Gabrielle Desmarais – RTA Outdoor Living

Weatherstrong Cabinets: 7 Top Considerations Before You Buy – RTA Outdoor Living

Gabrielle Desmarais — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 17:10:39 +0000

You want to get an outdoor kitchen… but there’s a problem.

You live in an area that’s got rough weather conditions. Whether it’s snowy winters, salty oceanside air, blistering high heat, or you’re in the hurricane belt… you might have just about given up on your outdoor kitchen dreams.

Because… what’s the point of spending all this time building an outdoor kitchen if the weather’s just going to ruin it in a couple years?

It’s a perfectly valid question.

You need an outdoor kitchen that’s strong in all environments. Something like… Weatherstrong, perhaps? (It’s right in the name, after all!)

Is Weatherstrong really as durable as they claim to be? Are they a great outdoor kitchen solution? Well, that’s what you’re about to find out.

In this article, you’ll encounter an in-depth review of Weatherstrong cabinets. And by the end… you should know if they’re the right fit for you or not.

Without further ado, let’s dive in.

Quick Links:

The Run-Down on Weatherstrong’s Construction Method
Finishes, Countertops, and Door Colors: What are Your Options?
Weatherstrong Appliance Selection: What’s Compatible?
Is Weatherstrong Built for All Weather Conditions? We Take a Closer Look
2 Safety Considerations You’re Not Thinking About
Weatherstrong Business Model: How Can You Order?
Weatherstrong Cabinets Reviews to Assist Your Decision
A Sleeker Alternative to Weatherstrong

Weatherstrong Construction Method

First and foremost… how does a Weatherstrong outdoor kitchen come together?

Weatherstrong is a modular outdoor kitchen solution.

And if you’re not familiar with modular islands… worry not, we’ll explain!

Unlike an outdoor kitchen that’s built from scratch from a contractor, piece by piece… modular islands are shipped to your door as units for personal installation.

They’re normally flat-packed, and you screw all the individual pieces together… just like you would for a set of indoor cabinets.

The modular system is also a little different in terms of design.

Rather than working with a designer to create a fully customized layouts… you’re limited to a select variety of units that you choose and arrange as desired.

That said, Weatherstrong is a bit more customizable than your typical modular outdoor kitchen.

While there are limitations on appliances and layouts… you do have access to quite a few finishes and door styles.

Speaking of which… let’s take a closer look at the aesthetic options.

Finish & Countertop Options

The functionality of your outdoor kitchen is important… but so are aesthetics!

If you don’t like the look of your outdoor kitchen… there’s not much point in continuing to pursue the project.

Thankfully, Weatherstrong offers quite a few styles that are likely to tickle your fancy.

Cabinet Styles

In total, Weatherstrong offers 4 unique cabinet styles: Daytona, Miami, Sanibel, and Tampa.

And really… the only differences seen here are on the door faces!

Some have more grooves… others have less grooves… and in the case of the Miami series, the door faces are perfectly smooth.

Overall, not much to report on here!

Finish Colors

Weatherstrong’s finish colors are where you can start to get dangerous.

They offer a set of “wood grain” or solid color finishes.

The wood grain options are just as they sound… they’re slightly mottled to appear like real wood.

In total, 7 wood grain hues are offered. These range from white, to beige, to gray, and nearly black. Teak, weatherwood, and whitewash appear to be 3 of the more popular options.

On the solid color side, there’s even more selections available… rounding up at a nice even 10.

Neutral tones match what you’ll find in the wood grain series… plus a couple shades of blue and a nice, emerald green. Shell white and pitch black appear to be the most popular hues in this style.

Countertops

Here’s where things get a little unclear.

Whether it’s on Weatherstrong’s website or a product page on Home Depot or Costco… there’s no mention of countertops anywhere.

Which leads us to believe that Weatherstrong does not include countertops with their product.

We can’t 100% verify this… so be sure to reach out to Weatherstrong if you’re considering a purchase.

If no countertops are included, that means you’ll have to source them yourself.

Is it the end of the world? Well, no. However, it is an additional step that introduces some more friction into the planning process.

But of course, your outdoor kitchen is more than just cabinets and countertops. What can you expect for appliance selections?

Looking for Something More Tailored to You?

Our free online design tool has everything you’re looking for in an outdoor kitchen... and more.

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Appliance Selections

When it comes to appliances… We must admit, Weatherstrong outdoor cabinetry is also quite vague on this front.

Normally, when you work with an outdoor kitchen company… they’ll let you know what appliance brands are compatible with their product.

In this case, there’s no indication of brand compatibility on their website. That said, cutout dimensions are made available… so you can do a little sleuthing to figure out if the grill you want to buy will fit in the structure.

At the same time, it’s also important to know what appliances Weatherstrong can actually accommodate.

Their online product guide only mentions having cabinets for grills, side burners, and kamado smokers… but pictures in the gallery reveal islands with sinks and refrigerators as well.

So you should be able to cover all the basics with your design… but once again, you’ll need to contact Weatherstrong for full details.

Still with us? Now, let’s take a gander at materials.

Weatherstrong Cabinets Materials

Is Weatherstrong truly weather-strong?

Unfortunately… things are still looking a bit dicey, even in this area.

With the way Weatherstrong talks about their outdoor kitchen cabinets… you would be led to believe that their islands are constructed with 100% HDPE (high density polyethylene).

Normally, we’d say this is a good sign. HDPE is a marine-grade material that is impervious to rust, corrosion, rot, insect damage… and other issues you would encounter with a wood or metal framed outdoor kitchen.

So what’s the problem here?

Well, these cabinets are not actually made from 100% HDPE.

If you hop on over to their web page titled “The Weatherstrong Difference”, you’ll see what we mean.

Only the door and drawer fronts are described as being made from HDPE.

Which leads you to wonder… what is the rest made from?

The remainder of your Weatherstrong cabinets will be made from 3/4” thick All‑Weatherboard® composite material.

Well that surely clears it up, doesn’t it? Doesn’t it?

To be honest, we’re scratching our heads at this too. That description is about as clear as mud.

In order to get the full answer, you’ll have to do a deep dive into their product guide.

Weatherstrong’s All-Weatherboard® composite material is “crafted from phenolic resins, zinc borate, wax, and wood fibers through a patented process”.

So basically… these cabinets are made from an MDF-type material.

They do at least coat these boards with waterproof PVC edging, but still… this is not a material that will perform even remotely well in the outdoor environment.

It likely won’t take much to punch through that coating, and when it happens… the interior composite material will be exposed to soak up water like a sponge.

This leads to swelling, warping, and quick deterioration of your base cabinets. Not exactly a recipe for success!

And to add insult to injury… we’ve got some serious safety concerns to address with these outdoor kitchens.

Weatherstrong Safety Considerations

Although it’s not spoken about often… it’s essential to consider the safety of your outdoor kitchen. (There are lots of things that could go wrong!)

If there’s no ventilation, your outdoor kitchen could explode from gas buildup… and you also must avoid outdoor kitchens that use combustible materials.

It’s the latter that Weatherstrong runs into some problems.

Remember that composite material we mentioned just a moment ago? It’s highly combustible. (The HDPE is too, but to a lesser extent.)

Which means if your grill gets too hot or you end up with a grease fire… your outdoor kitchen will easily catch flame as well and make the problem 100x worse.

So when it comes to Weatherstrong cabinetry, you’re literally playing with fire. For this reason alone… we believe Weatherstrong’s material choice is unsafe for use in an outdoor kitchen.

That said, we do have to give them credit for including ventilation in their cabinets. Most companies overlook the importance of this… and it’s good to see the need for ventilation recognized.

If you’re still not phased by the aforementioned safety concerns… let’s move forward to Weatherstrong’s business model.

Weatherstrong Business Model

When it comes to purchasing Weatherstrong outdoor cabinetry… there are two different routes you can go down.

You could seek out a dealer in your area, or buy a limited set of modules online. Costco, Home Depot, and Lowes are all online retailers that carry Weatherstrong cabinet boxes.

In fact, Weatherstrong has a unique relationship with Costco that allows you to design a custom island through them. (Only if you are a Costco member, however.)

If you’re not a Costco member or you just want to have a customized experience… it may be best to work with a dealer. Weatherstrong has a dealer locator on their website to help you narrow down the search.

But before you make your final decision… it’s always a smart idea to check out the reviews.

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Weatherstrong Cabinets Reviews

As you know, an outdoor kitchen is no small investment!

With that in mind, it’s important to know what other Weatherstrong customers think about the product.

Unfortunately, Weatherstrong outdoor cabinets reviews are quite sparse. Most retailers don’t have reviews of the product… and there’s no trace of a Google reviews panel for the brand.

That said, there are 128 reviews on Costco’s page for their customizable product listing.

Currently, Weatherstrong is sitting at a 3.9 star rating on this listing… so we’d suggest scrolling through and coming to your own conclusions on the product.

And if you’re still feeling unsure about Weatherstrong cabinets … you may want to consider an alternative solution.

A Sleeker Alternative to Weatherstrong

Looking for something that’s a bit more weatherstrong, in the true sense of the word?

Then your ears are going to perk up when you hear about RTA’s line of modular outdoor kitchen cabinets.

In fact, our U.S.A. made MOKs line is a near-identical swap for Weatherstrong cabinets… just with an upgrade in materials and slightly different design.

MOKs islands are made with 100% marine-grade HDPE (no composite material here)!

Rain, snow, or shine… these outdoor kitchens will hold up beautifully no matter the weather.

So you’re getting the sleek, modern look of that HDPE polymer… without sacrificing quality with the rest of your island.

It’s true that you won’t get a choice of different door styles… but if you’re into the contemporary look, there’s a lot to love about the clean lines on MOKs.

You’re also able to select from 4 stylish colors that’ll make an undeniable pop in your backyard!

And of course, we make sure to keep your safety in mind. Every MOKs island comes with ample venting on all sides of the island… and will come with insulated jackets for all cooking appliances.

Although pre designed layouts are our standard offerings with MOKs… there is some customization potential if you work with a Design Expert.

And if you’re looking for something even more personalized…

Consider Concrete for Your Outdoor Kitchen

While MOKs is an excellent innovation in the outdoor kitchen space… our flagship line remains to be our concrete ready to assemble islands.

Our standard islands are constructed with 100% high performance concrete composite, that’s further reinforced with proprietary fibers… and topped with your choice of a concrete or granite countertop.

It’s about as rock-solid as it gets.

