the floor and wall cabinets.  They are strong, heat resistant, moisture resistant and very attractive.  While you may not need any type of splashback in your outdoor kitchen due to its design, a stainless steel splashback can really turn a simple grill and outdoor kitchen sink into a masterpiece.  By adding a stainless steel kitchen splashback behind the grill and work surface, you can make your outdoor kitchen look like it just came out of a magazine.

Now, every outdoor kitchen won’t be able to accommodate a stainless steel splashback because there may not be a wall or partial wall behind the cooking and counter areas.  But if you do have a vertical surface area behind those areas, a splashback of stainless steel can be the perfect choice.  Stainless steel not only looks great, but it is durable, weather resistant, moisture resistant and able to withstand all types of outdoor kitchen conditions.  Just like many sinks are made from stainless steel for their durability, you can rest assured that splashbacks made from stainless steel will hold up well for outdoor use.

In addition to stainless steel backsplashes looking good and making your outdoor kitchen look like it’s owned by a gourmet chef, you will also find that the surface is easy to clean.  Cleaning a stainless steel splashback simply requires wiping it down on occasion with a soft lint-free cloth and some cleaner made especially for stainless steel surfaces.  One thing you may find is that if your outdoor stainless steel splashback is not covered overhead, there may be lots of water marks that accumulate on the surface.  While these can be annoying, they are easily removed with the stainless steel cleaner and a soft cloth.

There are many designs of stainless steel splashbacks to choose from for your outdoor kitchen.  There is, of course, the traditional look of smooth, shiny stainless steel.  You can also get splashbacks in stainless steel material that have decorative patterns to them, as well as different finishes.  There’s a wide variety of design options available when it comes to stainless steel splashbacks, so you should have no problem finding a style that suits your purposes – and style – well.

A stainless steel splashback is not the norm in most outdoor kitchens, but by adding an interesting element such as this to yours, you can turn a functional outdoor space into an eye-catching and interesting space that just screams “professional chef”!

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Types of Outdoor Sinks

When it comes to choosing a sink for outdoors, you have quite a lot to choose from.  What type of sink you choose will depend on where you plan on locating the sink and what you will use it for.  Here are some of the most popular types of outdoor sinks:

• Outdoor garden sinks – There’s almost no where that you need access to water more than the garden!  Outdoor garden sinks can provide easy access to water for keeping your flowers looking fresh, cleaning off tools when you are done tinkering in the garden and keeping hands clean after digging in the dirt.
  • Plastic garden sinks – These are very popular because they are inexpensive and lightweight.  They can easily be set up near a shed, along the side of a fence or just about anywhere that water is needed.  They are also inexpensive, too!
  • Outdoor garden sink stations – These come complete with additional space for planting and gardening activities.  Some include a series of shelves and hooks for storing tools and garden necessities, while others have full sink cabinets to store anything you want inside. 
  • Mobile garden sink carts  - Just hook up to a hose and tote these portable garden sinks around anywhere you need them so you have water at a moment’s notice.
• Outdoor kitchen sinks – If you have an outdoor kitchen, one of the main components you need (besides a BBQ of course!) is a sink.  Outdoor kitchen sinks are generally made of stainless steel and can be installed right within the counter of your outdoor kitchen, just as they would be inside the house. Some types of outdoor kitchen sinks include:
  • Single bowl sinks
  • Double bowl sinks
  • Cocktail/bar sinks
  • Undermount sinks
  • Top mount/drop in sinks
  • Apron sinks
• Outdoor portable sinks – If you have an garden hose, you can hook up an outdoor portable sink.  These are self-contained sink units that are on wheels and can be moved all around your backyard or garden.  The sink can be contained within a cabinet or can be supported by a series of supports and shelves.  Installation only requires you hook up a garden hose to the sink and then it’s ready to use.  For those that enjoy camping, you can even buy small portable sinks to take with you on your next camping trip!
• Outdoor utility sinks – Have large messes to clean outside?  Outdoor utility sinks and laundry sinks may fit the bill!  Most utility sinks are made of materials that can withstand outside use and provide great functionality outdoors.  Simply select a utility or laundry sink that is sized to fit your needs and install it outside and you’ve got a very functional freestanding outdoor sink!  Most utility sinks are made from heavy duty plastic so they will work perfectly outdoors.  Then you can wash anything you want – hands, tools, pool toys, even the dog!
• Outdoor sink stations – An outdoor sink station is similar to a portable outdoor sink, except it is not necessarily on wheels.  These outdoor sinks come complete with the sink installed into a cart, cabinet or workstation so you get more than just a place to wash your hands – you get a place to do work and store items, whether that is for kitchen use, bar use or gardening use.

Buy outdoor sinks here!

Installing Outdoor Sinks

Installing outdoor sinks is relatively easy to do.  Some types of outdoor sinks can tap right into the outdoor plumbing for your spigot and don’t require major plumbing skills to install.  Portable outdoor sinks simply hook up to a garden hose for their water source and require no installation at all – and they can be moved anywhere you need them, as long as your hose is long enough.  Of course, there are some types of outdoor sinks that will require a plumber to install, since they function just like sinks inside your home.  But the functionality you get from these sinks is usually worth the expense of hiring a professional plumber.

