Above: A stunning deck with an outdoor kitchen, in Australia, designed by Breathe Architects
Everyone loves to spend time outdoors, and cooking outdoors, whether it be with a simple grill or using an outdoor pizza oven, is something many enjoy. The warm sun, fresh air, and cool breezes can truly be refreshing and a great way to make a family meal or get together even more special. A deck is a perfect place for an outdoor kitchen, as it is conveniently located for indoor/outdoor entertaining. Because decks are elevated above the ground, they cannot withstand as much weight as a patio, for example, which is directly on the ground. Lets learn some more about adding an outdoor kitchen to your deck, and make that outdoor entertaining area a reality!
Advantages of Outdoor Kitchens on Decks
Take a look online at some of the options for outdoor kitchens at sites such as rtaoutdoorliving.com. The possibilities are endless, and there is a kitchen for everyone! One of the advantages of installing an outdoor kitchen on a deck is that the deck is generally near the indoor kitchen. Because the kitchens are so close together, the outdoor space won't need as much in the way of appliances. Owners will have easy access to the inside kitchen right from the deck, though it is a good idea to plan a spot for storing grilling equipment outdoors. Another benefit of putting an outdoor kitchen on a deck is that the deck and the home usually share a wall, so wiring and electrical work will likely be simpler because there will already be available wiring within the wall. If not, wiring can always be brought from under the deck from a basement or lower level.
Problems with Outdoor Kitchens on Decks
The biggest problem with outdoor kitchens on decks is the weight of the kitchen. Outdoor kitchens often contain materials that aren't used indoors, such as brick, stone, and wood. These are heavy and can cause problems for a deck. Homeowners can still build an outdoor kitchen, but they will need to use lighter materials and fewer appliances than they might like. Electrical wiring, water lines, and gas lines are also complicated when added to a deck.
Homeowners that want to include a range hood in their outdoor kitchen should consider putting their kitchen on a patio rather than a deck. The outdoor-rated hoods are very heavy, and they should be mounted to an overhang or roof.
Another problem with decks is that they often aren't covered. A covered kitchen provides shade and protection from the elements for guests. A deck cover also protects a kitchen from rain, snow, and sun. There are many options for covering a deck, but they can be expensive.
How Much Weight Can a Deck Handle?
Homeowners can determine how much weight the deck can hold by first calculating the square footage of the deck. The load that will be put on the deck is calculated in pounds per square foot (PSF). Homeowners can calculate the total load that a deck can hold by multiplying the square footage of the deck by 50 PSF. So, a 100-square-foot deck will hold 5000 pounds of weight. Please do check with an experienced contractor that will take a look at your deck, to ensure that it can handle the desired load.
Think About Safety
To prevent fires on a deck, do not store combustible materials under a deck. Keep the deck clear of debris, garbage, and leaves. If grilling on a deck, sweep the area first. Flying sparks can touch leaves or debris and quickly start a fire. The grill should always be several feet from the house and away from deck railings.
Homeowners who love entertaining and who are ready to take their deck to the next level should consider adding an outdoor kitchen! Be sure to carefully plan and consider the pros and cons of various options before beginning any major work to ensure a safe and enjoyable outside space. Enjoy, your dream can be a reality!