Whether you’re dealing with snowy nor’easters or coastal tropical storms… RTA’s concrete islands will resist and persist, no matter the climate.

Plus, concrete is a non-combustible material. So if the unexpected and unfortunate grease fire breaks out… there’s no worry of the fire spreading to the rest of your island.

And just like with MOKs… RTA’s concrete islands come with ample ventilation in 7 unique locations.

Which brings us to appliances. Both MOKs and standard RTA islands will come part and parcel with appliances from Coyote Outdoor Living.

This premium appliance line features complete 304 stainless steel construction throughout. So not only are they weather-hardy… they’re also heavy-duty and built to last!

These high-quality islands are also completely customizable. Our free online design tool will show you the depth of what’s possible… and our Design Experts can take you even further, if needed.

With RTA, there’s no need to compromise on your outdoor kitchen design. We do everything in our power to make your dream design come to life!

And of course, we can’t wrap this up without mentioning our limited lifetime warranty on the island structure. So for your peace of mind… rest assured that we stand by our product for the long haul!

Ready to take your outdoor living space to the next level? It only takes a few minutes to see what’s possible.

Give our free online design tool a whirl… and our design service will help you bring your dream outdoor kitchen to life!

How to Use a Pizza Oven: Crave-Worthy Pizza in 7 Easy Steps – RTA Outdoor Living

Gabrielle Desmarais — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 13:41:27 +0000

So you’ve gotten yourself a glorious, shiny, new pizza oven… And the excitement is real!

But you’re mustering up the courage to fire up your oven for the first time.

You don’t know how to use a pizza oven yet… And you want to ensure your first pizza night goes off without a hitch.

We understand completely. And don’t worry… We’ve got your back.

Not only do we partner with two different pizza oven manufacturers for our outdoor kitchens… We’ve also got a team chock full of pizza oven owners (including yours truly).

So in this article, we’re pulling from our experiences in every direction… To bring you the most streamlined guide on how to use a pizza oven

By the time you’re through this beginner’s guide… You’ll feel plenty confident about churning out your first pizza pie.

So let’s begin.

Quick Links:

5 Things You Need to Know Before You Get Started
How to Use a Wood Fired Pizza Oven in 7 Detailed Steps
Still Not Confident? 3 Common FAQs
How to Take Your Pizza Oven Game to the Stratosphere

Let’s Set Some Ground Rules

First things first, let’s lay out some ground rules.

Before you dump wood into your oven and get it lit… There are a few other things you need to set the stage first.

Ensure You Have a Proper Oven Surface

It might seem to go without saying… But we’ve seen some pretty sketchy pizza oven setups, and it’s worth clarifying.

Make sure you have a sturdy and safe table for your pizza oven!

No wood tables (1,000°F ovens and wood don’t mix!)… And no teeter-tottering tables allowed.

The last thing you want is a scorching-hot meteorite of an oven to topple over and cause a fire!

A solid metal or concrete stand is exactly what you need. Nothing more, nothing less!

Prep Your Prep Area

So much prep! But it’s so key, dear reader.

When your oven is roaring-hot, it takes only 60 – 90 seconds for your pizza to bake… And you’ve got to be ready for anything. (Quick reflexes are a must!)

So to ensure your reaction time is as quick as a mouse trap snapping shut… You’ve got to have everything you need immediately available to you.

And we mean this in more ways than one.

Firstly, put a prep table right next to your pizza oven. While you could prep your pizzas inside, and haul them out each time… It’s really not worth it. (Ask us how we know!)

You’re making a mess in your house… You’re rushing to get the next pizza ready… Your guests are taking their sweet time to put toppings on… It’s a whole ordeal.

Circumvent all that frantic energy with a prep table right next to your oven.

You won’t have to hunt people down, run around like a chicken with its head cut off… Or worry about burning that precious, precious pizza.

And on that note… Also get that mise en place going (a fancy French term for having all your ingredients set up).

Have your dough balls covered on a sheet pan… Big bowls for cheese and toppings… And already-opened jars of sauce (with a spoon!).

As we said, be ready for everything. And that also includes…

Use the Right Kind of Wood

Wood is wood… Right?

Well, not quite.

Your pizza oven isn’t picky about the kind of wood it eats… But it does have some strong preferences.

In short, stay away from putting softwoods in your oven (pine, spruce, etc.). These are resinous woods that get your oven sticky… And impart some unwelcome, bitter, camphorous flavors to your pizza. Yuck!

Otherwise, as long as it’s hardwood… You’re good to go.

Oak, hickory, cherry… Doesn’t matter.

Hoping to get a specific wood smoke flavor in your pizza?

Well, unfortunately, that’s a bit of a myth. Your pizza cooks so hot and so fast… There’s not enough time for your pizza to get infused with smoke flavor.

Point is, no need to spring for the scarce and pricey stuff if you were hoping for pecan-infused pizza.

Get hardwood… Chop it up into small pieces… Keep plenty of it nearby… And that’s that.

Have the Tools of the Trade Available

Of course, you’ll also need to have plenty of pizza cooking tools on hand. Namely:

An Infrared Thermometer
Pizza Peel
Turning Peel

An infrared thermometer is essential to ensure your oven is heated to the right temperature. But it’s not only important when you first start baking!

Every pizza will cool down your oven a little bit… So keep that thermometer handy to keep track of temperatures between bakes, as well. (No one likes a soggy pizza!)

As for the pizza peel and turning peel… They often get confused, but each tool serves an important purpose.

Your pizza peel is wide and designed for you to be able to pick up your prepared pizza… And launch it into the oven.

The turning peel is smaller… And designed for quick turns of the pizza during baking for an even finish.

Both are simple, yet essential for a perfect pizza pie.

Expect Mishaps... And Course Correct!

Now, you might start thinking to yourself… “Man, this is all getting a little too fussy for my taste.”

We hear you. But once you get your ideal setup, your favorite products, and other ducks in a row… Most of this will become automatic over time.

And most importantly, if this is your first pizza making experience… Have a backup plan in place.

Pizza making may look easy. But there’s a lot of moving parts in play… And a lot that can go wrong.

Point is, it’s likely that something will go wrong during your first bake. So be prepared for this reality… And be ready to order takeout just in case!

There’s few things more frustrating than putting all your eggs into one basket… Only to find you don’t end up with anything edible at the end.

Moral of the story?

Don’t expect perfection… Have grace with yourself… And try again (it will get easier!).

And now that our “ground rules” are setting into a firm foundation… Let’s get into actually using your wood fired pizza oven.

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How to Use a Pizza Oven Like a Professional

You may not be a pizzeria-level chef right off the bat… But we can get you pretty darn close by following these tips and tricks.

1. Get Your Pizza Oven Roaring

First things first. Get your outdoor pizza oven ready and raring to go.

Lighting your pizza oven can be a little tricky… But with some finesse and know-how, it’s not that tough.

Ultimately, there’s a million ways to start a fire… And just about all of them will work for this purpose, as long as it’s chemical-free.

For us, we like to shave some tiny pieces off of a hunk of wood… Get them lit up… And slowly add larger and larger pieces, until a good fire is rolling.

It takes some time, but it’s reliable.

And once your oven is nice and hot… Get the stone preheating to around 600°F – 650°F or so.

This is generally recognized as a well desired temperature for pizza baking… And in our experience, that’s been the case for us.

Next…

2. Set the Stage

Time for that mise en place, folks!

Double check to ensure that you have everything you need readily accessible.

Like we mentioned earlier… Get your pasta sauce out, dusting flour, dough balls, bowls of cheese… You get the idea.

Don’t forget to keep your tools and extra wood handy, too!

3. Prep Your Pizza Dough

Your pizza stone is plenty hot… And your first satisfying bite of homemade pizza is mere moments away.

So get your dough out… Roll it out… Toss it up in the air if you’re feeling brave… And form a nice, meaty crust on the outside edge.

Pro Tip: Make sure you put plenty of flour on your countertop! You want your pizza to slide around and move freely.

Sticking and tearing dough is one of the top pizza-related frustrations. So when in doubt, sprinkle more flour.

For a true Neapolitan pizza… Load it up with pizza sauce made from San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and fresh basil.

Or if you’ve got a flair for the adventurous… Toss on some BBQ rib shreds, pork belly burnt ends, or even brisket!

That’s the glorious thing about pizza. You can make your own pizza… However you want it.

Tomato and mozzarella… Arugula, goat cheese, and prosciutto… Ham and pineapple… There are no rules.

No matter your preference, you’re well on your way to the best pizza of your life.

4. Check the Temperature

After you’ve prepped your dough… It’s time to see if your oven has successfully preheated.

If it’s a lower temperature than 600°F… It’s easy enough to wait a while.

But what if you’ve overshot it? What if your oven floor is way too hot?

It comes down to patience here, as well.

Thankfully, teeny little wood burning oven fires wane quickly… So it won’t take long for that temperature to start to plummet.

Trust us, your patience will be rewarded.

And when that pizza oven is at the correct temperature… Push the wood off to the side, and make room for your pizza to bake. (Or the back, depending on how your outdoor oven is designed.)

But once that home pizza oven of yours is good and ready… It’s off to the fun part.

5. Launch Your Pie

Get ready for lift off!

Shimmy that stunning pizza of yours onto a (well-floured!) pizza peel.

Carefully carry it over to the opening of your pizza oven… And slide it in.

There’s no big secret here. It just takes time and practice to get a feel for it.

But if you take your time and keep it gentle… You’ll probably do alright.

And once the bottom begins to cook after a few seconds… You can use a pizza turner to nudge it into a more central location of your oven.

Speaking of turning…

6. Turn, Baby, Turn

Most wood fired ovens are designed with convection in mind… But there’s no getting around the fact that your heat source is located on one side of the oven.

So to keep that searing high heat from scorching your dough… That’s where the beauty of the pizza turner comes in.

Watch your dough like a hawk… And use the pizza turner to gently nudge your pie in a clockwise or counterclockwise fashion.

You’re essentially acting as a manual rotisserie, ensuring the crust is evenly cooked all-around.

After a minute or two of cooking time… Your crust should be crispy, beautifully blistered, and ready to escape from the oven.

7. Peel it Off, & do it Again

Take that trusty pizza peel of yours and pull that piping hot pizza out of the oven!

Ideally, the countertop is right there so you can drop off the pie in one swift motion… There’s no reason to risk dropping your stunning, fresh pizza!

Once it’s safely sitting on the countertop, slice that baby up and enjoy… Or if you’re hosting a party, serve it up and do it all over again!