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No matter how you choose to BBQ, there are some basic rules to follow that will help you generate great results.  As long as you pay attention to the basics, you will be free to express yourself in other areas that can make your BBQ different than anyone else’s.

Whether you use a gas grill or a charcoal BBQ, it’s important to treat your equipment well.  So that means giving it a proper cleaning before you do your cooking.  As you have probably seen, the grease and oil build-up on barbeques can be quite intense, especially on charcoal grills.  So, you want to make sure that built up oil and grease doesn’t get onto your current meal and change the flavor of your food.

Heat is the most important element to cooking, so when it comes to barbeque you don’t want things to get out of control.  So always keep a water bottle right beside your grill in case the oil from your food causes flare ups, especially if you’re using a charcoal grill.  And if you’re using coals, also make sure they heat up properly before you start cooking.  A lot of rookies choose to grill the food from the point they light the coals, but that can result in some heavily burnt food, when the coals are flaming but are not evenly heating the food above.

Another point to keep in mind, above all else, is that you should let the grill do the work.  So that means keeping the poking and flipping of the meat to a minimum.  This keeps juices in and results in better cooked and better tasting food.

Good BBQ is all about slow cooking the right foods, while quick grilling is best for smaller cuts of meat.  When you get the right balance, you get great tasting food that is unique to your specific type of barbeque grill and grilling preference.  And by following a few basic tips, you can better ensure that you will get the most from your outdoor BBQs.

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Sometimes you get so wrapped up in whom you are going to invite, getting the table settings looking great, and deciding what food you will be serving, that you simply forget to check how much propane you have left in the tank.  But, it can be very embarrassing to start a cookout and then run out of gas, not to mention the huge hassle of having your food halfway cooked and then not having a way to finish off your meal.  From muttering under your breath to enduring the laughter of family and friends, running out of propane mid-BBQ is definitely not the situation you want to be in.  Nothing ruins a barbecue like having to get in your car and drive around to town to get a full tank of propane so everyone can eat.  Trust me, I speak from experience – it’s the perfect way to mess up an otherwise  fun-filled afternoon or evening.

So what to do?  How do you avoid this embarrassing and inconvenient occurrence?  One of the best investments I made was to get a propane gauge and level indicator.  I simply went online and bought one.  This has made it easier to see how much propane gas is left in the tank so I can know when I’m running low on fuel.  You can buy a propane gauge for about $20 and it’s very simple to install.  You screw one end of the propane gauge into the propane tank and the other end goes into the gas line to your grill.  There is a glass on the gauge that will tell you how much propane is left in your tank.  Propane tank gauges give you the most accurate reading after they have been used for awhile rather than when you first turn the grill on.  So, when you turn your gas off, make a mental note of how much propane you have left before the next time you fire the grill up.

While looking to exchange or fill your propane tank, don’t forget to first compare propane gas prices.  No need to go driving all over town looking to save a few cents, especially if you have guests waiting at home for a meal.  Just make a note of your propane supplier’s price and those in the local area, or call ahead for the prices at a tank exchange center you see at some of the big retailers when you know you’re starting to get low on propane, so you’ll know the best place to go when you need to refuel.   After all, it’s nice to save a bit of money when it doesn’t require much more effort, isn’t it?

While your propane tank may not be the most exciting part of your backyard BBQ, there is no doubt that it is one of the most important, because without enough propane gas in the tank to cook your food, there really is no BBQ at all.  So, to save yourself the hassles and embarrassment that can go along with running out of propane, be sure to buy a cheap propane gauge so you’ll be able to keep track of when you need to refill or exchange your propane tank.  And by checking propane gas prices before you head out to buy more, you may be able to save yourself enough to buy an extra cold beer or two to enjoy with your meal.

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Outdoor kitchens bring many benefits to homeowners.   For example, they are very popular in California because the weather in Southern California is amazing just about every day of the year, and having a kitchen outdoors allows people to enjoy that incredible weather.  If you want to build selling power into your home, you should consider adding an outdoor kitchen to it as an added feature.  Building a kitchen outside does not guarantee increased equity in the housing market due to the current state of the market, but nevertheless, an outdoor kitchen in your backyard will build value in one way or an other.

If you decide you’re going to build an outside kitchen in your home, you want to be sure to get a few different estimates from outdoor kitchen designers first.  There are companies that specialize in custom home additions like this, and by getting a few estimates you will not only be able to compare prices, but will also get some different ideas from different designers so you can determine what outdoor kitchen features you like best.

Expect to pay about $5,000 for the most basic outdoor kitchen set-up, and upwards of $60,000 or more for a high end outdoor kitchen.  The sky is the limit when it comes to what you can choose to put in your kitchen, even though it is situated outside your home. You can really get creative depending on what your budget is.

Be sure that the designers check with the town or city you live in to find out about all necessary building codes and zoning laws.  Many cities have certain requirements as to what justifies an addition of square footage to your home.  Electrical and plumping play a big role in this.

The nice thing about adding an outdoor kitchen to your home, besides being able to be outside all the time, is the fact that you’re not constantly going in and out of the house for supplies and to do prep work when guests are over.  An outdoor kitchen can be set up as a completely functioning kitchen, and if you decide to have guests over for a dinner party, there really is no need to go in the house other than to use the bathroom.   This means you can be less stressed out because you don’t have to worry about people walking in and out of the house all the time and you’re able to entertain in one amazing central location.

