The trend towards outdoor living spaces has never been stronger, and with the new year comes fresh inspiration to upgrade our homes to embrace outdoor dining, entertaining, and cooking. However, creating an outdoor kitchen that stands the test of time requires careful planning, especially when it comes to weatherproofing. This guide dives into the ultimate weatherproof outdoor kitchen for 2024.
Latest Trends in Outdoor Kitchen Design
The concept of outdoor kitchens has evolved significantly, moving from traditional grilling stations to fully equipped cooking areas. The year 2024 sees a surge in modular outdoor kitchens, valued for their flexibility and contemporary design. These modular units can easily configured to your needs and preferences, with a wide range of modules available.
Weatherproof Materials and Finishes
The choice of materials is critical to ensuring the durability and ease of maintenance of your outdoor kitchen. High-quality, weatherproof materials are paramount for cabinetry to withstand the elements. Metals such as stainless steel and aluminum resist rust, fading, and deformation, offering advantages over carbon steel. Countertop choices like granite, quartzite, or porcelain are resilient against harsh weather conditions and maintain the visual allure of your outdoor cooking space. Opting for these superior materials guarantees that your outdoor kitchen remains both stunning and functional over the years.
The shift towards modular kitchens has prompted manufacturers to adopt stainless steel, aluminum, and carbon steel for their durability outdoors. Stainless steel, although the priciest option, delivers a sleek, uncoated finish that many homeowners desire. For those who prefer a textured or powder-coated appearance, aluminum or carbon steel are suitable choices. However, it’s worth noting that any flaws in carbon steel‘s coating can lead to rust, which may eventually strip away the entire coating. This emphasis on weather-resistant materials ensures that your outdoor kitchen stands the test of time, blending durability with design seamlessly.
Durability and Warranty for Outdoor Appliances
In the process of designing an outdoor kitchen the durability of outdoor appliances and their warranties become paramount.
BBQs: Most BBQ brands offer warranties that cover outdoor exposure. It’s important to note, however, that warranties typically cover functional defects rather than cosmetic issues. Thus, if your BBQ experiences tea staining or surface rust due to outdoor exposure, the warranty does not cover these conditions. Always verify the outdoor suitability of the BBQ with the supplier or manufacturer before installation. It is always recommended to have a BBQ cover.
Refrigerators: The market for outdoor refrigerators presents a mix, with many bar fridges not carrying an official IP (Ingress Protection) rating. For those that do, warranties might still be voided if the unit is not under cover. For instance, the Husky ALF-C1-BLK-840 Alfresco Drink Chiller boasts an IPX4 rating, indicating its tested resilience against water splashes from any direction. Despite this, Husky’s warranty states that the fridge must be used in sheltered outdoor areas. Alternatively, the Rhino Alfresco glass door fridge carries an IP24 rating, although it remains unspecified whether its warranty covers use in exposed outdoor settings.
Conclusion
By incorporating the latest design trends, selecting weatherproof materials, and adding entertainment features, you can create an outdoor kitchen that reflects modern outdoor living. It will also be a space that you and your loved ones will enjoy for many years to come. Start planning your weatherproof outdoor kitchen today and transform your backyard into a versatile, inviting outdoor oasis.
