Hiring an Outdoor Kitchen Contractor
Crafting the perfect outdoor kitchen is a complex process with many decisions and challenges. Hiring Outdoor Kitchen Contractor Near Me is the best recipe for success, guaranteeing an impeccable outcome and safeguarding your investment.
Most contractors are generalists, capable of handling a variety of tasks competently. However, when it comes to the intricate craftsmanship of an outdoor kitchen, their skill level may fall short.
The contractor you select to build your outdoor kitchen is a huge decision. You want a contractor with solid references and a long track record of creating beautiful outdoor spaces. You want to know how they work with clients throughout the project, from preparing a quote and working up a plan, to applying all of the finishing touches and clean up. A reputable contractor will communicate progress clearly and often, and provide a point of contact you can reach for answers if you have any questions.
A seasoned outdoor kitchen contractor will have experience with the specialized equipment and materials used in this type of work. They can also advise you on appliance placement and layout, as well as any necessary building codes. They may be able to help you avoid costly mistakes that could derail your budget or affect the functionality and longevity of your new space.
Unfortunately, most local contractors are generalists who can handle a variety of different projects proficiently. They can build a patio or a deck, but they probably don’t have the skill set required to create a full-scale outdoor kitchen. Moreover, many contractors don’t understand the safety considerations involved in an outdoor kitchen. The fact is, a kitchen that involves natural gas, open flames and hot cooking surfaces requires special attention to detail.
When you see an attractive outdoor kitchen build in a contractor’s portfolio, chances are that it was shot by a professional photographer with perfect lighting and backdrops. These are the best-case scenarios, and are not representative of a typical client experience. A more telling indicator of a contractor’s abilities is the number of satisfied clients they can provide you with. Ideally, you want to speak with these homeowners to learn about their experiences and how the build has held up over time.
When choosing a contractor for your outdoor kitchen, consider their track record with previous clients and whether they’d recommend them. An online search can reveal a lot about a contractor’s reliability and how they work with their clients. Look for sites that don’t allow businesses to modify their reviews so you can get an unabashed view of the whole experience.
Design
The design of an outdoor kitchen is a creative process, but there are practical considerations that must be taken into account. For example, the location of the cook center and the number of sinks and appliances should be well thought out. The area should be sheltered from wind and rain, but still have access to sunlight for cooking and entertaining. Other factors to consider are the climate, local regulations and restrictions, and other yard elements such as pools, hot tubs, flower beds, fences, septic tanks, or buried lines.
Once you find a reputable outdoor kitchen contractor, you’ll need to set up a timeline for the project. Since these specialists are in high demand, it can take some time to get on their calendar. Once they do, they’ll likely spend a significant amount of time on the initial consultation and drafting the outdoor kitchen design proposal. Once the project is approved, it will then be necessary to order materials and appliances.
A reputable outdoor kitchen contractor will use only the highest quality equipment for their builds. This means that you can expect the best results and longevity from your investment. Cheaper options are a bad idea because they won’t hold up to the elements or cooking temperatures.
Once the materials and appliances have been ordered, the construction phase will begin. The contractor will install the cabinets, countertops, and other features as per the client’s specifications. Ideally, the entire kitchen should be completed within a few days to avoid any delays in your food prep and entertainment.
Outdoor cooking and entertainment are great ways to enjoy your home during the summer months. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family dinner, an outdoor kitchen is sure to please everyone. If you’re ready to add an outdoor kitchen to your backyard, call Amber or stop into our showroom and let’s bring your vision to life!
Permits
Depending on your location and the type of outdoor kitchen you’re looking to build, permits may be required. This is a process that will speed up the build of your outdoor kitchen if you hire an experienced contractor that already knows how to navigate local building regulations and zoning laws.
If your project involves sewer, water, electric or gas lines, a permit will be needed. The same goes for electrical wiring, which should be done by a qualified electrician if you’re planning to have any appliances or lighting added to your outdoor kitchen. Make sure that you check with the city’s website for requirements and ask your local outdoor kitchen builder if they know how to handle this for their clients.
Another consideration is the materials your contractor uses for construction. The quality of these materials will have a direct impact on the final design and durability of your outdoor kitchen. Ask your contractor about the types of materials they’ll use and why they’ve chosen those particular products for your build.
You should also make sure that your outdoor kitchen contractor is properly licensed and insured for their work. This is especially important if you’re hiring them to perform major electrical or plumbing projects. It’s a good idea to get a copy of their license and insurance certificate before you hire them for the job.