You will find that outdoor kitchens make it an enjoyable experience to cook as well.  There is nothing like being able to use your outdoor kitchen grill, the stove, and oven all at the same time to put together a great meal for everyone, while still being able to relax outdoors in the fresh air, feeling the gentle breeze on your neck as you work to prepare a sumptuous meal. Or to be able to simply pop open your outdoor refrigerator to grab a cool drink or a platter of fruit, without having to dry off after a dip in the pool to head indoors.

When planning outdoor kitchen design, be sure to do some researching online, in your local bookstores, and by looking through magazines to figure out exactly what is going to work best for you.  Stop into stores that carry appliances and accessories for outdoor kitchens to see what they have to offer and get a few design ideas in the process.  You should take your time with the overall design and make it functional and fun – after all, building an outdoor kitchen can be as big a project as building an indoor kitchen, without some of the constraints imposed by interior design.

When it comes to summer fun, there is no doubt about it, outdoor kitchens are a great idea for homeowners around the country, and most especially in locations that enjoy great weather all year round.

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Charcoal Grills

A simple charcoal grill is the easiest way to get into grilling.  These grills are often simple and easy-to-use, and models can be found for a very cheap price.  They utilize charcoal briquettes to produce the heat for cooking.  There’s something to be said for food cooked over charcoal briquettes, and some barbecue enthusiasts insist that there is no other grilling like that which is done on a charcoal grill.  Food seems to take on a taste of its own when cooked over charcoal.  Portable charcoal grills can be taken with you wherever you go, whether you are looking to have a picnic in the park, on the beach, or on vacation.  However, there are some drawbacks to the charcoal grill.  The heat on these grills is often times uneven and can be hard to regulate.  It is also a pain to clean a charcoal grill when you are done cooking.

Gas Grills

Another popular option is the traditional gas grill.  Most of these are mid-priced grills, but they can also be found in very nice stainless steel models that can get rather pricey.  Gas grills can be quite easy to cook on because of their constant temperature.  Also, most gas grills will have at least two burners, allowing you to have a hot side and a cold side when cooking.  Cleaning gas grills is also relatively easy.  Some will complain, however, that cooking on a gas grill does not impart the same taste to the food that a charcoal grill does.

Infrared Grills

Finally, infrared grills have become more and more popular over the last several years.  The benefit of an infrared grill is the extreme temperatures you are able to achieve.  These grills will get much hotter than a traditional gas grill or a charcoal grill.  These extreme temperatures allow you to cook a steak that is similar to what you would receive in a fine steakhouse.  The intensity of the heat offered by an infrared grill sears the outside of the meat and locks in juices.  The main drawback with infrared grills is the fact that they are still quite expensive.

With so many types of grills available to consumers these days, it is easy for everyone to find the type of grill that is right for them.  There are barbecue grills to fit every budget, every size family, and every “grilling philosophy”, whether you are a barbecue traditionalist that only believes in the value of some fiery charcoal briquets searing your food, or you are interested in some of the newer grilling technology, such as infrared grills, or you simply like to stick to the standard in many homes, the gas grill.  No matter what type of grill you decide on, having a grill in your backyard is a “must-have” for just about everyone, ’cause nothing tastes better than food cooked outdoors on a barbecue grill.

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There are many options in design when it comes to a built in grill, and what the built in bbq looks like and the functionality it includes is basically all up to you.  While some built in bbq grills can include just a simple bar on one side with a grill attached, others can be a more expansive built in area with the grill situated in the center, allowing for extra space on either side of the grill to accommodate the food you are grilling, as well as the food preparation.

The bar design is probably the simplest of built in bbq grill designs, since it simply includes a grill that is housed alongside a bar like area or countertop.  But, this design is often sufficient for many homeowners and offers a good look as well as adequate food are prep space surrounding the grill.  Some types of bar design include a stationary bar with a slot to roll a grill into that can be more portable.  The space is usually for smaller models of grills, but you can also build the same type of design to house larger bbq grills.

To start getting an idea for your own stationary bbq work station, it’s a good idea to sketch out what you would like it to look like and figure out the overall size you desire for the grill area.  The size you decide on will be the primary determining factor in built in bbq grill prices.   As you would expect, the larger the grill area, the more expensive it will typically be to build.  Another factor to consider that will be a big factor in your built in grill design, as well as the price, is the material that you would like the area surrounding the grill to be made from.  You can use brick, stone, travertine tiles, or other natural materials, and what you choose will make a big difference in the look of your built in grill area.  It will also affect the price of the built in bbq space.

When determining how large a built in bbq grill you can build, your backyard or the location in which you want to build the grill area will need to be considered.  The space will need to be large enough to fit the grill while also allowing enough room for people to comfortably move around.  You also want to make the built in grill a focal point of your outdoor space when deciding where to situate it, since it will be an attractive addition to your backyard or outdoor kitchen, rather than simply just a functional tool with which to cook food.

There are many more styles and options you can consider when it comes to building a built in bbq grill other than what has been described in this article, but the best thing to do before you get started is to look at samples and photos of other grills you like and then work within the parameters of your own yard, space and budget to get just the style and look of built in grill that you want.  Then, once it is built, you can sit back and enjoy your own backyard as if it was your favorite vacation destination.

