Al-Fresco dining has become a major trend in recent years. For many homeowners, it is more affordable and accessible than ever to upgrade to an outdoor kitchen. An outside cooking station can help transform your backyard and allow you to host wonderful summer gatherings. When it comes to outdoor kitchens, there are a variety of materials to choose from for the base. You can go as elaborate or moderate as you like, plus it is easy to find an outdoor kitchen base that suits your budget.

Options for Kitchen Bases

One of the most important choices for any outdoor kitchen is the base. While indoor kitchens consist of separate cabinets, an outdoor dining area has one main material. The choice of material is significant since it will impact on utility, price and general aesthetics. Additionally, some materials are easier to install than others which can impact on the total cost of outdoor kitchen installation. Below, you can see some of the most popular options for outdoor kitchen bases.

Stacked Stone Bases

Fort Lauderdale Outdoor Kitchen

If you’re after a classic look then stacked stone is definitely a material to consider. Stacked stone provides a rustic and neat effect. Stacked stone walls are made up of individual small stones that are flat. They provide the perfect sense of charm.

Alongside sharp looks, this is a material that can last a lifetime if built correctly and looked after properly. A stacked stone outdoor kitchen is definitely an option to consider for those that are looking to accommodate space, even for uneven terrain. Overall, stacked stone is a versatile material that can be used for walls, veneers, fireplaces, and surroundings.

Wood Bases

If you’re looking for a natural material that blends in well with your backyard, then wood is definitely a viable option to consider. Wood also allows you to have elements that look similar to an indoor kitchen, since many cabinets and drawers are made out of it. The design can be customized with paint or stain. This flexibility makes it a top option.

Wood does have some notable drawbacks though, with one of the main ones being a lack of weather resistance. If it is exposed to long periods of wet weather, then it can rot over time and need replacement. The finish can also be affected by long-term exposure to the elements, which makes it a higher maintenance material. You can get pressure-treated wood to mitigate some of the effects of heat and wet weather.

Overall, wood can be a solid choice, but in many cases, it is more suitable to an indoor kitchen rather than an outdoor one. The cost is fairly inexpensive upfront, but there are maintenance costs to consider.

Stone Veneer Bases

Fort Lauderdale Outdoor Kitchen

Another fantastic base option for an outdoor kitchen is stone veneer. This specific material is low maintenance and won’t require painting or re-sealing. You can choose from natural or manufactured stone veneer. It complements many design themes and provides warm earthy hues that can resemble various types of natural stone.

Whether you want an outdoor kitchen with sleek designs and strong lines or one with a more textured look, stone veneer can be perfect for adding a distinctive touch. You can find a variety of colors available in stone veneer which makes it the perfect base for contemporary outdoor kitchens.

This flexible choice of material can suit all budgets and stylistic choices which makes it one to seriously consider for anyone looking to create a modern outdoor kitchen oasis. Once it is installed, stone veneer will keep its fresh and warm look for years with very little maintenance required.

Brick Bases

Another highly durable material to consider for your outdoor kitchen base is brick. A brick outdoor kitchen exudes a classic look, and it is a pretty timeless style. The framing blends nicely into the surroundings. Additionally, brick is reliable and highly suitable as a base because of its weather resistance and low maintenance. Brick tends to be a bit more costly than other options, but it is a safe long-term investment. Building costs end up in the medium range since it is a material that is slightly more difficult to work with than others, like wood. Still, brick is a fantastic option for any outdoor BBQ or outdoor kitchen set.

Concrete Bases

Fort Lauderdale Outdoor Kitchen

One of the most durable bases to choose from is concrete. The considerable weight of concrete makes it a reliable choice, but it also has a smooth look that blends well with an outdoors environment. In terms of combining functionality and design, concrete definitely comes out on top. Its easy maintenance and flexibility in design makes it a popular choice. A few specific advantages that concrete has over other materials is the ability to be cast into any shape, excellent weather resistance, and endless edge details.

However, the specific look of concrete may not suit everyone’s tastes, and it also requires a more experienced contractor to install which can raise the cost. You should keep in mind that the material itself is fairly affordable.

The Choice is Yours

You now have a much clearer idea of which kitchen bases are available for outdoor kitchens. Each specific base has its own pros and cons which you will need to consider. At US Brick & Block, we can advise you on which base would be suitable for your specific requirements. Get a free estimate today!

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