They say repetition is the key to mastery… And we can’t think of anything better to practice. (Who could say no to more pizza?)

Well, there you have it. The steps for how to use a wood burning pizza oven.

Even after taking some time to study… You may have some lingering questions that haven’t been answered.

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Still Have Questions?

Let’s tackle them all… One by one.

How do You Cook Pizza Evenly in a Pizza Oven?

It’s all in the turning. Every 10-20 seconds, give that pizza of yours a nice eighth or quarter turn with your pizza turner.

Keep a close eye on it, watching for browning or burning. Also slightly lift up the pizza with your peel to see how nicely the bottom is browning.

Once you’re satisfied with the browning and char… Pull it out of your oven.

How Long do Pizzas take to Cook in a Pizza Oven?

If your ambient oven temperature reaches that classic 900°F… It’ll only take a minute or two for your pizza to cook.

But if your pizza oven is at a lower temperature, it can take 4-6 minutes for a complete bake on your pie.

Watch it constantly, and you’ll be just fine.

How do I Make Crispy Thin Crust Pizza in a Wood Fire Oven?

Ah, the coveted crispy crust. In order to get the texture just right, there are three things you need.

An uber hot oven (900°F) to rapidly form and crisp your crust
A high-hydration pizza dough recipe to compensate for the searing-hot heat
Thinly-rolled dough to avoid the formation of a fluffy and airy crust

These are the general rules… But it will take some tinkering over time to get it exactly the way you want it!

And now that you’ve mastered how to use a pizza oven… What’s the next level to tackle?

Take Your Pizza Oven Game to Another Level

Whether you’re working with an Ooni oven, Gozney, brick pizza oven, or even another brand of portable pizza oven… There’s one thing that takes your pizza making experience to a whole ‘nother level.

Rather than having to fret and fuss about the logistics of pizza oven tables and prep tables… Always be properly set up for your next pizza party with the help of an outdoor kitchen.

It’s the easiest (and most reliable) way to ensure you’ll get full value out of your pizza oven.

Because let’s be honest with ourselves…

How many times have you (or will you) want to make a fresh pizza… Only to decide against it because getting the oven set up is too much of an inconvenience?

There’s no shaming here, we’ve been there too.

But with an outdoor kitchen… You can cut straight to the chase, and focus on the joys of pizza baking.

Your pizza oven has a permanent and aesthetically pleasing resting place… You’ll have counter space for prepping and firing pizzas… And possibly even a bar top for serving.

And that’s just the pizza oven.

With an outdoor kitchen… You unlock the potential for a whole host of other stainless steel cooking appliances. (Gas or propane grill, charcoal grill, pellet grill, or power burner, anyone?)

The options are only limited by your imagination.

And speaking of imagination… Who could help you dream up an unbelievable pizza oven setup like this?

That’s where we come in. Our custom DIY outdoor kitchen system is effortless from start to finish… And an absolute joy to use when you have it in your backyard.

Our islands are made from high performance concrete… Which is plenty safe and sturdy for your oven to sit on!

Our pizza oven stands even come with wood storage! (No need to fumble for a log mid-bake.)

And if you don’t already have a favorite pizza oven… We partner with both Alfa and Coyote for their gas fired and wood fired ovens.

So if you’d like to have the convenience of gas sometimes… A hybrid or gas oven might be the ticket.

But first… Start playing around with your outdoor kitchen design!

Our free online 3D design tool is the perfect place to start.

And from there… We’ll be in touch.

Outdoor Kitchen Cleaning & Maintenance: How to Keep Your Island Good as New in 3 Steps

Gabrielle Desmarais — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 14:59:53 +0000

Whether you’re already an outdoor kitchen owner or not… At some point, you’re going to have to contend with cleaning and maintaining your island.

We all know that outdoor kitchens are a pricey investment.

So in order to keep your backyard upgrade looking as shiny and new as possible… Your island’s going to need some TLC.

And as with most things… There’s more to the topic than meets the eye.

So in this article, we’re uncovering every little detail you need to know about outdoor kitchen cleaning and maintenance.

From countertops, to the appliances, to the island itself… We’re leaving no stone left unturned.

All the information you’re about to read comes from our direct experience. We regularly educate our customers on proper outdoor kitchen maintenance… So this topic is firmly in our wheelhouse.

And to bring that expertise to a maximum… You’ll be hearing from one of our Project Experience Managers, Philip Aldrich.

He assists our customers with this topic and so much more… So let’s get started, shall we?

Quicklinks:

Is Outdoor Kitchen Maintenance Really that Important? Yes, and Here’s Why
Cleaning Your Outdoor Kitchen in 3 Simple Steps
6 Essential Considerations for Outdoor Kitchen Maintenance
To Cover or Not to Cover? Additional Points to Ponder
Hoping for a Low-Maintenance Outdoor Kitchen?

Why is outdoor kitchen cleaning Important?

In our experience, we’ve found that many homeowners don’t fully understand the importance of cleaning and maintaining their island.

Your island is a big, solidly constructed structure. So it should stay in tip-top shape without any effort… Shouldn’t it?

Well, you certainly wouldn’t think about your car in this way.

A well-built, brand new car can usually run up to 300k miles no problem… But only if you take care of it.

If your car doesn’t get a single oil change… You’re going to run into catastrophic problems real quick. (And you can kiss that 300k odometer reading goodbye!)

But you catch our drift.

If you want your outdoor kitchen to run smoothly and look good as new for years to come… Regular cleaning and maintenance is a requirement.

So as far as cleaning goes… What’s involved?

Want to bring your idea to life?

Use our free 3D design tool to bring the outdoor kitchen of your dreams to reality in just a few minutes.

DESIGN NOW

Cleaning Your Outdoor Kitchen in 3 Steps

While it’s true that cleaning is a part of regular maintenance of your outdoor kitchen… In general, cleaning is primarily beneficial for aesthetic purposes.

When it comes to outdoor kitchen cleaning… It’s all about keeping up appearances.

How to Clean Your Island

We have to kick things off with a caveat.

How you should clean your island structure depends heavily on what your outdoor kitchen is made of. Stone, brick, concrete, stainless steel, and powder coat finishes will all have their own quirks.

Our islands are made from high performance concrete, so we’ll be speaking from that perspective.

So if your island is made from a different material… Be sure to check with your builder for proper cleaning recommendations.

In any case, for a concrete outdoor kitchen, the first thing out of Phil’s mouth was:

“Definitely no power washing.”

We’ve all seen those addictive power washing videos online… And it’s truly incredible how much grime this method can erase from a brick wall or patio.

Unfortunately, power washing is far too harsh for most outdoor kitchen solutions.

The intense spray can easily damage your finish and simply is not worth the risk. For most applications, a simple spray with the garden hose is more than enough.

And if you have some trouble spots that need extra attention… A sponge or soft cloth with dish soap is all you need. Something soft is key here.

“Don’t use rough edges, you don’t want to scratch the finish or anything like that”, Phil explains.

So when it comes to cleaning your island… It all comes down to a garden hose, soft sponge, and dish soap. (It’s almost like washing your car.)

Let’s see if the countertops are just as simple.

General Countertop Cleaning Tips for Concrete and Granite

Thankfully, things are much the same over here.

But first, let’s talk about a couple simple ways to prevent stains.

You won’t believe how simple this is.

Treat your outdoor kitchen countertop like your wooden indoor kitchen table.

Sure, your wood table has a protective stain on it… But you know as well as we do that you’ll still end up with water stains if you neglect coaster usage.

Your BBQ island countertop behaves in the exact same manner.

Yes, there’s a seal on it. But the material is still porous underneath… And over time, that seal will wear off.

So using coasters and other similar items will save you a lot of grief right there.

But if a spill or something else happens… Just go back to the good ol’ hot, soapy water and a soft cloth.

Sop it up as quickly as you can… And your countertop should still be looking pretty darn pristine.

But if you’re dealing with “deep staining and leaf staining, I recommend a reseal in that case”, Phil shares.

We’ll come back to countertop resealing in the next section… So worry not, we’ll get back to this!

Before we move onto cleaning appliances… Here’s one last word of caution for your outdoor kitchen countertops.

Don’t use it as a cutting board!

It might seem like it can handle it… But you’ll be scratching your countertop all over the place. And that’s not a good look.

Alright, now let’s move to outdoor kitchen grill cleaning.

Tips for Cleaning Appliances

Last but not least… How about those lovely stainless steel appliances of yours?

Our outdoor kitchens come with 304 stainless steel appliances from Coyote… So thankfully, the process is quite straightforward.

But there is one key thing you’ll need to avoid doing.

Don’t scrub your appliances with harsh abrasives like steel wool or a wire brush. It might not seem like a big deal… But this can create scratches and scuff marks that are quite unappealing to look at.

But as you’ve come to expect, the solution is quite simple.

To keep your stainless steel grill and appliances looking shiny and impressive… Once again, a sponge and soapy water is going for the win here.

It’ll easily eradicate fingerprints and help stave off rust.

But if you really want to make those appliances sing… “We always recommend Bar Keepers Friend”, Phil says.

This product is specifically formulated for cleaning stainless steel. So really, you can’t go wrong there!

And if you run into a little rust… Bar Keeper’s Friend also sells a kit to take care of that properly. Throw on a stainless steel approved polish after, and your appliances will be looking good as new.

Sound good so far?

Well… We still have the maintenance side of things to deal with.

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The Rundown on Outdoor Kitchen Maintenance

All the cleaning steps we just outlined should be completed on a regular basis. When things are starting to look a little dingy… It’s time to clean.

But you also have some less frequent maintenance tasks to keep on the docket. Most of these only need to be done once or twice a year… But they’re essential not to forget.

Cadence of Re-Sealing Countertops

While it’s true that your countertops will come with a fresh seal on them… Over time, this will wear off and need to be re-applied.

So how do you know it’s time to reseal your countertops?

As with most things, it depends.

Our customers have the choice between concrete and granite… So again, we’ll be speaking from that perspective.

Either way, both materials will give you a sign when it’s time for a reseal.

When to Reseal Concrete Countertops

At minimum, you want to make sure you’re resealing concrete countertops once a year.

But depending on your climate and frequency of use… It might need an extra application or two.

If you notice your concrete tops are becoming scratched or getting a lot of water marks, it’s time for a reseal.

But the importance of maintaining your countertops goes beyond the simple scratches or water marks.

As Phil put it, “Resealing will increase the longevity of the aesthetics. After a while your concrete will look faded, and there will be some cracks. If you take good care of it, the appearance of the natural wear and tear will be significantly delayed”.

