What material can I use outside for a bar?

When choosing materials for an outdoor bar, there are several key factors to consider such as durability, weather resistance, maintenance, cost, and aesthetics. The ideal outdoor bar material will be able to withstand exposure to sun, rain, snow, and temperature fluctuations while still looking great. By carefully selecting the right materials, you can create a stylish and functional outdoor bar that will last for years.

Weather Resistance

Since an outdoor bar will be fully exposed to the elements, you’ll want to choose a material that can hold up to sun, rain, snow and other weather conditions. Some of the most weather-resistant options include:

• Teak – Teak is a tropical hardwood that contains natural oils, making it highly resistant to moisture, mold, mildew and sun damage. It has a stylish grain and color that looks great outdoors.
• Marine-Grade Stainless Steel – Stainless steel is extremely durable for outdoor use. Opt for 316 marine-grade stainless, which has increased resistance to corrosion.
• Concrete – Concrete is versatile, affordable and withstands weather well. Look for concrete mixes intended for outdoor use.
• Composite Materials – Composites like Trex are a blend of wood fibers and plastic designed to be weather-resistant while looking like real wood.
• Aluminum – Anodized aluminum has a protective coating that increases corrosion resistance. It won’t rust or peel but may fade over time.

Durability

An outdoor bar needs to be durable enough to handle frequent use and some abuse. The material should not warp, crack, chip or deteriorate easily. Some exceptionally durable options include:

• Stainless Steel – Stainless steel is one of the most durable materials for outdoor bars. It won’t crack under pressure and resists corrosion.
• Granite – This natural stone is incredibly hard and scratch-resistant. It stands up well to heavy use.
• Concrete – Concrete is designed to be long-lasting and unaffected by sun, rain and other exposure.
• Teak – In addition to weather-resistance, teak is highly durable and can last 50+ years outdoors.
• Aluminum – With proper maintenance, aluminum can last for several decades without corrosion or deterioration.

Low Maintenance

You’ll want to choose a material that doesn’t require a lot of regular care and maintenance to keep it looking nice. Low maintenance options include:

• Teak – Teak has natural oils that help it resist moisture, mildew and pests. Just occasional sanding and re-oiling is needed.
• Composite Materials – Composites resist moisture, staining, mold and mildew. Just wash occasionally with soap and water.
• Plastic/Acrylic – Plastic needs very little maintenance besides cleaning. It won’t crack, peel or require sealing.
• Stainless Steel – Wipe down stainless steel with soap and water to keep it clean. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Aluminum – Anodized aluminum just needs occasional washing. Use touch-up paint on scratches.

Cost

Price can be a major factor when choosing materials for an outdoor bar. There are budget-friendly options as well as higher end materials. Some cost considerations include:

• Wood – Cedar and pressure-treated pine are inexpensive wood options. Higher grades like teak cost more but have greater durability.
• Plastic/Acrylic – Plastic bars and components provide an affordable outdoor option.
• Aluminum – Raw aluminum is moderately priced but thinner gauges keep costs lower.
• Stainless Steel – More affordable than granite but pricier than other metals. Shop sales and clearance items.
• Concrete – Concrete mix and molds are inexpensive. Stylish textured and stamped concrete increases the price.
• Granite – Natural granite bar tops are high-end investments. Synthetic materials replicate the look for less.

Aesthetics

The look and style of your outdoor bar is also an important consideration. Pick materials that match your desired design aesthetic. Some options include:

• Wood – Choose wood like cedar, teak or pressure-treated pine for a traditional, rustic look.
• Stainless Steel – Brushed stainless steel lends an elegant, modern style.
• Stone – Granite and other natural stones create upscale, luxurious bars.
• Concrete – Concrete can be stamped or textured for cool, contemporary styles.
• Tile – Durable ceramic or porcelain tile comes in endless colors and designs.
• Composite – Composites offer realistic wood looks with less maintenance.

Recommended Outdoor Bar Materials

Here are some of the best material options to consider for outdoor bar construction:

Teak Wood

Teak is one of the best woods for outdoor use. It has a beautiful grain and coloration and naturally resists moisture, mold, mildew, and UV damage. Teak is extremely durable and can last 50+ years with proper maintenance. Use it for bar tops, fronts, shelves, and accents.

