Having your own outdoor bar can be a great way to entertain guests and enjoy the nice weather. However, building a full outdoor bar can be quite expensive. The good news is there are plenty of ways to create a functional and fun outdoor bar without breaking the bank. This guide will provide tips on how to build your own affordable outdoor bar.
Page Contents
Planning Your Outdoor Bar
The first step is deciding what you want your outdoor bar to include. Consider the following:
- What will be the dimensions? Measure the space where you plan to build it.
- Will it have a cover or be open air?
- What features do you want – such as shelves, sink, fridge, etc?
- What will you use for the bar top? Wood, tile, concrete, etc.
- What material will you build the frame and supports from – wood, metal, plastic?
- What is your budget?
It’s important to have realistic expectations when building on a budget. Focus on the essential elements rather than going overboard on fancy extras. You can always add more later if your budget allows.
Choosing Materials
One of the keys to keeping costs down is using inexpensive or repurposed materials. Here are some budget-friendly options:
Wood
- Pallets – can be broken down into boards and supports
- Old fencing
- Scrap lumber
Metal
- Old toolboxes
- Filing cabinets – for drawer storage
- 55 gallon drums – for trash cans
Other Materials
- Old doors or table tops – for the bar top
- Recycled plastic lumber
- Concrete blocks – for supports
- Repurposed sinks or tubs – for sinks
- Barn wood
- Storm windows – for cabinet doors
Check classified ads, thrift stores, construction sites, and trash day piles when sourcing for cheap or free building materials.
Plans and Design
If you want some inspiration, look online or in books and magazines for outdoor bar pictures and plans. Consider the style you want such as rustic, modern, nautical, or tropical theme. Then sketch out some basic plans tailoring it to your space and budget.
Keep in mind standard dimensions for comfort and functionality:
- Bar top height: 42 inches
- Bar top depth: At least 18 inches for setting down drinks
- Serving side width: At least 48 inches for the bartender to work
- Customer side width: At least 24 inches of seating/standing room
Make sure to include any essentials like shelves for glasses and bottles, under bar storage, fridge space, sink with plumbing, and power supply if needed.
Frame and Table
The frame and table can be made from a variety of budget materials like:
- 2×4 wood boards
- Metal pipes or square tubing
- Concrete blocks and lumber
- Plastic landscape edging
Cut costs by keeping the frame simple. Focus on functionality rather than decorative elements. Use screws, bolts, and braces to make it sturdy and level.
For the table top, consider using:
- Plywood or boards
- Old solid wood doors
- Scrap counter tops or old table tops
- Metal toolbox lids
- Concrete precast slabs
Make sure the table top is sealed properly for outdoor use with an appropriate finish depending on the material.
Cover
Adding some type of cover will protect your bar from rain and sun damage. Here are budget-friendly options:
- Tarp – quick and cheap but not very decorative
- Corrugated metal roofing
- Pallet slats
- Thatched roof
- Canvas drop cloth
Get creative repurposing other materials for your roof such as an old door or window shutters. Use removable options to open your bar up on nice days.
| Cover Material | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|
| Tarp | $20-$50 |
| Corrugated Metal | $100-$300 |
| Pallet Slats | $50-$100 |
| Canvas Cloth | $100-$200 |
Interior Elements
Now for the fun details that will make your bar complete. These can often be DIYed from free or cheap materials.
Shelving
Shelves to hold glasses, bottles, and bar tools are essential. Use:
- Old wooden crates
- Planks between brackets
- Repurposed ladder
- Metal pipes and boards
Sink
Having running water at your bar makes entertaining easier. You have a few options:
- Add plumbing for a real sink
- Use a plastic utility sink
- Repurpose an old water trough
- Use buckets for washing that drain into a hole
Ice Bin
To keep drinks cold, it helps to have ample ice on hand. Use:
- Cooler filled with ice
- Metal bucket
- Convert mini-fridge only for ice
Fridge
A fridge to chill alcohol and mixers is very convenient:
- Outdoor specific coolers
- Old mini fridge
- Covered coolers filled with ice and drain
Seating
Provide plenty of seating and standing areas for guests. This can be very cheap by using:
- Old crates and boards as benches
- Logs or stumps
- Tree trunk slices
- Hay bales
- Metal buckets
- Folding chairs
- Wood pallets
Lighting
Proper lighting sets the mood. String up:
- Outdoor patio string lights
- LED fairy lights
- Used paper lanterns
- Tiki torches
Extras
For fun, you can add:
- Chalkboard menus
- Rustic old windows
- Tin roofing decor
- license plates as signs
- Fence wood signs
- Drink dispensers
- Flowers and plants
Putting It All Together
Once you’ve gathered your materials it’s time to start building. Make sure to:
- Level and reinforce the frame
- Measure carefully when cutting and constructing
- Use weather resistant paint and finishes
- Attach top securely to frame
- Add corner braces for stability
- Use hardware meant for outdoor use
Build in stages – construct the structure and top first, then add interior elements after. This allows you to customize and modify as you go based on how much space you have.
Set up proper drainage around bar area and check for levelness again once everything is in place. Use caulk or construction adhesive for any cracks or gaps.
Stocking Your Bar
Once built, it’s time to stock it up with everything you need to host fun gatherings. Shop second hand stores and discount retailers for mixers, glassware, tools, etc. Consider making your own infused liquors, bitters, and syrups.
Make sure to have these basics:
- Ice
- Glassware – pint glasses, rocks, shot glasses
- Bottle openers
- Cutting board and knife
- Cocktail shaker
- Mixers – club soda, tonic, juice, etc
- Garnishes – citrus, olives, herbs
- Napkins and coasters
Then stock the bar with your favorite spirits such as:
- Vodka
- Gin
- Rum
- Whiskey
- Tequila
- Bitters
Remember to store and lock up excess alcohol safely when not in use. Now it’s time to invite friends over and enjoy your new backyard oasis!
Conclusion
Building your own outdoor bar is an achievable project even on a limited budget. Follow these tips to construct a functional and decorative bar using inexpensive or repurposed materials. Get creative with the design and decor to make it your own unique space.
Focus your funds on the essential structural elements then embellish with DIY furnishings and lighting. Scour used goods sources and negotiate deals on material costs. Despite a smaller budget, it’s definitely possible to make an inviting bar area that will be the perfect spot for entertaining outdoors.