Just like us humans… Concrete isn’t immune to the signs of aging. But you can stave it off for quite some time with proper care.

And as for what sealant to use, we generally recommend Ovation for our concrete tops.

When to Reseal Granite Stone Countertops

As for granite countertops, you’ll also want to reseal them once or twice a year.

To know if it’s time for a reseal… There’s a nifty trick called the “water test” you can try.

Either leave a few drops of water, or a wet paper towel on your granite tops for about 10 to 15 minutes.

If the water soaks into the countertop and darkens it… You’re ready for a reseal.

This means that your granite countertop is becoming more porous, making it less resistant to stains. A reseal will quickly bring things back into order.

Not sure which sealant to use? If you’re an RTA customer, just give us a shout! Otherwise, your granite fabricator will have a specific recommendation for you.

Deep Cleaning Your Built-in Grill

Now, what about your trusty built in grill?

Unsurprisingly… This is another once-a-year task, at minimum.

“Do a deep clean every year for grills. It helps keep the burners nice and clean and prevent clogging.”

It’s also smart to keep your grill clean for safety reasons. Whether it be a charcoal, pellet, or gas grill… Food grease will build up over time. And if you let it go too long, this could make your grill prone to a grease fire. (Yikes!)

Either way, deep cleaning your grill is easy to do. It just takes some time.

You’ll want to do a quick wipe down around the edges of the grill to start.

Then, you’ll remove your grill grates and flame tamers or ceramic briquettes. Knock off any debris that easily comes off, and then give them a more significant brush off. (Use a grill-safe brush made from nylon, not metal!)

Then, you’ll put your flame tamers (or ceramic briquettes) and grill grates back inside, top side down.

Turn all your grill burners on high, and let it sit with the hood closed for about 15 minutes. This will allow all that food buildup to burn off.

Once you’ve let it cool fully… You might as well clean the exterior of your grill and apply a polish. Good as new!

Winterize Your Sinks

Live in a cold climate? If the winter months in your area are dominated by a deep, sweeping freeze… Winterizing your sink is going to be a necessary task.

What’s the risk?

Well, if you’ve ever had your pipes freeze and burst… You’ll know exactly what the risk is.

Lucky for you, this couldn’t be easier. In fact, Phil explains it in a single sentence.

“Just drain the lines and turn off the water”, he says.

It only takes a matter of minutes to care for your outdoor sink. Just set a reminder so you won’t forget!

Bring in Your Fridge During the Winter

Your outdoor refrigerator also isn’t immune to the harshness of old man winter.

Compressors and other electronic components can get a little iffy as the temperatures plunge below freezing… And to ensure a long lifespan, it’s worth putting your fridge under shelter during the winter months. (Coyote actually specifically recommends this.)

“It’s not a life or death situation, but better to do it if you can. Lines will drain on their own and not be susceptible to cracks when turning it on the following spring”, Phil explains.

As long as you’ve got a dolly… It’ll be pretty easy to cart your fridge to safety for a few chilly months.

Cover Your Appliances

When it comes to covering your outdoor kitchen appliances… We’d consider this to be an ongoing, consistent type of maintenance.

Whenever you’re done grilling for the day and the grill has cooled off… Slap on an appliance cover for your grill.

Simple, yet effective. (That’s what we like to see!)

While it may not seem like it does much… An appliance cover does provide a barrier to the elements. Particularly if you live in a coastal climate with salty air.

An appliance cover will provide that extra barrier for corrosion and rust resistance… Keeping your investment looking pristine for that much longer.

Phil also recommends to “get a full-sized cover if you’re not going to use your outdoor kitchen for a couple weeks, or if you know a storm is coming.”

Which leads us to our next point…

...And Cover Your Island!

You might be a little confused here. We’re already recommending specific appliance covers… Why do you also need an island cover?

Well, those wonderful outdoor kitchen cabinets of yours also benefit from some extra protection.

This is especially true for all you northerners out there… Braving those cold, frosty winters.

During the winter, an island cover “gives you a little bit of barrier for freeze thaw. If you don’t cover your island, you’re getting direct snow and ice onto it”, Phil shares.

Now, it’s important to note that RTA outdoor kitchens in particular are extremely resilient to freeze thaw.

So although an RTA island can weather the winter problem-free sans cover… It’s still a nice touch to keep things looking fresh and new for longer.

You’d be surprised how much a layer of fabric makes a world of difference in terms of protecting your investment!

Starting to feel a bit more confident?

There’s a bit more to understand about island covers before we wrap up.

Additional Notes on the Topic of Covers

An outdoor kitchen cover is just a piece of fabric. How complicated could they really be?

Well, we’re just full of surprises today.

Materials for Your Island Cover Matters

Now that you understand how important BBQ grill island covers are… You’ll also need to know that you can’t use just any cover.

The materials matter.

You might think that a completely waterproof cover is going to be the smartest choice. Rain and melting snow won’t be able to permeate through… So that’s the best option, right?

Well…

As Phil put it, “You don’t want to trap moisture under there. This can lead to mold, mildew, island discoloration, and paint issues”.

If you choose the wrong kind of island cover, you might think you’re doing the right thing… But you end up creating more problems for yourself. Ugh.

Keeping this cautionary tale in mind… That’s why we recommend breathable island covers. (We work with CoverPros in particular.)

Breathable material prevents the issue of trapped moisture… While also still providing a robust physical barrier for your island structure.

Can I Skip a Cover if I Have a Gazebo?

Now, here’s something else you might be wondering.

If you’ve got an overhead structure like a gazebo or pavilion… Is an island cover still necessary?

“While it provides a lot more protection than open air, I would still treat it the same. If anything, a full sized cover in a storm might not be necessary”, Phil explains.

Redundancy, folks.

A gazebo will protect your island from rain, snow, and ice. But if you can add an extra layer of protection with minimal effort… Why not just go for it?

You’ll get additional protection from wind and salty air if you live near the ocean… And for a small additional cost, it’s well-worth the peace of mind.

And that’s all there is to it!

Reading all this may make maintaining a grill island seem like a real pain in the rear-end… But the vast majority of these tasks only take a few minutes, once or twice a year.

Even so, you might be looking for a way to put in the least amount of time possible.

Looking for a Low Maintenance DIY Outdoor Kitchen?

Although there’s a baseline level of maintenance required to keep your outdoor kitchen in tip top shape… It’s true that some islands will require more care than others.

Stainless steel outdoor kitchens will need far more careful attention to prevent rust and corrosion… Stucco loves to crack… And tile islands are prone to pieces falling off after a while.

So what outdoor kitchen solution comes with the least amount of headaches?

It’s got to be a ready to assemble outdoor kitchen.

Our grill island solution is manufactured with high performance concrete composite… And designed to be a frameless system.

Frameless?

Let’s step back a second.

Most outdoor kitchens are constructed with many layers. Metal or wood frames, cement board, mortar, and then the actual finish itself.

Each additional layer adds another point of failure where things can go wrong. And the more you increase your risk of problems… The more maintenance you’re going to have to stay on top of.

So at RTA, we flip this concept on its head.

Our outdoor kitchens are completely frame-less… Being poured into a single, solid, monolithic layer.

There’s no point of failure where things can go awry. And we can’t forget that these islands are made from concrete that’s rated for 100 years. These things have got some staying power!

Corrosion, rust, swelling, warping, and insect damage are all a non-issue… Allowing you to remain focused on the necessities of outdoor kitchen cleaning and maintenance.

Oh, and did we mention RTA outdoor kitchens are backed by a limited lifetime structural warranty?

Let’s just say we’re in it for the long haul.

Well, what do you think? Are you ready to take your outdoor living space to the next level?

If so… Check out our free online design tool to begin creating your own custom design.

And from there, we’ll be in touch to bring your dream (and low maintenance) outdoor kitchen to life.

Happy designing!

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Rustic Outdoor Kitchen: 5 Radiant Ideas & Design Principles

Gabrielle Desmarais — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 18:21:37 +0000

You’re looking to add an outdoor kitchen to your backyard… But not any ol’ design will do.

Whether your backyard is already filled with farmhouse-style charm… Or you’re dreaming of string lights and potted plants…

You won’t take anything less than a rustic outdoor kitchen.

Lucky for you, it’s easy to infuse a rustic aesthetic into your BBQ island… As long as you know what you’re looking for.

And that’s where we come in.

As a prominent outdoor kitchen company… We’ve designed thousands of outdoor kitchens over the years, many of them rustic.

In fact… Some of our finishes are designed specifically to match the rustic aesthetic. (But that’s neither here nor there.)

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know for designing a rustic outdoor kitchen… And get to view multiple examples to inspire your creative mind.

With all that said, let’s begin.

Quicklinks:

Boiled Down to the Essence: 3 Factors in Rustic Outdoor Kitchen Design
Smart Decor Choices to Decorate Your Rustic BBQ Island
5 Jaw-Dropping DIY Rustic Outdoor Kitchen Ideas to be Inspired by
Square One for Securing Your Rustic Grill Island

What Makes an Outdoor Kitchen Rustic?

The beauty of an outdoor kitchen is that it can be molded to your exact desires.

And when you’re after a rustic look… There are several elements to keep in mind.

The finish, appliances, and countertop all play a role in how your island will appear.

The key is to dial in all these elements… So the result is an undeniably rustic style outdoor kitchen.

Rustic Island Finishes

The most prominent feature of a rustic island will be the finish.

By far, it covers the most surface area… So this is the most important piece to nail.

Thankfully, this is quite easy to achieve.

Wood, brick, and stone finishes are far and away the best options for a rustic look.

All of the above will fit right at home in a modern farmhouse… Or any other aesthetic that puts a homespun touch at the forefront.

And the nice thing is… Wood, brick, and stone can be tailored to the exact design you need.

There’s an abundance of different types of wood, stone, and brick out there… Truly allowing you to take a carte blanche approach to the aesthetic.

So the look is solid… But the trouble is, some of these options have problems from a material perspective.

Want to bring your idea to life?

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Issues with Rustic Island Finishes

We’ll just say it right out of the gate.

Brick and stone are excellent masonry options (albeit expensive)… But real wood is an absolute no-go for an outdoor kitchen, no matter how rustic.

This is true on several levels.

Most importantly, wood is an unsafe choice for use in an outdoor kitchen.

You’re surrounding a grill (that can reach temperatures in excess of 1,000°F) in a highly combustible material.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to understand the issue here! There’s no other way to spin it… A wood outdoor kitchen is a serious fire hazard.

