I’ve contracted to build an outdoor kitchen — a completely new venture for me — and am investigating some different construction options for the “cabinets”.
Basically, the idea is to put a cultured stone veneer on the facing. Originally, the plan was to build a cement block wall and then veneer the front. But then the owner and I began thinking of some cheaper alternatives to the cement block — possibly framing the cabinets with treated lumber or metal studs, concrete backer board and the cultured stone on this.
Structurally this isn’t a problem. My primary concern is moisture getting into the structure and wreaking havoc — not so much in the immediate future, but 5 to 10 years down the road.
Any thoughts on keeping this structure safe from the elements — I live in Pittsburgh and get a lot of rain and some heavy winters (although the weather isn’t as bad as most people make it out to be.) I’ve never worked with metal studs, and am not certain as to their benefit against water exposure as to treated lumber. I’m thinking the enlosed area should also be vented, as well.
Replies
First off I live in S Calif so I dont know snow except to ski.
But I have done an outdoor kitchen using a concrete "toe kick" and then metal studs. Used Hardiboard (1/2") screwed and then stuccoed walls and waterproofed top and tiled. Did it about 8 years ago and customer still uses it about 340 days a year.
Bing
The ones I have seen at patio shops use the galvanized studs with concrete board. Then cultured stone or tile on that.
These are the modular enclosures for BBQ grills.
I would think the pressure treated would have too much movement. I agree it should be vented.
What did you have planned for the cabinet doors?
Edit for spelling
Edited 6/15/2007 10:48 am ET by JAlden
There are fairly minimal storage cabinets. The sink "base" would probably be fashioned out of wood. The refrigerator and any other cabinet will be stainless steel.
Thanks for both of your suggestions. I think the metal studs are the way to go. The back side of the cabinets are in a small 18-inch hillside, so I'm thinking that a cement block backing is still in order to serve as a retaining wall. I'll put french drains around the perimeter, as well.
Quite an interesting challenge!
I saw a sale flyer from HD a few weeks back, that seemed to be encouraging things like this. Besides the BBQ, they were selling refrigerators, portable sinks, propane heaters, fire pits, and screen houses / gazebos ... all to go with the posh outdoor furniture. (Personally, I can't wait for someone to put the screen house up over the fire pit! )
Anyway, here's what I've come up with:
First of all, you will not have a true kitchen, in that there will be no sewer connection. Still, you will want a water spigot in a convenient place, as well as a means to run electric out there for lights, music ... and that fridge :)
However you do it, do NOT bury extension cords. Their insulation does not survive long when buried. I expect the same problem would happen if you pulled the cords through a buried pipe.
For sound, there is no reason not to use "wireless" speakers ...and position the stereo at a window. Remote controls work fine, and you won't need to string speaker wires.
Lighting is another issue. I suggest the battery powered LED lights that are beginning to turn up .... cheap, use little power, and just put the light where you need it, without ruining the evening.
While you may not have a sewer line, I suggest an area that has gravel fill to maybe a 2 ft. depth. This will give you a place to pour water. There is the risk that heavy use, and a high food content, will make this 'dry well' a smelly bug magnet; if you anticipate serious use, maybe a sewer line isn't a bad idea.
As for the ground cover: I'd think of using some sort of open grid ... say, steel grating or even just cinder blocks with the holes facing up. This would support your walking, while still letting grass pop up. No ocean of cement. Fill the holes with dirt, plant, and enjoy.
I'm a bit unhappy with the outside wall of cabinets you propose. Let me suggest a different approach....
Let the BBQ stand alone, off to one side. Build a long shed, with the roof maybe 7 ft. high in front, sloping back to 6 ft in the rear. This shed would be about 2 ft. deep, and open along the long side. Perhaps you could make some sort of accordion-type door, or even a tambour. The idea is that once you open the door .... there is your counter and prep area. Other things, such as a rolling cooler, can store under the counter, and come out as needed. Rather than cabinets, I'd rely on open wire shelves.
Weather concerns are best approached by providing for things to dry off, after they get wet. Keeping things out of direct sun is also important. Another environmental issue to consider is VERMIN. Having the shed raised - even slightly - over the ground will be a big help. So will screening openings. Even the wire shelves seem to be less 'animal friendly.'
If there are openings, wasps will make nests inside. They only need a 1/4" hole. If there is food, mice will follow. Mice can learn to enter refrigerators through the door gasket. Any waste will bring flies, and any water will bring mosquitoes.
For counter and table tops, Corian is probably the material of choice. Formica (and it's substrate) doesn't handle standing water well. Glued up wood (butcher block) works well, as long as it's protected from sun; just a coat of mineral oil, and it's pretty decent. Metal tops are noisy, blind you with light reflections, and show every ding.