How to Build an Outdoor Kitchen (Without Losing Your Mind or Your Savings)
So, you’ve decided to upgrade your backyard from “soggy burger zone” to “culinary paradise.” Good call. We’ve all been there—standing in the rain, flipping burgers on a rusty grill, wondering why we didn’t just order pizza. But hey, why settle for takeout when you can create an outdoor kitchen that’ll make your neighbors jealous (and maybe borrow your tools a little too often)? Let’s break down how to tackle this project like a pro—without accidentally flooding your yard or burning down the shed.
At Verified Builders, we’ve helped Denver homeowners turn their backyards into functional masterpieces for years. Whether you’re eyeing a simple grill station or a full-blown luxury home renovation with a pizza oven and margarita fridge, we’ve got your back. And hey, if you’re Googling “home remodeling near me” right now, let’s save you the hassle: we’re here, we’re local, and we’ve got the reviews to prove it.
Contents
- 1 Step 1: Plan Like You’re Prepping for a BBQ Apocalypse
- 2 Step 2: Choose Materials That Survive Denver Weather (and Your Brother-in-Law)
- 3 Step 3: Appliances—Because a Grill Isn’t Enough Anymore
- 4 Step 4: Hire the Right Squad (Or Regret It Later)
- 5 Step 5: Budget Like a Boss
- 6 Step 6: Maintenance (Or “How to Avoid a Science Experiment in Your Fridge”)
- 7 FAQs: Because We Know You’re Curious
- 8 Ready to Ditch That Rusty Grill?
Step 1: Plan Like You’re Prepping for a BBQ Apocalypse
Let’s get real: winging it isn’t an option here. Unless you enjoy rerouting gas lines at midnight, planning is non-negotiable.
H3: Start With the Basics
- Layout: Think about workflow. Your grill, prep area, and fridge should be close enough that you’re not playing hopscotch while handling raw meat.
- Utilities: Gas, water, electricity—this isn’t the time to realize your dream sink has nowhere to plug in. Pro tip: Hire a general contractor (like us cough) to handle permits and technical headaches.
- Budget: Spoiler: Outdoor kitchens aren’t cheap. But you can balance splurges (hello, built-in smoker) with savings (DIY concrete countertops, anyone?).
H3: Design for Your Actual Life
Are you hosting 20 people every weekend, or just want a quiet spot to grill burgers? Choose appliances and seating that match your vibe. And FYI, a $5,000 pizza oven might sound cool, but if you’re a salad-for-dinner person, maybe skip it.
Step 2: Choose Materials That Survive Denver Weather (and Your Brother-in-Law)
Colorado weather is like a bad relationship: unpredictable and kinda harsh. Your materials need to handle snow, sun, and that one friend who “accidentally” spills beer on everything.
H3: Countertops
- Concrete: Durable and customizable. Perfect if you want a modern-industrial look.
- Granite: Classic, but seal it yearly unless you enjoy staining.
- Tile: Budget-friendly, but grout lines love collecting crumbs.
H3: Cabinets & Storage
Stainless steel = low maintenance. Wood = cozy but high maintenance (like that friend who only eats organic).
Pro Tip from Verified Builders: For custom remodels, mix materials! Pair stainless drawers with a reclaimed wood bar top. We’ve done this for clients doing whole house remodeling—it ties indoor and outdoor spaces together beautifully.
Step 3: Appliances—Because a Grill Isn’t Enough Anymore
Let’s be honest: the grill is the star, but supporting actors matter too.
Must-Haves:
- Grill: Gas for convenience, charcoal for flavor, or go hybrid.
- Fridge: Skip the cooler. Trust us.
- Sink: Unless you enjoy sprinting inside with dirty hands.
Nice-to-Haves:
- Pizza oven (for the carb lovers).
- Kegerator (for the… well, you know).
- Warming drawers (for when your guests arrive late, again).
Step 4: Hire the Right Squad (Or Regret It Later)
Sure, you could DIY this. But unless you’re a home addition contractor with a side gig in plumbing, leave the heavy lifting to pros. Here’s why:
- Permits: Cities love paperwork. We don’t. But we’ll handle it.
- Gas & Electrical Work: One wrong move and… let’s not think about it.
- Time: How many weekends are you willing to sacrifice?
Why Verified Builders?
We’re a remodeling company that’s been fixing DIY disasters since 2012. Our bathroom remodeling team once rescued a client who tried to install a showerhead… in their living room. True story.
Step 5: Budget Like a Boss
Outdoor kitchens range from “IKEA basic” to “007 villain lair.” Here’s a rough breakdown:
| Feature | Budget-Friendly | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Countertops | Concrete ($1.5k) | Granite ($3k) | Quartz ($5k+) |
| Grill | Portable ($300) | Built-in ($1.5k) | Professional ($5k+) |
| Lighting | String lights ($50) | LED strips ($200) | Smart system ($800) |
Quick Tips:
- Repurpose: Got bricks from your basement remodel? Use ’em for a pizza oven base!
- Phase It: Start with the essentials; add the kegerator later.
Step 6: Maintenance (Or “How to Avoid a Science Experiment in Your Fridge”)
An outdoor kitchen is like a pet: neglect it, and things get gross.
- Clean Grates After Every Use: Burnt-on grease isn’t a seasoning.
- Cover Appliances: Unless you want raccoons hosting their own BBQ.
- Winterize: Drain pipes, shut off gas. Denver winters don’t play.
FAQs: Because We Know You’re Curious
1. “Can I build an outdoor kitchen myself?”
Sure, if you’re okay with YouTube tutorials and existential dread. For complex tasks (gas lines, electrical), hire a home renovation contractor.
2. “How long does it take?”
4–8 weeks, depending on design. Delays happen (looking at you, permit office).
3. “Will this add value to my home?”
Absolutely. Outdoor kitchens are a top ROI feature—especially in Denver’s competitive market.
Ready to Ditch That Rusty Grill?
Building an outdoor kitchen is part art, part science, and 100% worth it. Whether you’re doing a bathroom renovation next or tackling a basement remodel contractor project down the line, Verified Builders is here to help. We’re not just another “remodeling company near me”—we’re your neighbors, and we’ve got the skills (and humor) to make your project painless.
So, what’s next? Grab a beer, sketch your dream layout, and give us a shout. Let’s turn your backyard into the ultimate hangout—before your brother-in-law “helps” again. 😉