Marine-Grade Stainless Steel

Marine-grade 316 stainless steel is perfect for outdoor bars. It has excellent corrosion resistance and durability. Stainless steel works for bar tops, sinks, cabinetry, legs and hardware. Brushed finishes look modern and sophisticated.

Concrete

For permanent backyard bars, concrete is an ideal choice. It’s affordable, durable and weather-resistant. Today’s textured and stamped concrete creates all sorts of stylish looks. Customize with color stains and embedded accents.

Composite Lumber

Composite materials like Trex are made from wood fibers and plastic to provide a realistic wood look with total weather-resistance. Composites work well for bar tops, facings, shelves and cabinet doors. Choose a finish resembling your favorite wood species.

Aluminum

Anodized aluminum resists corrosion and provides a durable yet lightweight material for outdoor bars. It’s easy to cut and form into bar tops, edging, legs and rails while holding up well outside. Go for sleek modern designs in aluminum.

Ceramic or Porcelain Tile

For a cool custom look, tile your outdoor bar top and facade with durable ceramic or porcelain tiles. Tiles come in a huge range of colors, shapes, styles and designs. Use mosaic tiles, beautiful patterns and bold colors.

Natural Stone

Granite, marble, travertine and other natural stone create upscale, high-end outdoor bars. While expensive, natural stone is extremely durable for the long haul. Consider smaller slabs of stone for just the bar top or face.

Plastics and Acrylics

For affordable and low maintenance bars, plastics and acrylics are great choices. Look for UV-resistant types designed for outdoor use. Acrylic bar tops provide a polished look that resembles glass.

Design Considerations

Keep these tips in mind when designing and building your outdoor bar:

• Select weather-resistant materials like stainless steel, teak, concrete, composites, stone and plastics.
• Ensure proper drainage with a slight slope so water runs off the bar top surface.
• Include an overhang or awning to provide shade and protection from rain.
• Allow space between the bar and wall for ventilation and air circulation.
• Use Rustic materials like wood and stone for a natural, earthy look.
• Incorporate lighting such as pendant lights or strip lighting for nighttime use.
• Consider cabinets, shelves and storage to keep bar supplies organized.
• Incorporate amenities like sinks, ice bins, beverage refrigerators and electrical outlets.
• Choose materials and finishes that coordinate with the overall style of your yard.
• Check that bar stools and chairs work with the planned bar height.

Customizing Your Outdoor Bar

The beauty of building your own outdoor bar is being able to fully customize it. Here are some ideas for putting your personal stamp on your bar project:

• Incorporate materials that reflect your tastes like repurposed wood, handmade tiles, or salvaged barn metal.
• Personalize it with custom laser cut metal or wood cutout signs displaying your name, family motto or establishment.
• Add a distinctive backsplash using materials like metal mesh, sea glass tiles or shells.
• Install a tapped kegerator unit so you can pour your own draft beers.
• Use lighting to create dramatic effects, like a neon bar sign or deck lighting.
• Build a concrete bar top and embed special objects like coins, marbles or personal mementos.
• Display memorabilia like license plates, sports paraphernalia or travel souvenirs on shelves.
• Extend the bar facade to create useful storage cubbies, ice bins and glassware racks.
• Select bar stools in fun colors or unique materials like metal tractor seats.

The options are endless when it comes to putting your own creative stamp on an outdoor bar. Make it a DIY project and build exactly the bar you’ve been dreaming of for your backyard paradise!

Conclusion

Choosing the right materials for an outdoor bar requires carefully considering weather-resistance, durability, maintenance, cost and style. Top-rated choices include marine-grade stainless steel, teak, concrete, composite lumber, anodized aluminum, ceramic tile, natural stone and UV-resistant plastics and acrylics. Any of these materials can create a gorgeous and long-lasting outdoor bartending station when properly constructed. Don’t limit yourself to just the bar top either. Get creative with different materials on the bar facade, backsplash, shelving, cabinetry and embellishments. With the right combination of materials and a little DIY spirit, you can build the ideal outdoor bar for entertaining in your own backyard.