An outdoor kitchen allows you to cook and entertain outside, bringing the comforts of an indoor kitchen outdoors. When designing an outdoor kitchen, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right base material. The base creates the foundation for the entire outdoor cooking area.
Some key considerations when selecting an outdoor kitchen base include durability, appearance, cost, and ease of installation. The base must be able to withstand the elements year-round and support the weight of cabinetry, appliances, and countertops. You also want to choose a material that complements the aesthetics of your backyard. Cost and installation requirements may also factor into your decision.
There are several suitable materials commonly used for constructing outdoor kitchen bases. Each has their own advantages and disadvantages.
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Concrete
Concrete is one of the most popular choices for outdoor kitchen bases. Here are some of the pros and cons of using concrete:
Pros:
- Extremely durable – Concrete withstands heavy use and harsh weather exceptionally well.
- Versatile – Concrete can be poured into nearly any shape or contour needed for your unique outdoor kitchen design.
- Long-lasting – Properly installed and cared for, concrete will last for decades.
- Fireproof – Concrete is non-combustible, making it safer around grills and open flames.
- Cost-effective – Concrete is relatively affordable compared to other base materials.
- Minimal maintenance required – Concrete doesn’t need regular sealing, staining, or refinishing.
Cons:
- Prone to cracking – Concrete naturally cracks over time. Cracks can worsen due to freeze-thaw cycles or improper curing.
- Staining/discoloration – Spilled foods, grease drippings, and chemicals can stain concrete.
- Hard, slippery surface – Concrete can be slippery when wet and unforgiving to dropped glasses or plates.
- Difficult DIY install – Pouring and finishing concrete well requires skill and experience.
- Adds weight – Concrete is extremely heavy, requiring a stable, compacted substrate.
Overall, concrete stands up well to heavy use and provides a seamless, durable surface for outdoor cooking and entertaining. Maintaining and sealing the concrete periodically can help minimize cracking and staining issues. Hiring a professional concrete contractor is advised for best results.
Pavers
Pavers offer a versatile, decorative option for outdoor kitchen bases. Here are some benefits and drawbacks of using pavers:
Pros:
- Attractive appearance – Pavers come in a huge array of styles, colors, textures, and patterns.
- Easy DIY install – Pavers do not require special skills and can be installed by homeowners.
- Allows drainage – Spaces between pavers let water drain through to prevent puddling.
- Low lifetime cost – Pavers are relatively inexpensive to buy and install initially.
- Easy to modify – Pavers can be removed and replaced if you later alter the layout.
- Provides traction – Textured pavers are less slippery underfoot than smooth concrete.
Cons:
- Can shift/settle – Pavers may move out of alignment over time and need realigning.
- Can stain – Like concrete, spills can discolor some natural pavers.
- Weed growth – Weeds can sprout up between pavers if not properly edged.
- Less durable – Concrete pavers crack more readily under heavy loads.
- Uneven surface – Grout lines between pavers create a slightly uneven cooking surface.
Overall, pavers offer a stylish yet budget-friendly base option. Allowing for gaps between the pavers during installation and maintaining weed control is important. Concrete pavers are best for durability.
Bricks
Like pavers, bricks can create an attractive, classic look for an outdoor kitchen. Here are some upsides and downsides of using bricks:
Pros:
- Timeless, traditional appearance
- Many styles, colors, and patterns available
- Relatively low cost
- Can be installed by DIYers
- Permeable surface allows drainage
Cons:
- Less durable than concrete; prone to cracking and chipping
- Uneven cooking surface due to grout lines
- Can become wobbly and out of alignment over time
- Efflorescence (whitish powder) can appear on bricks
- Prone to staining from spills
- Can allow weed growth between bricks
In summary, bricks offer charming traditional style at a reasonable price point. Their weaker durability makes them better suited for a lightly used outdoor kitchen area. Maintaining the bricks and joints properly is key to preventing erosion or weed issues.
Natural Stone
For a luxurious, upscale outdoor kitchen, natural stone is a prime choice. Here are the main pros and cons of using stone:
Pros:
- Beautiful, unique aesthetics from natural variations
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Withstands high heat
- Available in wide range of colors and patterns
- Doesn’t require sealing
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Very expensive, especially for rarer or imported stone varieties
- Challenging for DIYers to install properly
- Heavy weight requires solid foundation
- Some porous stones prone to staining
- Can crack or chip if subjected to hard blows or improper installation
- Seams between slabs must be properly sanded and sealed
Natural stone provides unmatched beauty and luxury for an outdoor kitchen. Proper installation is vital to preventing long-term issues with cracks or stains. Being prepared to make a sizable investment is key when selecting high-end stone materials.
Ceramic or Stone Tile
Tile offers another eye-catching option for outdoor kitchen bases. Here’s an overview of the benefits and considerations when using tile:
Pros:
- Broad range of looks from simple to ornate
- Stain, scratch, and fire resistant
- Comes in many sizes for design flexibility
- Durable and easily cleaned
- DIY friendly for experienced installers
- Allows for drainage between tiles
Cons:
- Uneven surface from grout lines
- risk of cracking, chipping, or loosening of tiles over time
- Grout requires periodic sealing
- Relatively high installation cost
- Improper installation can lead to short lifespan
Tile enables great customization options, with looks ranging from stone or wood plank textures to intricate mosaics. Proper subfloor prep and grout sealing is essential. Using a tile designed for outdoor use is key.
Comparison Table
| Base Material | Durability | Appearance | DIY Friendly | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete | Excellent | Neutral | No | Low |
| Pavers | Good | Many styles available | Yes | Low |
| Bricks | Fair | Traditional styles | Yes | Low |
| Natural Stone | Excellent | Elegant, upscale look | No | High |
| Tile | Very Good | Many design options | With experience | Medium-High |
Key Considerations By Base Material
When selecting an outdoor kitchen base, keep the following key factors in mind for each material:
Concrete
– Best left to concrete professionals for proper pouring and finishing
– Cracking and staining risks can be minimized with proper concrete mix, curing, and sealing
– Heavier weight requires poured concrete footings and secure substrate
Pavers
– Allow for drainage gaps between pavers during layout
– Use heavier concrete pavers for best durability
– Keep edges constrained to prevent shifting
– Seal to reduce staining
Bricks
– Select bricks rated for outdoor use
– Allow small gaps between bricks for drainage
– Seal bricks and joints properly to prevent erosion
– Install on sand or gravel base for stability
Natural Stone
– Select stone rated for outdoor use and confirm suitability for kitchens
– Pay close attention to proper installation requirements
– Softer, more porous stones are lower maintenance but more prone to etching/staining
– Have design professionally drawn for custom stonework
Tile
– Use tiles rated for exterior use; porcelain is a common choice
– Consider slip resistance for safety underfoot, especially when wet
– Allow for drainage between tiles
– Use appropriate waterproof backerboard and subflooring
– Use modified thinset and grout suitable for exterior applications
Conclusion
There are several great options for creating a durable, beautiful base for your outdoor kitchen. Consider how heavily the space will be used along with your budget, design tastes, and DIY skill level. Concrete delivers the toughest foundation for the lowest cost, but comes with cracking and staining concerns. Pavers, bricks, stone, and tile provide attractive options with good durability when properly installed. Connect with a knowledgeable landscape designer or contractor to ensure your new outdoor cooking space gets built upon the optimal base for long-lasting enjoyment.