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Stainless steel grills also give you a bright and shiny grill to show off to your neighbors and family and they look great on your deck or patio or in your outdoor kitchen.  The very design of the stainless steel exterior protects the grill from a build up of dirt and grime and also protects the grill from the weather, such as rain or snow, that causes moisture buildup.  The stainless steel grill design is not a complete protection against the elements, but it is an edge above the other standard grills that only use a weather resistant paint over bare metal or primer.

In order to keep your stainless steel grill in good shape, however, you need to keep the grill clean and protected by wiping it down when you are done using it or storing it away from the elements.  Caring for your grill is of paramount importance in keeping the grill looking good for a long time.

When caring for a stainless steel bbq, it is wise to use only warm soapy water.  The use of chemicals may damage the outer stainless steel layer and may cause damage to the look of the grill itself if you are not careful.  Using the proper scrub pad will help a lot as well.  Make sure the pad is rated for use on stainless steel material and always go with the grain and not against, to keep the grill shiny and clean without scratching the finish.  This goes for every part of the grill, including the stainless steel barbeque doors, which often get dirtier than most other parts of the grill since they are most commonly and heavily used.  The doors and the handles of a grill are used quite often, especially if they are part of the main lid or the doors keeping the tank hidden from view.

Stainless steel bbq grills have become so popular due to their sleek, clean and contemporary design.  The material also holds up well to the outdoor elements and is very durable.  But the finish of stainless steel grills can become an eyesore if not cared for properly, so it is best to keep up with the cleaning and maintenance of the grills on a regular basis in order to keep your grill looking its best.

Buy stainless steel bbq grills and grill accessories here.

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Lights for grills are generally small compact lights that are made with the intention of allowing you to grill into the night.  Most styles have multiple LED features on them, providing about as much light as you would have by day, and many use an alternate power source to charge themselves, like solar power.  The most popular styles are clip-on grill lights, but there are other styles as well.

Solar powered grill lights are typically small, compact lights that you can clip on to your grill or an area around your grill.  In addition to being a great addition to your patio or outdoor kitchen area, they are also great for camping trips, without the hassle of having to bring extra batteries to power the light.  They can also be stored neatly underneath bbq grill covers when not in use.  With solar powered barbeque grill lights, you can have usually have constant bright light for up to four hours.  If you are away on a trip and need light for longer periods of time, you can just bring a couple of these lights with you and you will have light long into the night.  Simply charge the lights during the day (make sure you leave them in a sunny spot) and you’re good to go when it’s time to get dinner ready.

There are also battery-operated grill light styles as well.  One problem that these lights can run into is that batteries can have a short life span if they get too hot or cold.  The temperature can drain the power from the batteries prematurely, resulting in only a fraction of the power that you should get out of them.  This can be a problem when your grill light is sitting out in the heat all day long, or especially if you are off on a camping trip where there is not place to store the batteries out of the heat.

Multiple other options are available when it comes to grill lighting, in addition to the clip-on lights.  There are different floor style lamps that are built for the outdoors that you can pull up right next to your grill, giving all the light you need.  These usually need to be plugged into an electrical outlet from the house or into a generator outdoors.  Small compact table lamps can also be used for this purpose, and will also need to plug into an outlet, unless they are one of the models that run on batteries.  Although outdoor table lamps can provide versatility as to where you position your light, they do take up some space on the table portion of your grill, or along the countertop in your outdoor kitchen, so if you’re short on space, this may not be the best option.

There are a number of different grill light styles available for your grilling and party needs, so it is easy to choose the type of light that will work best for you.  Whether you want electric, battery-operated or solar powered grill lights, or you want lights for the grill that clip-on, stand on the floor, or sit on a table or countertop right alongside your grill, you should be able to find an inexpensive grilling light to make the task of grilling at night easier.  You can check with your local hardware store, home improvement store, or lighting store to find just what you need.

You can buy grill lights here.

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Keeping your grill in top-notch shape requires that you clean it after each use.  If you let the burnt food sit on it for a long period of time, then the cleaning part will surely be more challenging.  Using wire brushes and steel wool may result in scathing, which will fill up with burnt on debris and make your rack that much harder to clean.

Never use an abrasive cleaner for racks of stainless steel grills.  Remember that when the grill is used over and over, you’ll notice its grates becoming discolored.  Although it may not attain the shiny appearance that it once had, it’s possible to prevent pits, scrapes, and rust from corroding your grill, as long as you correctly maintain it.

Here are a few methods to clean your stainless steel grill:

1. Vinegar - using vinegar will dissolve food that’s burnt, as it gently cleans the rack.  After the grill cools, dilute two cups of vinegar and water in a spray bottle.  Spray the grill and let the solution sit for about ten minutes.  You then fold foil, thick enough so that it won’t tear, and scrub the rack with it.  The foil can help remove debris without leaving scratch marks.

2. Burning - another way to clean stainless steel grills is to turn up the flames and burn debris left.  As the grill is still hot, use a soft brush to scrub the remaining debris.  Once the grill has cooled, you should then use a rag, soaked in water or vinegar solution, to finish the cleaning process.