But safety aside…

Wood is also a poor choice if you want your island to last for decades.

Wooden islands are susceptible to rotting, warping, swelling, and termite damage. So it’s only a matter of time before your island shows its age… And encounters significant structural issues.

So does that mean the wooden look for your rustic island is off the table?

Not necessarily. There are ways to get the look of a wooden outdoor kitchen… Without the wood. (But we’ll circle back to that later.)

For now, let’s turn our attention to appliances.

Rustic Outdoor Kitchen Appliances

Appliances are where the rustic outdoor kitchen design can get tricky.

Why?

Because there’s a bit of a discrepancy between achieving a true rustic look… And the availability of the appliances themselves.

Copper and brass outdoor kitchen appliances are undoubtedly the most authentic. Over time, they’ll develop a patina and grow ever-more into that rustic look.

But they’re rare to find. You might be able to find a copper outdoor kitchen sink or faucet… But good luck getting a copper grill!

Plus, being unprotected in the outdoor environment… Brass and copper will require more involved upkeep.

So what does that leave you with?

Stainless steel. More specifically, 304 stainless steel.

This material is built to last in the outdoor environment… And won’t rust or corrode on you. (It won’t develop a patina, either.)

The only ding is that it won’t be a perfect match for that authentic rustic design.

That said… These appliances are readily available, high quality, and you’ll have a consistent look for your island.

However, there’s also a couple appliances that actively detract from a rustic look.

Avoid wine coolers with glass doors and bright blue LED lights… Or anything with bright LED lights, for that matter.

This will push your island toward the contemporary end of the design scale… And that’s not what you’re after.

At the same time… There’s also a couple out-of-the-box appliances to consider to meet that homespun feel.

Unique Appliances for a Rustic Look & Feel

A true rustic outdoor kitchen goes beyond its shallow exterior.

It’s also about getting that rustic feel when you’re using it.

And there are a couple excellent appliances out there to help you achieve it.

Namely, a pizza oven or a kamado smoker.

We’ll start with the pizza oven.

Particularly if you spring for a wood-fired option… There’s no better way to connect directly with our primitive, fire-managing instincts.

The rollicking, piping-hot fire is the epitome of a rustic cooking experience.

And we’ll also mention… You don’t need to limit your pizza oven to slinging pies.

Depending on the model you choose… You can also bake artisan bread.

That experience is a surefire way to directly connect to the village bakers of old. And you’ll quite literally end up with a rustic loaf of bread!

It’s a similar concept with a kamado smoker.

You’ll manage a fire with charcoal instead of wood… But the billowing clouds of smoke will set the stage for a rustic, homey feel.

And the food you can make in a kamado is absolutely incredible. For example…

Smoked mac and cheese and brisket are that stick-to-your-ribs type of comfort food to really bring that rustic feel home.

Aside from the feel… Some pizza ovens and kamado smokers actually do have somewhat of a rustic look.

If you do some shopping around… You’ll find models without all the glitz and glamor, favoring a more unsophisticated feel.

Alright. Now that you’re acquainted with rustic outdoor kitchen appliances… There’s one factor remaining to consider.

Rustic Countertop Options

How are you going to “top off” your rustic BBQ island?

It all comes down to your outdoor kitchen countertops.

There’s a great many options to choose from… And conveniently, most of them will be right at home with a rustic aesthetic.

Concrete, granite, stainless steel, and tile are the most common materials you’ll encounter.

In particular, concrete and granite are both fantastic choices.

They exude a rustic feel… And are extremely durable in the outdoor environment. You won’t have to fuss much about maintenance, either.

But stainless steel and tile are a different story.

Stainless steel is plenty durable… But it just doesn’t work for a rustic aesthetic.

You can get away with stainless steel appliances, but if you also spring for a steel countertop… The rustic look will get all but completely lost.

Tile is the exact opposite.

Tile countertops can strongly contribute to a rustic look… But they’re a fragile choice.

Tile countertops crack and pop off easily… And the grout is nearly impossible to keep clean and sanitary.

Moral of the story?

You can’t go wrong with concrete or granite.

Now that you’ve learned how to zero in the rustic look of your island… How about some decorations?

Rustic Outdoor Kitchen Decor

While keeping all of the above design principles in mind will allow your rustic outdoor kitchen to stand on its own… If you really want to sell the look, the right decor will be important.

So let’s talk about some rustic decorating ideas.

If you’ve got plenty of counter space… It’s a smart idea to adorn your island with potted marigolds, sunflowers, and other rustic flowers.

Same goes for lighting. Warm light from a flickering candle or lantern will seriously level-up the homey vibe.

You can also go for table settings and towels with subtle, nature inspired hues. Olive drab, burgundy, and goldenrod are all excellent choices to experiment with. (These colors are also stunning for the fall season!)

And speaking of seasonality… It’s also worthwhile to decorate your island with season-appropriate baubles.

Pumpkins and cornucopias are the quintessential rustic decor choices for fall… While a rustic summer look could be pulled off with sunflowers in a mason jar and gingham napkins or hand towels.

But you don’t have to just zoom in on the outdoor kitchen. You can transform your entire space to become a farmhouse-styled paradise… And further enhance the aesthetic of your island.

Adding some wrought iron bar stools or chairs to a bar island are an absolute shoo-in… And sell that rustic feel in full.

An outdoor fireplace or fire pit will further bring that coziness to the fore. It will also give you and your guests the perfect excuse to stay outside all night long!

And to bring it all home… Consider setting your island under the cover of a gazebo or pergola.

Not only are these features rustic in their own right… They can be decorated with string lighting, hanging plants, or any other number of rustic decorations.

Starting to get the picture?

If so… Let’s take a peek at some ideas.

Rustic DIY Outdoor Kitchen

Pick your layout, appliances, and finish to create the perfect look to match your backyard. Use our free 3D design tool to get started today.

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Rustic Outdoor Kitchen Ideas

It’s one thing to read about what an outdoor rustic kitchen looks like… It’s another thing to see it for yourself.

So without further ado… Let’s take a look at some farmhouse kitchen ideas for your inspiration.

Rustic Farmhouse Outdoor Kitchen Idea

There’s no other way to put it. This brick outdoor kitchen is a stunner.

In fact, it checks nearly all the boxes for a classic rustic BBQ island!

Of course, you have the reclaimed brick finish. Going for white over red gives this island a rustic, yet solidly refined look.

This homeowner also opted for clean edge granite countertops to fully seal in that rustic sophistication.

The granite itself provides the lovely rustic element… But with a polished, clean finish.

And it just so happens that this island includes both of the rustic appliances we mentioned earlier!

Starting from the left, we have the spacious pizza oven.

We’re sure you could easily imagine yourself tossing in a delectable pizza (with all your favorite toppings)… And sinking your teeth into that first gooey, addictive slice.

And when this photo was taken, it appears to be a picturesque fall day.

It’s the perfect setting for baking a rustic loaf of bread… And slathering the fruits of your labor in a thick layer of European butter, as it melts into the open crumb.

Looking back to the island… The kamado smoker is over to the far right.

All manner of smoked delights are at your fingertips… Plus, you’ll get that undeniable rustic feel of managing a fire.

But even if you’re not feeling up to the task… This island has a gas grill and power burner for easy and quick cooks.

All in all… This rustic outdoor cooking space is one for the books.

Key Takeaway:

If you’re interested in a modern farmhouse vibe… Consider using a white brick over the traditional clay red. You retain the rustic feel, while also bringing in a modern touch.

Quaint, Country Style Rustic Outdoor Kitchen

This small outdoor kitchen area is simply oozing with an abundance of rustic charm.

The greenery, small dining area, (and the adorable corgi!) certainly capture your attention… But let’s hone in on the outdoor kitchen for a moment.

As you can see, this homeowner opted for a weathered wood finish on their island.

But wait… Isn’t wood a bad material for your outdoor kitchen?

Yes.

However, this outdoor kitchen is not made from wood. It’s made from concrete!

Had you fooled, didn’t we?

Anyway… The “wooden” finish on this island is right at home with the rustic aesthetic. It also matches beautifully with the exterior of the home, yet enhancing it at the same time.

And despite being decked out with stainless steel appliances… This outdoor kitchen doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb at all.

You’ll also notice that this homeowner has an Ooni outdoor pizza oven tucked into the side. (Although, it’s not part of the kitchen!)

Taking a step back… Just about everything in this outdoor living room gives off a rustic vibe.

Potted plants and greenery completely surround the space… And the pendant lighting gives off a nice glow of warm light.

Not to mention, the bistro table provides a tasteful pop of color to bring it all together.

There’s also a coziness just due the fact that this is a small space. Certainly, you can easily imagine yourself curling up to a cup of coffee and a nice book… Or perhaps just enjoying an afternoon tea with a friend?

Either way… There’s no doubt in our minds that this is a rustic space to keep at the forefront.

Key Takeaway:

Surrounding your outdoor kitchen with greenery makes your island feel more rustic… And also creates the illusion of it becoming a part of the natural environment.

Covered Rustic Outdoor Kitchen

Looking to put your rustic outdoor kitchen cabinets under cover?

You’ll want to look closely at this example!

Like the previous idea, this island features a weathered wood finish… But this time, it’s with an umber hue, rather than ash.

And we have to say… It’s a perfect match for the wooden pavilion it’s sitting under.

But first, let’s take a closer look at this patio kitchen.

This island is outfitted with several stainless steel appliances, including an outdoor refrigerator.

But what’s really unique here is the hybrid grill.

This appliance is essentially a dual grill head… With a charcoal grill on the left, and gas grill on the right.

So you can get the convenience of gas… But switch over to charcoal when you want some more rustic fare.

We’d even go as far as to say that the charcoal grill side even looks a bit rustic!

The wrought iron chairs and dining table solidify that farmhouse look… And it’s brought to completion with that wooden pavilion we mentioned.

Without the roof, this outdoor kitchen area would still be rustic in its own right… But the pavilion adds that wow factor. (You know what we mean?)

No matter what you’ll be cooking up… The rustic feel clearly shines through here.

Key Takeaway:

A stunning wood pavilion, gazebo, or pergola will greatly enhance the rustic feel of your outdoor kitchen. This structure sets the stage for a homespun feel… And you can always enjoy grilling, rain or shine.

Southwestern DIY Rustic Outdoor Kitchen

Rustic doesn’t always have to mean that you’re giving off a farmhouse feel.

Depending on where you live… Rustic could mean something quite different!

And this southwestern backyard couldn’t be a more perfect example.

