Creating an Outdoor Kitchen

Creating an Outdoor Kitchen

TOM: Cooking outside is the hottest trend in yards and gardens, and more affordable than you think. Here are some tips to creating an outdoor kitchen at your home. Hi, I’m Tom Kraeutler.

LESLIE: And I’m Leslie Segrete with today’s Money Pit home improvement minute.

TOM: To start, rolling kitchen islands are perfect for outdoor cooking prep. Or, for a more professional look, add a granite or tile surface to block pavers. Aim for a work surface that’s 36 inches high: the standard height for comfortable food prep.

LESLIE: A wood-fired stove lets you grill without the hassle of propane or gas. Smokers are another popular outdoor cooking method.

TOM: You’ll need easy water access, not just for prep, but for cleaning up as well. Consider a hose-powered sink that can serve all season long but be easily disabled for winter.

LESLIE: Finally, an outdoor rated small refrigerator keeps those salads and sides cool, and keeps you from running back and forth between your house and your yard. Creating an outdoor kitchen also saves time on cleanup.  I’m Leslie Segrete.

TOM: And I’m Tom Kraeutler. For more Money Pit home improvement tips, visit moneypit.com.