3. Soaking - there are times when racks require overnight soaking.  To do this, put the grill rack in a large sturdy garbage bag.  Mix two cups vinegar with one cup baking soda and pour it into the bag, then tie it shut.  During the next day, take the racks out and hose them down, or you can use a rag to wipe off the debris.

Cleaning the racks of stainless steel grills doesn’t have to be such a difficult and dreaded task, if you know what you are doing and keep up with the cleaning on a regular basis.  If done correctly, you will just be able to enjoy the use of your stainless steel grill, without lots of cleaning headaches.

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2. A Stainless Steel Splashback In Your Outdoor Kitchen?
3. Portable Grills: Bigger Isn’t Always Better

If you enjoy cooking with propane rather than charcoal, then there are certain brands which are available for you. There are grills that are cartable from a standing position, and others that can simply be folded up.  This means you can travel easily to the table top, which a majority of people think of when they talk about transportable grills.  These types of grills can run off of the 16.4 propane tanks, but on the other hand, the foldable type can be converted into a 20 pound tank, too.

If you like to cook with charcoal instead, then there’s a nifty, small grill available which is the standard table top model. This grill is about 2 feet tall and allows you to have 16 square inches of space for grilling.  The neat thing is that the legs are able to fold and the lid fastens into place for easy transport as well as storing.  In addition, it has a catch pan for the charcoal, and these types of portable grills are also available in propane models.

There are also stainless steel portable grills.  There are brands that can top out at 20,000 BTU’S and have dual smoker plates, which make cleaning an easy chore. There are also portable grills that can be mounted, making it easy to attach to your truck.

Remember though, that the weight of grills varies.  Portable grills can range in weight from about five to thirty pounds. The models that are made from stainless steel or the larger foldable type, are going to weigh a little more.  Keep in mind that not all table top griddles and grills can be mounted, so make sure you check out the features of the grill you have your eye on, if that’s important to you.  Portable grill prices will vary as well, based on the size, type of grill, and features offered.

So, if you’re looking for the convenience of being able to take a grill with you when you are away from home, or even to just be able to move a grill around within your own backyard, then you may want to consider buying portable grills instead of, or in addition to, larger and more stationary models.

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2. Kamado Grills Provide the Ultimate Outdoor Grilling Experience
3. What Type of Grill is Right For You?

Barbecuing is a tradition in much of the world.  Most competition grillers use charcoal or wood, most frequently in large, traditionally (and sometimes novel) designed steel grills.  They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from a fifty-five gallon oil drum sawed lengthwise on its side to make a lid and grill base, to large, vehicle sized grills made of brick, as well as many other styles.  Barbecue grills are also a common household item, though usually in smaller sizes.

Grills have existed in America since more primitive times.  Barbacoa, a primitive grilling method, uses a device which was used by the Arawak people to roast their meat on a wooden structure.  Sometimes, this word is used for the wooden structure and not the act of grilling, but this word was finally applied to the crater style cooking techniques used in the Southeastern United States, that is used to slow heat hogs.  Nowadays, other foods are cooked in a similar fashion, with hot dogs and hamburgers being new trapping.

E.G. Kingsford was the person who invented the modern charcoal briquette.  Kingsford was very close to Henry Ford who saw that Ford’s Model T production lines were producing a large amount of wood waste that was just being redundant.  E. G. Kingsford suggested to Henry Ford that a charcoal developed facility should be setup next to the meeting lines that should sell charcoal, with the name of Ford.  After the death of Kingsford, the company was renamed Kingsford Charcoal Co. in his honor.  When most people picture a bag of charcoal, they picture the white and blue bag that contains Kingsford Charcoal.

Thanks to the work of early  innovators, grilling is one of America’s great national pastimes.  From ball games to picnics to family get-togethers, grilling is an important piece of the fabric that is America.  We can use portable charcoal grills to quickly get a party going, or we can use built-in park grills to enjoy one of American’s national parks.  However we do it, though, grilling is a tradition that won’t stop anytime soon!

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2. Portable Grills: Bigger Isn’t Always Better
3. Kamado Grills Provide the Ultimate Outdoor Grilling Experience

Kamado grills provide a unique way of cooking because of their construction.  This grill consists of thick, high-fire ceramic for the outer shell and the inner chamber, which allows for efficient cooking while keeping the outside of the grill from heating up and causing burns.  The grill is also reinforced with stainless steel for added strength.  Kamado style grills are dome shaped and heat up quickly.

With a kamado grill, you can use charcoal, gas, wood or electricity as fuel for cooking, but the vast majority of these grills will call for the use of natural charcoal briquettes.  And, not only are kamados amazing grills, but they can serve as smokers, or even as an oven.  With the proper grilling accessories, you will have everything you need for the best outdoor cooking experience possible.  And you can make so many different types of food for every type of meal or event with just this one outdoor appliance.

Food cooked in ceramic has an incredible taste, and this type of grill will give you an experience in good tasting food that cannot be matched by any other grill.  The grill can withstand very high temperatures and maintains the juiciness of food during cooking.  And by simply adjusting the airflow, you adjust the temperature.  When you are through cooking, your kamado grill will clean itself just by opening the vents and allowing the grill to reach a high temperature of 500 degrees for a total of 15 minutes.  So, not only will you experience food with extraordinary taste, but cleanup is also a snap with this type of efficient grill.