There’s nothing about this outdoor living space that screams “farmhouse”… But it does scream rustic.

It all starts with the stacked stone outdoor kitchen. It’s got that rugged, weather-worn look to it we all know and love.

And although the appliances are stainless steel… The natural look of this island wins out handily.

This is also helped by the homeowner’s selection of chiseled edge, brown concrete countertops. That chiseled finish brings further continuity to the rustic stone look.

Plus, the cabinetry itself features understated decorations that really take things up a notch.

The outdoor bar has a delightful set of under-counter lighting… Firmly selling that southwestern rustic charm.

We’d also be remiss not to mention the wooden bar seats, which further add to the rustic flair… And fit right in with the desert landscape.

Zooming out a little… The tiled dining space, golden sand colored chair cushions, and paver patio all add to that southwestern rustic look.

So if you’re looking for a rustic outdoor kitchen with a southwestern twist… This is a space to watch out for.

Key Takeaway:

Every locale has a unique spin on the rustic look. Don’t be afraid to include design elements unique to your location. Not only does this create greater harmony between your design and the environment… It also makes the aesthetic personalized to you.

L-Shaped Rustic Outdoor Kitchen Paradise

Let’s wrap up the list with a design idea you won’t soon forget!

Just about everywhere you look… The rustic aesthetic is on full display.

But as usual, let’s begin with the outdoor kitchen.

Just like the previous example… We’re presented with a stacked stone island in a terra brown hue.

Yet, it’s giving off a completely different rustic feel. (Which speaks to the versatility of this finish!)

This grill area is giving off a fantastic refined farmhouse vibe… Complete with a stainless steel built-in grill, flat top grill, outdoor sink, refrigerator, pull out trash… And even some access doors.

The overhead lean-to matches beautifully… And still allows an abundance of sunlight to shine through.

But what really gives this area the chef’s kiss of perfection… There’s a square fire pit that identically matches the outdoor kitchen finish.

It’s a small touch… But one that truly makes this space a standout.

But going beyond the outdoor kitchen island… There’s even an outdoor dining and seating area under a stunning gazebo.

The curtains give this area an easy-breezy vibe… And also provides an intimate atmosphere when the curtains are closed.

Other small details include the rustic paver patio… And a stone waterfall to enhance the refined rustic aesthetic.

All in all?

This alfresco cooking area is truly a model for rustic design.

Key Takeaway:

Go beyond making your outdoor kitchen rustic. Truly transform your outdoor patio area into a full-on rustic paradise. You and your guests will feel fully immersed in the rustic vibe… And you’ll enjoy your outdoor kitchen space that much more.

Your Rustic Outdoor Kitchen DIY: Step One

After learning just about everything there is to know about a rustic outdoor kitchen… You’re probably chomping at the bit to get started with your very own island!

So allow us to share with you where to get started.

What’s step one?

It depends on your answer to this question:

How did you feel about all the outdoor kitchens you saw in this article?

If you’re head over heels in love with the aesthetic… You’ll be glad to know that you can recreate the same exact thing in your own backyard. (With hardly any effort!)

Every island you saw today is a ready to assemble outdoor kitchen from RTA Outdoor Living. (That’s us!)

Our outdoor kitchens are made with high performance concrete that’s rated for 100 years… Backed by a limited lifetime structural warranty… And can be customized to match the exact rustic feel you’re looking for.

Weathered wood, stacked stone, reclaimed brick are all classically rustic finishes fully at your disposal.

Not to mention… It couldn’t be easier to customize your rustic outdoor kitchen plans.

Every year, thousands of people create their outdoor kitchen plans with the help of our free online design tool.

In just mere minutes… This intuitive tool will guide you through creating your ideal rustic BBQ island design.

And by the end, you’ll be presented with a full 3D rendering of your dream island.

We’ll guide you every step of the way from there… But let’s not get ahead of ourselves!

Start creating your rustic outdoor kitchen, and we’ll be in touch.

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What is a Pellet Grill? 7 Astounding Perks & Why to Buy

Gabrielle Desmarais — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 14:14:55 +0000

You’re in the market for a new grill… And you’ve been hearing a bunch of hubbub about pellet grills.

They’re not like the gas or charcoal grills of old, you’ve heard…

But you’re still not really sure what they’re all about.

Which is making you wonder…

What is a pellet grill?

It’s an important question to ask. With all manner of pellet grills dominating the market these days… You don’t want to miss out on a good thing.

So in this article, we’ll be detailing everything you need to know about a pellet grill. What they are, how they operate, benefits, comparisons… The whole deal.

But first…

Why should you trust us to speak on the topic?

Several reasons.

We partner with a premium pellet grill manufacturer and we understand their product at an intimate level… We’ve reviewed and compared several prominent pellet grill brands… And many of our team members own and operate a pellet grill on a regular basis!

So let’s just say… We’ve got it covered from all sides.

Ready to dive in?

Quicklinks:

What is a Pellet Grill? And How Do They Operate?
7 Astounding Benefits of a Pellet Grill You Haven’t Heard of
5 Surprising Drawbacks to Keep in Mind
The Best Dishes to Make with Your New Pellet Grill
But First… Who is a Pellet Grill For?
The Best Pellet Grill to Consider for Your Backyard
How to Better Optimize Your Pellet Grilling Experience

What is a Pellet Grill?

Let’s start with the basics.

What is a pellet grill?

At its core… A pellet grill is a grill that uses wood pellets as its fuel source.

Shocking, we know!

But that’s not the only thing that defines these grills.

Pellet grills also come equipped with fans to bring your grill to a specific temperature. In this way, it works more similarly to a convection oven than a traditional grill.

This opens up a whole world of cooking versatility… But we’ll get to that later.

Now, let’s see how a pellet grill works.

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How does a Pellet Grill Work?

First things first, you’ll be pouring wood pellets into a hopper.

This hopper leads to an auger… Which meticulously transports your pellets into the fire box.

The pellets will be ignited in the fire box, and begin to preheat to your set temperature.

As the fire’s going… Fans will be circulating heat and smoke evenly throughout the grill. This is what creates that convection oven effect throughout the cooking chamber.

Rinse and repeat!

Your pellet grill will continue to go through the cycle of adding more pellets and circulating heat as you cook.

This means you’re able to maintain consistent temperatures without any effort on your part… And achieve tantalizing, smoky flavors!

Which leads us to…

Impressive Benefits of a Pellet Grill

Now that we’ve gotten the order of operations out of the way… How about some fun stuff?

What are the unique benefits of a pellet grill… That you can’t get elsewhere?

Well, let’s take a look.

Versatility is Unmatched

Gas and charcoal grills better step aside… Because they can’t hold a candle to the versatility of a pellet grill!

Let’s be honest…

These days, you expect more out of your appliances. Why get a unitasker grill… When you can get a grill/smoker/convection oven all in one?

That’s what you’re upgrading to when you get a pellet grill.

You can grill burgers and steaks with that classic, wood-fired flavor…

Whip up some hickory smoked ribs that sing with the savor of smoke…

And even bake a tender pineapple upside down cake for dessert! (Or whatever else your heart desires, for that matter.)

Point is, you can truly do it all with a pellet grill.

So if you want to explore absolutely everything the outdoor cooking hobby has to offer… A pellet grill should be a top contender for purchase.

But that’s not all.

Technology Lovers: Rejoice!

New technology gets a lot of love (and a lot of hate), but in the case of your pellet grill… It’s cause to celebrate.

Most pellet grills offer incredible tech upgrades to make your grilling experience far easier.

WiFi or bluetooth connectivity are a prime example.

This allows you to operate your pellet grill from an app on your phone… So you can check temperatures and make adjustments without moving a muscle!

Plus, most pellet grills include meat probes. Which means, you can even check what temperature your meat is without ever lifting the hood of your grill.

Speaking of convenience…

It’s the Pinnacle of Convenience

Thanks to technology, a pellet smoker truly couldn’t be simpler to operate.

You add your pellets, set the temperature you want… And let the grill do the rest.

There’s absolutely zero fuss with managing a fire or fiddling with temperature control.

It’s like driving a car with an automatic transmission, rather than manual.

You still have to actually cook the food (or drive the car), but the rest runs itself.

This grill is as “set it and forget it” as it gets!

Which means…

Pellet Grills are the Most Beginner-Friendly Solution

New to the grilling and smoking world?

While some dishes might seem simple… The reality is, this hobby can often be a lot harder than it looks.

That’s especially true if you’re trying to smoke out-of-this-world briskets or pork butts.

A pellet grill takes a massive amount of stress off your shoulders.

You need hardly any skill or grilling know-how to create a delectable result.

Like we said previously… These smoker grills run themselves.

Set the temperature, follow the instructions of your recipe… And reap the reward!

Obviously, there’s more fine-tuning you can get into.

But for just getting started… There’s no easier introduction than a pellet grill.

It’s also not going to break the bank.

Inexpensive Entry to Hobby

While it’s true that inexpensive gas and charcoal grills are a dime a dozen… Pellet grills offer you a far greater value for your dollar.

These days, you can get a budget pellet grill for as little as $200 – $300.

Will it last you forever? No. But it will give you a taste of what the hobby is like… Without having to sell your kidney for it.

And if you do decide that you’ll be a pellet griller for life… You can upgrade to a premium option without much grief.

Keeps Your Home Cool in the Summer

Here’s a benefit you likely haven’t considered!

During blistering hot summers… The last thing you want to do is heat up your home with the oven or stove.

But a pellet grill can act just like an outdoor oven.

Which means you can still enjoy a warm meal… Without turning your home into a dry sauna!

Our very own Social Media Manager, Lauren Conrad, uses her pellet grill with this intention in mind.

“Living in Arizona, it’s a huge bonus to not heat up the inside of the house during summer. We even cook our son’s frozen pizza and chicken nuggets on it”, she explains.

Smart thinking!

Even if you don’t necessarily have the time to prepare a full meal… You can still save yourself from having to endure a hot kitchen during the dog days of summer.

But you know what the most important benefit of a pellet grill is?

High Quality Results

Wood pellet grills reliably dish out delicious results… Again, and again, and again.

The smoke flavor won’t match that of a true offset smoker… But you will still get a stunning bouquet of smoke on your proteins.

Same goes for grilling. The flavor will easily outperform your gas grill… But it might lag slightly behind a charcoal grill.

And if you’re a seasoned home cook or baker… You’ll be more than pleased with the baked goods a pellet grill can produce.

Seriously, you can have your cake and eat it too.

