Do it Yourself: Outdoor Kitchens

Plan to Suit Your Needs

• Plan for the amount of square footage you have. Depending on city ordinances, you can build only a certain distance away from your property line. Check with local zoning and planning to make sure you are not breaking any codes with your plans.

  Next, consider what you will use your outdoor kitchen for. Are you going to store food outside, eat outside, saute outside? If you are just going to grill and eat, all you need is a patio, a grill and a place to sit and eat. Be realistic in your plans. If you have never deep fried in your home, don't bother installing a deep fryer outside.

  Once you have established what you want outside, decide how you plan to implement this. If you are installing a top range with burners, what kind do you want? Electric? Gas? Do you want to go through the trouble of running a gas line from your home to your outdoor kitchen? Probably not. Stick with refillable propane units. They are cheaper and easier to install.

Shop Around

• As with any major purchase, get the scoop about where to find the cheapest materials. While you may be able to find rock-bottom prices at stores like Home Depot, you may find more for your money with local contractors. Check out local landscape artists, who may help you create an outdoor kitchen for less.

  Don't break the bank shopping, but also remember that your outdoor kitchen is an investment. If you're going to spend the time and money it takes to create this additional space for your home, choose materials that will last a long time and add value to your investment. Natural stone and stainless steel are just as valuable indoors as out.

  The National Association of Home Builders says that a deck addition brings about a 53 percent to 89 percent return on outdoor kitchens. Consider that when building.

Start Building

• As always, safety first. If you are cutting stone, make sure you know what you are doing or have someone experienced guide you.

  If you do run a gas line or electricity, you must shut the gas/electricity off before attaching an open tube or live wire. Or better yet, let a professional handle the really dangerous stuff.

  Since you're building outdoors, you must compete with the elements. If you're installing a ceiling or awning, it may be wise to do so first so you can continue working if it rains. If you're building in the winter or spring, remember concrete should not be poured during cold weather. The ACI (American Concrete Institute Code) defines cold weather as three days with temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees C) and stays below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees C).