Kamado grill prices are typically higher than other types of grills, but are well worth every penny.  You will never have to worry about needing another grill when you own a kamado grill.  When you buy a kamado grill from a high quality company, you will get a grill that can last decades, if not a lifetime.  Companies such as Kamado, Komodo, Primo, Grill Dome and Big Green Egg manufacturer high quality kamado style grills.

You can be assured that your kamado style grill will not only be a versatile addition to your outdoor kitchen, whether large or small, but will also be very strong and durable.  And food cooked the kamado way will provide  the perfect eating experience!

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There are many advantages of electric cooktops.  Using electric for a cooking source gives you the freedom to put your cooktop just about anywhere in your outdoor kitchen, because all you need to add is an electrical outlet, rather than having to run a gas line to a particular location.  Not bound by the restraints of gas cooking, that typically also needs an overhead vent (although if you are cooking outdoors in an open area, you can often get away without installing a vent), using an electric cook top gives you a lot more location options than its gas counterpart.

Cook-top appliances separate the traditional oven and burner and can give you a variety of non-traditional kitchen designs.  This is especially true in outdoor kitchens, where there is often no need for a traditional oven while there is still a need for the extra burners that a cooktop provides.  The burners can be located on an island or along a stretch of countertop near the grill or in a separate area, and the flat top can double as additional counter space when not in use. If you are also including an oven in your outdoor kitchen, the oven can be recessed into a wall seamlessly with any cabinetry for a sleek modern outdoor kitchen design.

Here are a few considerations to keep in mind to help you decide if adding an electric cooktop to your outdoor kitchen is a good idea:

• Electric cook tops are easy to clean and can come with side ventilation to minimize cooking odors in your immediate outdoor cooking space.
• The glass tops, when cleaned after every use, will not retain a build up of grease.
• The clean look of the glass can come with identifying rings for the burners or none at all.
• Touch sensors are available as well as the traditional dials for you to choose from.
• Electric induction cooking is another choice of cooking.  If you are switching to an induction cooking top, however, it may mean an investment in new cookware to accommodate the different kind of heat transference.  The freedom of this fuel for cooking will let you design the outdoor kitchen of your dreams.

One consideration when choosing electric cooktops for your outdoor kitchen design is that you should only install the appliance in a location that has some type of overhead covering to protect the cooktop from being hit by falling debris from surrounding trees or items blowing in the wind.  The electric source also needs to be in a location that does not come into contact with water and all proper electrical wiring and precautions should be followed for outdoor electric installation.  You should also take into account the weather where you live and inquire as to whether there will be any issues with your cooktop due to the weather, such as if you live in a climate with drastic freeze-thaw cycles or copious amounts of rain or wind.

Living outdoors in pleasant weather adds bonus lifestyle points to everyday life.  Installing an additional home kitchen to be used outdoors can turn out to be one of the most enjoyable aspects of your residence.

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3. Kamado Grills Provide the Ultimate Outdoor Grilling Experience

How big or how small you go with your outdoor patio kitchen depends on two things – space and money.  If you have no limits on either, by all means go big.  Get the biggest gas grill available so you will be able to cook for big crowds.  If you have the room, add a covered area above your outdoor kitchen so the cook won’t roast in the heat of the sun!  Add an outdoor sink, refrigerator, wine storage, trash compartments, a good stereo system and even a nice flat screen outdoor TV to the design. Of course, you can also add lots of storage by installing outdoor kitchen cabinets.  You can get the whole set-up done in stainless steel, which is a great look and very weather resistant, and you can add other features like stone, granite and other high-end finishes.

If you are on a smaller piece of property and have a smaller budget, no problem – you can still get a great and functional outdoor kitchen so you can enjoy al fresco cooking and dining.  Buy a normal size stainless steel grill, a smaller outdoor TV set, and just one or two outdoor kitchen cabinets to make your outdoor patio kitchen fit your needs and budget.  One thing you’ll probably want to make sure you have is some adequate countertop space for food prep, and an outdoor sink is a great added bonus as well.  Some outdoor dining furniture situated nearby provides the perfect place to enjoy a meal after it is prepared.

If you are looking for some great outdoor kitchen ideas, you can pick up some magazines at the local home improvement store, visit some kitchen displays, or check out model homes.  Those are all good places to pick up helpful and useful ideas for your outdoor kitchen.  You can find beautiful outdoor kitchen photos and ideas online, which is an easy way to start getting an idea of what you like and don’t like and what aspects of outdoor kitchen design are most important to you.  If setting up a kitchen like this isn’t one of your strong points, or if you have to start dealing with running electrical or plumbing lines, you should definitely hire a contractor.  Get a pro and get it done right!

Outdoor kitchens may seem like a luxury to most homeowners, but there is no set of requirements that defines a space as an outdoor kitchen.  You can simply have a grill and a table, if that is all you can swing, or you can have an elaborate and intricate design that includes high end appliances, cabinet space, and all of the luxuries often found indoors.  But no matter what end of the spectrum your outdoor kitchen design may fall into, adding any type of kitchen to the exterior of your home adds a great deal of functionality, and like the indoor kitchen, often becomes a central location for family and friends to congregate while enjoying the great outdoors.