You’ll get 5 star results, even if you’re not a pitmaster!

And while this all sounds amazing so far (because it is)… There are some downsides to pellet grill ownership.

Drawbacks of a Pellet Grill

The reality is, there is no perfect solution for anything. And a pellet grill is no exception.

While we believe the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages… They’re still worth discussing.

So let’s go through the cons with a fine toothed comb.

Not Every Model Can Sear

While this drawback isn’t universal… Most pellet grills are unable to sear well.

Why?

Unfortunately, many pellet grills just don’t get hot enough. Traeger grills and Z Grills are two critically acclaimed brands that fall into this category.

The vast majority (if not all) of their grills have a maximum cooking temperature of 450°F – 500°F.

These temperatures just aren’t quite enough to get a stunning sear on your steaks.

Thankfully, there are pellet grills that can do both… But we’ll circle back to that later.

Long Lasting Outdoor Kitchen

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Requires Electricity

With all the focus on wood pellets being the fuel source… Often, much not thought is given to how those pellets are ignited in the fire pot.

It’s gotta catch on fire somehow.

And that fire will be ignited with the help of good ol’ electricity.

If you have easy access to electricity outdoors… This won’t be a problem.

But not everyone does!

So keep this in mind before you buy.

Technology is a Double-Edged Sword

Just as technology can be an incredible and convenient time-saver… It can also turn into a frustrating, baffling, time-suck.

And while the WiFi functionality and digital control panels of most pellet grills are fantastic… They can be immensely annoying when things go wrong.

If a part on your gas or charcoal grill fails, it’s simple to replace.

Unfortunately, that’s not so with a pellet grill.

As Lauren put it, “As simple as it is to use, it is more complex to troubleshoot.”

Which means you’ll be at the mercy of the customer service department… And it might be a while before things get fully resolved.

Point is, technology is finicky. (We all knew that, right?)

So while the benefits are well-worth the risk in our minds… It’s still a reality that you’ll be dealing with at some point down the road.

Watch Out for Jams

You can also encounter mechanical issues with your pellet grill. And most likely, this would be caused by the auger getting jammed.

And how would the auger get jammed?

Wet pellets.

As our own DSS Team Leader, Alan Morse, explains, “If your pellets get wet they will jam your auger, and that is a huge pain to fix!”

You’ll end up having to pull out the auger unit and get it unjammed… Which often requires a lot of time and elbow grease.

Thankfully, the issue is simple to avoid as long as you’re vigilant.

Don’t let your pellets get wet!

So that means keep your pellets bone dry before they go into the grill… And don’t leave any in the unit after you’re done grilling.

Humidity in the air will cause the pellets in your grill to swell if left to sit. So just save yourself the headache and keep your pellets dry!

Is Cleanup Ever Fun?

We’d say not. But cleaning a pellet grill can prove to be a bit more labor intensive than other grills.

“You have to make sure to vacuum out the fire pot before each cook to make sure the igniter can efficiently combust the pellets during the startup phase”, Alan explains.

You’ll need to keep your pellet grill squeaky clean to ensure smooth operation!

And unlike a gas grill… Pellet grills will accumulate lots of ash. So you’ll need to clean out the ash tray on a regular basis as well.

Overall, it’s not too complicated. But due to all the aforementioned finicky tech… Taking extra care during cleaning will prevent problems with your pellet grill.

But that’s enough for the cons.

If you’re beginning to get your heart set on a pellet grill, you’ll want to know…

What is a Pellet Grill Good for?

We’ve been hammering home the versatility of a pellet grill… So it’s time to put our money where our mouth is.

How versatile is a pellet grill, really?

In our minds, it’s truly a jack-of-all-trades.

You can grill, sear, smoke, and bake… But let’s demonstrate with some of our team’s favorite dishes.

Our Team’s Favorites

While there’s nothing wrong with the classic burgers and hot dogs… Your pellet grill can accomplish so much more.

On Alan’s side of things… His favorite pellet grilled dish is reverse-seared ribeye steak.

You’ve got stunning smoke flavor, great caramelization, and a beautifully rendered fat cap. (Now we’re talking!)

Our Brand Manager, Jayme Muller, throws a few more tantalizing dishes into the ring.

Her husband is partial to grilled pizza and seared steak… While her favorites are grilled pickle-marinated chicken, grilled seafood, and smoked eggs.

Bet you didn’t see those coming! (Sounds incredible though, right?)

Lauren prefers some lighter fare. She’s been digging all sorts of grilled salads to beat the Arizona heat!

As you can see… The versatility of your pellet grill goes way beyond standard proteins.

Just about any dish you enjoy can be made better with the help of your pellet grill.

Yes, even dessert.

You Can Make What in a Pellet Grill?

You might think smoky flavors and dessert don’t mix… But applewood smoked bacon dipped in pure maple syrup would like to have a word with you.

Seriously though, light pellet smoke can truly take your desserts to another level.

Both Alan and Lauren have baked classic chocolate chip cookies in their pellet grill… With fantastic results.

Jayme’s most unique pellet grill creation was smoked apple pie.

But you can’t just use any apple pie! “We recommend that the baked goods be homemade vs. store bought for optimal smoky flavor”, Jayme explains.

And trust us when we say… It’s worth the effort.

But of course, these aren’t the only desserts you can experiment with. (Smoked pecan pie or cheesecake would be something else!)

We’ll let you daydream about desserts in a moment. But for now… Let’s address a key question.

Who is a Pellet Grill For?

After reading all this… You still might not be completely sure that a pellet grill is the right type of grill for you.

So let’s settle this once and for all.

Who is a pellet grill perfect for?

Our team had several responses that might help you decide where you stand.

Lauren says that “Anyone who loves smoked flavor, but also loves convenience” would do great with a pellet grill.

It’s an excellent point!

Just about all of us love the flavor of slow smoked BBQ ribs… But we also generally don’t want to put in all the effort needed.

A pellet grill offers a near-perfect compromise between flavor and convenience.

Jayme echoes this point by stating, “A pellet grill is for anyone who likes charcoal or smoking, but doesn’t have the time to commit to a traditional option.”

That pretty much says it all.

Pellet grills are perfect for beginner to intermediate grillers that don’t like to fret about the details. You just want consistent, straightforward, and tasty results… Without having to work hard for it.

If you ask Alan, he’ll say a pellet grill is for just about everyone!

When asked who a pellet grill is for, he said, “Everyone. No, seriously. They’re incredible! Unless you’re not that interested in how food tastes/smoking things, and all you make is burgers, I 110% believe you should get one!”

High praise, isn’t it?

Once you get your hands on one… You’ll see what we mean!

But we’re getting a bit ahead of ourselves. Let’s work on getting you started.

Not Sure Where to Start?

Before we let you loose in the wide world of pellet grills… Allow us to suggest an excellent product first.

We’ll be the first to admit that there are a ton of fantastic pellet grill options on the market. Weber, Camp Chef, Traeger, Pit Boss, and Z Grills are just a few of the brands that you’ll encounter.

But few are as well-rounded and capable as the Coyote pellet grill.

Offered in 28” and 36” sizes… The Coyote pellet grill has an astounding set of high-performance features, such as:

Complete 304 Stainless Steel Construction
Convenient, Front-Loading Pellet Hopper
12 lb Hopper Capacity
Digital Touch Control & 3 Meat Probes
175°F – 700°F Temperature Range (Ideal for Searing!)
Heavy-Duty Laser Cut Grill Grates

For these reasons… It’s one of the best pellet grills currently available.

Plus, it just straight up looks fantastic… Doesn’t it?

Another excellent feature of the Coyote pellet grill is flexible installation.

Both freestanding and built-in units are available. But even if you start with a freestanding grill… You can choose to safely install it into an outdoor kitchen in the future.

Speaking of an outdoor kitchen…

The Optimal Way to Enjoy Your New Pellet Grill

Whether you’re slow smoking, high heat searing, baking, or even braising… Using your pellet grill is made even easier when set inside an outdoor kitchen.

Just think about it for a second.

As pellet cookers open up a seemingly endless array of cuisine options… That also means you’ll accumulate a lot of stuff.

Hardwood pellets, meat probes, BBQ utensils, butcher’s paper, aluminum foil, spices, baking dishes… Just go down the list!

Naturally, it’s much more convenient to keep it all outside than haul it in and out of the house.

With an outdoor kitchen… You’ll have plenty of dry storage to keep everything safely stowed away. (And in the right place at the right time!)

But that’s just one problem an outdoor kitchen will solve.

Prepping food for a wood pellet smoker also takes up a lot of space.

A big ol’ pork shoulder will quite literally be a table hog… And most pellet grill shelves simply don’t offer enough real estate.

Which leaves you no choice but to precariously place everything on a rickety shelf… And hope that nothing gets knocked over.

A summer kitchen will make this issue a thing of the past.

The countertops will run for what feels like miles long… And you can breathe again, knowing there’s a solid place for everything to sit.

An outdoor kitchen also allows you to add even more convenience and versatility to your backyard.

Now, there’s room to consider pizza ovens, side burners, refrigerators, drop-in coolers… Possibly even a kegerator.

Which means you’ll spend more time outdoors, more time using your pellet grill… And will probably be hosting a lot more barbecues with loved ones!

Starting to see where we’re going here?

If so, we’ve got just the thing for you.

Play around with our free online design tool to see what your pellet grill outdoor kitchen could be like.

It won’t even take 5 minutes of your time, and if you’re interested in going deeper… Our design team will be in touch.

Well, what are you waiting for?

Start your design!

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BBQ Smoker: Best Options of 2025, Expert Reviewed & Tested

Gabrielle Desmarais — Sun, 23 Jul 2023 17:53:18 +0000

Whether you’re an aspiring pitmaster or a casual griller… No one can deny the irresistible, insanely-addictive flavors that a genuine BBQ smoker can produce.

There’s a reason why delicately smoked proteins are always the most coveted dishes at a barbecue.

The delectably crispy bark… The richness of the melt-in-your mouth rendered fat… And the bouquet of smoke flavor always leaves you wanting more.

Since you simply can’t get the thought of an impeccably-smoked protein out of your mind… It makes sense why you’re after a BBQ smoker of your own.

You’ll have unfettered access to incredibly smoked dishes whenever you like… Cooked to your exact standard.

But in order to achieve the best barbecue of your dreams… You need the right equipment.

That’s what we’re on a mission to find.

In this article, we’ll discuss popular BBQ smoker types… And the best options on the market for 2025.

Let’s get smoking.

