Outdoor kitchens have become a must-have for many Aussie homes, offering a perfect spot for cooking, entertaining, and soaking up the great outdoors. They don’t just add a new place to fire up the grill; they can also boost your home’s value. But while most advice focuses on what you should do when creating an outdoor kitchen, it’s just as critical to know what to steer clear of. Avoiding common mistakes can save you from surprise costs, safety issues, and a kitchen that doesn’t quite hit the mark. Let’s dig into the common outdoor kitchen missteps and how to sidestep them, ensuring your space is safe, functional, and built to last.
WHY YOU SHOULD AVOID AN ENCLOSED BBQ AREA
An enclosed outdoor kitchen might sound like a great way to shield against wind and weather, but when gas is in the mix, ventilation should come first. Proper airflow is non-negotiable with gas setups like LPG because a lack of it can lead to dangerous gas build-up. An enclosed BBQ area can also be a headache when it comes to meeting local safety codes, as many regulations demand open airflow for spaces using gas appliances. To keep your cooking zone safe and up to standard, think about incorporating features like vents, open walls, or louvre windows. This will not only keep the area safe but also create a more open, breezy space that feels connected to your backyard.
For more insights on keeping your outdoor kitchen usable year-round, head over to our post on extending the outdoor living season with heating solutions.
DON’T RUSH UTILITY INSTALLATION – PLAN FIRST
One of the biggest outdoor kitchen mistakes is getting too eager with the utility hookups. Laying down gas, water, or electrical lines before you’ve locked in your design can back you into a corner, leaving you stuck with a layout that doesn’t quite work. It can also lead to costly adjustments if things need to be moved. Start with a detailed plan that maps out where everything will go—from appliances and prep counters to seating areas. This way, you’ve got a clear blueprint before the first pipe goes in, letting you tweak the layout without hassle. A little extra planning upfront can save time, cash, and a lot of frustration.
Need more tips on creating a solid plan? Check out our blog on building an outdoor kitchen.
INDOOR VS OUTDOOR RANGE HOODS
If you’re adding a range hood above your BBQ, make sure it’s built for the job. Indoor range hoods just don’t cut it outside—they’re not made to handle the smoke, heat, and grease that come with outdoor cooking. An alfresco range hood, on the other hand, is designed to extract more smoke and keep the air clear, even when you’re cooking up a feast. This is especially crucial if your kitchen setup includes a BBQ area, helping to keep the space comfortable and fresh. It’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference to your outdoor experience.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT SURFACES FOR OUTDOOR USE
Picking the right materials for your building outdoor kitchen project can make or break its durability. For example, quartz countertops are a popular choice indoors but can fade and discolour under the sun’s UV rays. That’s why it’s better to go for options like granite, stainless steel, or specially treated woods. These materials can handle rain, sun, and everything in between, keeping your outdoor space looking its best for years. Not sure where to start? Our installation services can help you choose surfaces that strike the right balance between style and toughness.
DON’T SKIMP WHEN IT COMES TO THE BBQ
Your barbecue is the centrepiece of your outdoor kitchen, so it’s worth investing in a high-quality unit that will provide years of reliable service. While it might be tempting to choose a lower-cost model, this can lead to frequent breakdowns, rust, and the need for early replacements—costing more in the long run. Investing in a high-quality BBQ ensures consistent performance, durability, and a better cooking experience. Look for features like stainless steel construction and powerful burners, which can handle the demands of outdoor cooking.
Explore our range of premium BBQs designed to enhance your outdoor cooking experience.
LET’S BUILD YOUR OUTDOOR KITCHEN THE RIGHT WAY
Building an outdoor kitchen is an exciting project, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can lead to frustration and unnecessary expenses. Stonewood Outdoor Living is here to help you design and build your dream outdoor kitchen without the costly mistakes. Our team of experts can guide you through the entire process, from choosing the right materials and appliances to ensuring proper installation and compliance with local regulations. Contact us today, and let’s create a culinary haven you’ll cherish for years.