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3. Planning and Budgeting Your Outdoor Kitchen

The first basic decision you need to make is to determine your budget for the project.  If you go into this with a budget of $5000 and a wish list that in reality is going to cost you $10000, well, that will only cause a lot of stress.  An outdoor kitchen means different things to different people.  Some people have no use for a sink outside of the home, while others would never dream of doing the project without one.  The same goes for a refrigerator.  And speaking of refrigerators, will it be an outdoor refrigerator, or just any under counter fridge?  You might wonder what difference that makes at this point.  The answer is, a refrigerator that is UL approved and warranted for outdoor use will cost several hundred dollars more than one that is not.  That alone should drive home the point about budget.  This project requires real research before you even think about dealing with contractors and scheduling the work.

When it comes to outdoor kitchens, you can go about the project in one of two basic ways.  You can set the lowest possible budget and get an adequate outdoor kitchen that will last a few years.  But then the grill will rust, the refrigerator will break, the cabinets will warp, etc., and you will be left with either living with it, eliminating it, or replacing it with something that will last many years.  My obvious point is that you can spend a little more money and have something that will last as long as you own your home.  Sure, the refrigerator may break eventually, but so will the one inside your home.

If you really want an outdoor kitchen, and you plan on spending more than a couple of years in your current home, why not do it right?  You can have a kitchen outdoors that will have cabinetry that is virtually weatherproof, and appliances that will never rust, but you will have to pay a little more for that scenario.

The basic outdoor kitchen consists of a grill, outdoor sink, and a refrigerator.  The cabinet space required for this basic set up is at least 8 feet in length.  You can have this outdoor kitchen for as low as $3500, or as high $12000.  The price difference will be determined by the quality of the appliances, and the cabinet construction type.  You can have a very high quality outdoor kitchen like this for around $8000.  That is just a starting point.  If you want something larger, or with more appliances, the price will go up from there.  If you want granite countertops rather than tile, for example, the price will be higher.  If you want a kegerator, wine cooler, vent hood, double burner…..yes, the price will go up.

As you can see, there is a wide range in quality and price when it comes to outdoor kitchens.  If you handle it right, however, you can have an addition to your home that adds enjoyment as well as real equity to your home.  Handle this wrong and you will only have disappointment, either soon because your budget falls short of your expectations or in a couple of short years, because you did not choose the best quality options for your outdoor kitchen.

Buy books to help you plan your outdoor kitchen here.

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In its basic design and function, a propane grill works very much the same as a gas stove in the home.  They both use a gas fuel source.  Unlike natural gas, the propane can be pressurized and stored in easy to move containers.  One small cylinder can provide the fuel for even the largest propane grill.  There is no ash residue from burning propane although the carbon dioxide produced makes ventilation necessary for safe cooking.  That is why a propane grill should not be used inside the house and should be reserved for an outdoor kitchen or cooking area.  Electric grills are also clean and do not produce dangerous gasses, but do require a plug-in to the electrical grid so you can’t take them camping like you can a propane grill.

The fuel supply to a propane grill can be modulated and controlled.  In this way, you can easily maintain a consistent temperature on the foods you are cooking.  This advanced advantage is a major plus for propane.  A wood fire is constantly fluctuating and even charcoal passes quickly through the perfect cooking temperature as it burns down.

Propane grills can be modified so that you can have various cooking surfaces with different heat levels for different types of cooking.  Some propane grills have built-in burners on the side, which can be regulated separately from the central cooking chamber.

True, you can get a “smoky flavor” with charcoal that you may miss using propane.  However, the advantages of a clean, convenient cooking grill can more than make up for such fine details.

Looking to buy a propane grill? Amazon has a wide selection and great prices.

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Imagine a dining room far from the kitchen heat, a reading nook with natural light, a place to restore positive energy, a room with bragging rights.  All of this could be as close as your backyard.  What could be more enticing than a group of people gathered around a fabulous outdoor patio grill with a Tuscan landscape tile mural as a backdrop or a porcelain tile rug for the patio floor nestled between two outdoor couches, that is patterned and fringed in an Oriental, Moroccan, or Southwestern theme?

Patios provide private sanctuaries for family and friends, and offer an interlude from frenetic activities of the main house.  Patios are getting decked out in fun things which reflect the inside of the home and that bring the inside outside.  For example, tile murals can fit any style or theme and can coordinate with furniture, fabrics, or beautiful scenery and are increasingly finding a place in the outdoors in areas like patios, outdoor kitchens, and inground pools.

From an extensive collection of eye-catching and dramatic Tuscan landscapes to old world master paintings to vintage labels reminiscent of old world style, there is a vast array of beautiful and fabulous images that can be had, or individuals can submit their own images to be transferred onto tiles.  The possibilities are endless.

Because the tiles are kiln fired at 1800 degrees F. they are not affected by the damaging affects of UV and are able to withstand extreme weather conditions.  Versatility is the keyword for imaged  porcelain kiln fired tiles.   They are equally at home in an ocean house, veranda, porch, pool, floor, wall, outdoor fireplace, patio, or just about anywhere.  They are also ideal for all types of exterior commercial applications, such as restaurants, hospitals, and public parks.

