In 2021, an American Institute of Architects survey demonstrated a growing demand for outdoor spaces. It went from 61% in 2020 to 70%.
Many homeowners are looking to make improvements to their yards, rooftops, or patios. And they often turn to outdoor kitchens as the answer. This construction project has many benefits; it can increase property value, lower utility bills, and provide a great place to entertain guests.
But don’t blindly jump into a new construction project. Here are things to consider before investing in an outdoor kitchen for your St Petersburg, FL home.
Budget
Your budget is the most important consideration before starting a home renovation project. You want to have a clear idea of your budget and make sure you’re purchasing high-quality and reasonably priced materials, furniture, and appliances from the right suppliers.
Local Weather
Florida is one of the warmest states in the US. To protect an outdoor kitchen from the high temperatures, some homeowners opt to construct them on a deck or covered patio — especially if those structures are already a part of their home.
When it comes to purchasing appliances and furniture, you want to be sure they are equipped to withstand all circumstances. While grills are typically weatherproof, pay attention to other appliances — ovens, refrigerators, and cooktops, to name a few — as well as materials used for decking, countertops, and other surfaces and furniture.
Materials To Use
Some of your best options for a durable, cohesive, and sophisticated finish are brick, stone, tile, and stucco. Natural materials are also a good choice and are easy to maintain. But if you use a porous stone, you’ll need to seal it regularly.
Concrete can work for rustic or industrial styles. It can be poured to fit the exact dimensions of your kitchen.
Other popular options include high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and stainless steel. Both are resistant to water and moisture and make for a modern kitchen space. HDPE and stainless steel — especially 316 marine grade stainless steel — are among the top choices for coastal areas.
Layout
If you’re not sure where to start with your outdoor kitchen, you can look at your indoor one. Most layouts can be configured to an outside space. Just make sure you have enough room and that the layout works with the area.
You should also consider covering your outdoor kitchen with a canopy or pergola and ensure it’s not too far from your house.
Plumbing and Electricity
Speaking of the location of your kitchen, perhaps the most important part is ensuring you have access to water and an electricity source. These are kitchen essentials, so before investing in any part of the building process, know your layout and how your kitchen will work.
Laws and Permits
Before starting any construction, make sure you check in with local officials and find out what the permit requirements are. And, if you are part of a Homeowners Association, you should check the guidelines beforehand.
Get the Best Outdoor Kitchen in
St. Petersburg, FL
Starting a new project can be daunting, but H.E. Feldman & Son strives to make the whole process easy and produce the best possible end result. We work with multiple suppliers and can cater to a variety of different budget requirements, making your dream outdoor kitchen in St Petersburg, FL a reality.
Contact us to learn more about our services and get a free quote today!