Kiln fired tiles for outdoor walls, pools, floors, and outdoor fireplaces are being proposed in every aspect of building and design imaginable!  With the unveiling of this product, calls to custom tile designers have been coming in for the most creative design applications of the century, and people are increasingly ordering tile murals for their outdoor living environment

Companies like AliciaTappDesigns.com offer beautiful outdoor porcelain tiles and custom tile murals, providing the perfect finishing touch to complement any outdoor decor.  They can provide tile installations that include any image and can create tile murals in any size.  The murals they create are truly a work of art.

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If you are considering building an outdoor kitchen, here are a few points to pay attention to when coming up with your outdoor kitchen plans:

Location – The location of outdoor kitchens should be a prime consideration during the planning phase.  An outdoor kitchen should be placed conveniently near an entrance to the house, since food will typically be carried back and forth between an indoor and outdoor kitchen, as well as utensils and other kitchen essentials.  Outdoor kitchen designs that have quick access to the home’s indoor kitchen provide the most convenience.

Workspace – No matter what size kitchen you are planning to build outdoors, it is important to incorporate enough workspace into the area to suit your intended use.  Outdoor kitchen grills should have usable counter space on either side of the grill, as should outdoor kitchen sinks, so that plates, utensils, condiments and other food can easily be placed down while working in the kitchen.  In larger setups, outdoor kitchen islands are a popular way to add large expanses of usable counter space and can also include seating, a bar sink, or other elements to enhance functionality.

Layout – If your outdoor kitchen consists solely of an outdoor kitchen grill, then you don’t have to worry too much about layout.  But, if your plans include a setup typical to an indoor kitchen, such as a grill and possibly other cooking elements, an outdoor kitchen sink, and a refrigerator, the same care should be taken to layout the kitchen design as you would if you were designing an indoor kitchen.  You should make sure you have easy access to each aspect of the kitchen when coming up with outdoor kitchen ideas, and should also consider how many cooks will typically be using the kitchen at once before finalizing your layout.

Equipment – When designing an outdoor kitchen, there is a large variety of outdoor kitchen equipment to choose from.  Of course, the most logical inclusion is an outdoor grill or barbeque, and there are many styles and sizes of this important cooking feature to choose from.  You may also want to include other cooking elements, such as a pizza oven, regular oven, or cooktop for added cooking functionality.  When it comes to keeping things cool, you can add a refrigerator, an icebox or freezer, or even a wine cooler or ice maker.  Another important element of an outdoor kitchen is a sink or sinks, and those can be single sinks, double sinks or even bar sinks.

Storage space – An outdoor kitchen typically doesn’t require as much storage space as an indoor kitchen, since many items will be kept indoors and then will be taken out as needed.  Even so, it is beneficial to include storage space in your outdoor kitchen plans, such as cabinets, to house the outdoor kitchen supplies that will remain outdoors at all times, such as grill utensils, over mitts, and any other items that have no need inside.  It is better to include more storage space than you think you need, rather than incorporating too little space.

Seating & Dining – It used to be that a barbeque grill was placed away from dining or seating areas because they produced a lot of smoke.  But many of the newer grill models can better maintain the smoke that is emitted, or are even smokeless, and therefore there is no need to keep seating areas so far from cooking areas.  Seating in an outdoor kitchen can include outdoor dining furniture, a bistro table, or even a few stools placed around an outdoor kitchen island.  Keeping seating close to the kitchen space will keep the cook involved with everyone during food prep, rather than having to miss all the fun while preparing a meal for guests.

Extras – The basics of outdoor kitchen design include consideration of the basic layout of the kitchen, as well as locations for a grill, sink, fridge, storage and seating.  Other options can add more functionality and interest to your outdoor kitchen design.  Various outdoor kitchen appliances can make food prep easier and storage for these items should be considered in the initial design.  Outdoor kitchen accessories can also add functionality, as well as enhance the design of your kitchen plans.  Outdoor lighting should also be considered in your design plans so that you can continue to use your kitchen space after the sun goes down.

When it comes to designing an outdoor kitchen, the possibilities are endless.  Unlike an indoor kitchen which typically has set rules for design, an outdoor kitchen can be large or small, can contain only one aspect (such as a cooking area) or many, and can be customized to meet your functional needs, while adapting to your backyard design.  Custom outdoor kitchens can be designed near pools, on patios, within gardens, or almost anywhere that you desire.

Most people will hire a professional to build an outdoor kitchen.  When considering a professional for the job, it is best to interview a few different builders and ask them to come up with a detailed set of outdoor kitchen plans for you to review.  This will help you get a better idea of what you like, and will also allow you to compare pricing and workmanship. It is a good idea to ask for references and take a look at other outdoor kitchens that any builder has already completed.

If you plan to build an outdoor kitchen on your own, you can find plenty of outdoor kitchen pictures by searching online or looking through design books or magazines that feature outdoor designs.  Looking through outdoor kitchen photos is a great first step in determining what you want or don’t want in your kitchen design and can make it easier to describe to builders how you would like your kitchen to look if you are having a professional build it, or can help you design your own outdoor kitchen if you are doing it yourself.  You can also find useful tips on how to build an outdoor kitchen online if you plan to tackle the project yourself.

Adding an outdoor kitchen to your home not only adds functionality to your outdoor space, but just like an indoor kitchen is the center of most homes, an outdoor kitchen can become the central spot for entertaining and enjoyment when you step outside.

Buy outdoor kitchen equipment and design books here.

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