Quicklinks:

What Type of Smoker is Right for You? Overview of 5 Popular Options
From Budget-Friendly Starters to Luxury Splurges: Best BBQ Smokers of 2025
How to Get the Most Out of Your New BBQ Smoker

What to Look for in a BBQ Smoker: Build Type

To guide us through the ever-complex world of barbecue smokers… We’ve enlisted the assistance of a highly-skilled barbecuer, Ethan Fullenkamp.

He spent about 4 years in competition BBQ circles… Primarily participating in local and state competitions.

Smoking beef is Ethan’s speciality, with dino ribs taking the crown as his favorite BBQ item.

So if you’re a “Beef. It’s what’s for dinner” type of person… You’ll particularly love Ethan’s perspective here.

So, what type of smoker should you be considering?

Pellet BBQ and Smoker

PELLET GRILL

ASADO SMOKER

It’s no secret that pellet smokers have taken the industry by storm in recent years… And all signs point to this being far more than just a fad.

The main reason for this?

Convenience.

“The person that’s looking for more convenience and wants that smoky flavor, but still wants to be able to produce a lot of the BBQ items they see on TV or YouTube, I recommend pellet grills”, Ethan shares.

BBQ pellet smokers are as close to foolproof as it gets when it comes to smoked food. You add pellets, set your target temperature, insert a meat probe… And just wait.

“You don’t have to tend a fire, you don’t have to maintain those temperatures, it does that for you”, he continues.

Plus, you get the benefit of being able to use your pellet smoker as a grill. The dual purpose of this grill is not to be understated, especially if you’re short on space!

Ethan recalls, “I haven’t used a gas grill for probably 5 years now. I use a pellet grill for all of my grilling and smoking needs”.

There’s no doubt a pellet smoker is a capable (and convenient) multitasker… But what about offset smokers?

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Offset BBQ Pit Smoker

If you’re after competition-grade barbecue… An offset smoker is what you’ll be after.

These smokers are fueled with pure wood, and the fire box sits next to your food… Hence, the term offset.

Smoke will billow around the chamber, fully circulating around your proteins.

Compared to a pellet grill, “It’s a lot more intricate, but you’re going to get a better product. You will have more smoke flavor using real wood and an offset smoker than you will with a pellet grill”, Ethan explains.

If the best possible flavor is your primary goal, there’s nothing better than an offset smoker.

But just know this… Convenience is out the window here.

Ethan says, “It takes a lot more attention. You can’t just set it and forget it. You’re tending a fire, making sure you’re maintaining meat temperatures. You’re going more off of intuition than with meat thermometers or whatever your pellet grill is set to”.

So if you’re springing for an offset… Be ready to put in some work! (With worthwhile results).

Kamado Charcoal Smoker BBQ

Looking for a solution in-between a pellet and offset smoker? A kamado charcoal grill might be calling your name.

These ceramic egg-shaped grills are nearly as versatile as a pellet smoker. Fueled by charcoal and through the insulative properties of ceramic… Kamados produce equally impressive results whether you’re grilling or smoking.

As Ethan put it, “Kamados are a really good middle option. It’s going to be better flavor than a pellet smoker, but not quite as good as an offset. The asado type smoker offers a little more convenience, but you still have to manage airflow. It’s a little more interactive and you have to watch it, but you’re not necessarily tending a fire.”

So if you want to take a more hands-on approach without too much fuss… A kamado grill is a worthwhile consideration. (The Coyote Asado, Kamado Joe, and Big Green Egg are great options to look into.)

Vertical Smokers

Another option you’ll encounter is a vertical smoker.

The fuel type is less crucial here… As you can find vertical smokers fueled by wood, charcoal, wood pellets, and propane. (Even digital electric smokers are an option!)

So really, what we’re discussing is how this smoker is actually designed. As you could likely guess… Rather than horizontal, these smokers have a vertical orientation.

What’s the benefit of this?

It comes down to space… And what you plan on smoking often.

“As far as space goes, with a vertical smoker, you can have a lot more cooking space without spending the kind of money for an offset”, Ethan explains.

So if you plan on regularly dishing out massive spreads of barbecue… A vertical smoker will give you the most cooking area for a reasonable price.

And if you plan to smoke a ton of sausage… There’s nothing better than a vertical smoker.

“I used to make my own sausages, and these smokers are fantastic for this purpose”, Ethan shares.

You can easily hang tons of links, and since they’ll be suspended in open air… The entire surface area will be enveloped in smoke flavor.

Gravity Smokers

Gravity smokers are brand new to the smoking scene… Making their debut in 2019 with an offering from Masterbuilt.

But what is it?

These are charcoal-fueled smokers that operate similarly to a pellet grill. There’s a hopper to the side that you’ll fill with either lump charcoal or briquettes.

The fire is digitally controlled and managed with a fan… Allowing you to set the temperature and forget about it!

While still new to the market… A gravity smoker could be an excellent solution if you want the convenience of pellets, but with the more robust flavor of charcoal.

Ready to see the best smokers on the market?

Best BBQ Smokers of 2025 (As Rated by a BBQ Aficionado)

If you’re looking to get a solid start in the world of smoking… You need the right equipment for the job.

So let’s get into the tried-and-true recommendations from our resident BBQ aficionado, Ethan Fullenkamp.

Best Budget-Friendly Starter: Recteq Bullseye BBQ Grill and Smoker

KEY FEATURES

Temperature Range: 200°F – 850°F

Cooking Area: 380 Square Inches

Warranty: 2 Years

Materials: 304 Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel Indirect Heat Plate

Fuel Type: Wood Pellets

Hopper Size: 15 lbs

For the most foolproof way to start smoking without breaking the bank… Ethan recommends Recteq’s Bullseye pellet smoker grill.

“I’ve owned multiple Recteqs, and the Bullseye is my daily driver. It can smoke as low as 200°F, and go all the way up to 850°F”, Ethan shares.

For a pellet grill, this is mighty impressive! A comparable Traeger will cap out at 500°F, making the Bullseye a formidable choice for grilling.

But we’re talking about smoking… And the Recteq performs well here.

“The Bullseye holds temperature very well. I’ve rarely seen a 3 degree swing in either direction, even cooking in the middle of winter in Iowa”, Ethan recalls.

This smoker also offers WiFi connectivity to control temperatures remotely. According to Ethan, it’s one of the best pellet BBQ smoker apps he’s used!

And for an inexpensive, economy grade grill… The build quality is nothing to turn up your nose at, either.

The Recteq Bullseye features 304 stainless steel construction, which is typically only seen in premium and luxury grade grills. 304 stainless steel is highly resistant to rust and corrosion… Providing excellent resilience in the outdoor environment.

However, the indirect heat plate is not constructed with 304 stainless steel… And will require some maintenance on your part as it is prone to surface rust.

Recteq offers a 2 year warranty on this grill, which is certainly on the shorter side. But being a budget model smoker… It’s not a great loss if something goes wrong. (And Ethan’s been using his consistently for 5 years!)

If the size of this smoker is a bit too small… Ethan is also a fan of Recteq’s 700 series, which can smoke several briskets and pork shoulders in one go.

Currently, the Recteq Bullseye will run you $449.00 on Amazon.

Best Budget Charcoal Smoker: Weber Smokey Mountain 22”

Key Features

Cooking Area: 726 Square Inches

Warranty: 10 Years on Bowl, Lid and Center Ring, 5 Years on Plastic Components, 2 Years on All Remaining Parts

Materials: Porcelain Enameled Steel

Fuel Type: Charcoal

The Weber name is a backyard staple across the country… So it’s no shock they’re making an appearance on this list!

If you want a budget-friendly way to test the waters of charcoal smoking… The Weber Smokey Mountain might be for you.

This drum smoker is set up a bit differently than the other options you’ve seen thus far.

The vertical setup allows for two grill grates… And there’s a water pan right above the fire, allowing your protein to stay moist and tender.

Managing the fire is relatively simple, with a damper on the bottom to control airflow.

Admittedly, the materials used in this charcoal smoker aren’t stellar… But that’s why it’s a budget smoker! You won’t be completely put-out if something goes wrong.

That said, the Weber Smokey Mountain is constructed with a porcelain enameled lid, bowls, and center section. Essentially, it’s a type of painted steel.

The coating will work great… Until it chips. And at that point, the interior of your smoker will quickly rust.

With that said, Weber’s warranty is quite good for the price. You’ll get 10 year coverage on the bowl, lid and center ring… 5 years on the plastic components, and 2 years on all remaining parts.

As Ethan put it, “Weber is a really good option, you’re not going to break the bank”.

Currently, you can purchase the Weber Smokey Mountain 22” for $545.51 on Amazon.

Best Step-Up Pellet Smoker: Pitts and Spitts Maverick 1250

Key Features

Temperature Range: 180°F – 600°F

Cooking Area: 1,250 Square Inches

Warranty: 10 Years on the Barrel, 3 Years on the Controller, 1 Year on Remaining Components

Materials: 304 Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel Cooking Chamber

Fuel Type: Wood Pellets

Hopper Size: 35 lbs

Perhaps the ease of a pellet smoker appeals to you… But you want to start with something a bit more robust.

For that, you’ll want to look into the Pitts and Spitts Maverick 1250.

This smoker is quite large, with a 36” wide cooking surface… And a couple quality-of-life upgrades that Ethan particularly enjoys.

“I used to take this grill to competitions, and it has full sized rubber wheels. This makes it phenomenally easy to take anywhere. I could roll it over grass, dirt, gravel, and it would go over anything no problem”, Ethan says.

So if mobility is a key feature for you… The Maverick is an all-terrain smoker.

Plus, it comes with a paper towel holder. So you can keep your station tidy without missing a beat!

Another unique feature is you’ll get access to three grill grates, rather than the standard two.

To demonstrate why this is important, Ethan explains, “On pellet smokers, most of your heat source is coming from the bottom. The farther away you can get that meat away from the direct heat source, the better. When I’m using this smoker, I’ll put the meat on the top shelf and that makes a huge difference with the overall product.”

There’s a lot to love about the construction as well.

Pitts and Spitts offers near-complete 304 stainless steel construction on this model. You’ll just have to keep up with the carbon steel cooking chamber, which is prone to rust.

“The welds on it are phenomenal. It hardly leaks out any smoke, even around the lid”, Ethan recalls.

And to round out this smoker, you’ll get WiFi connectivity and a massive 35 lb pellet hopper.

Pitts and Spitts offers a 10 year warranty on the barrel, 3 year coverage on the controller, and 1 year coverage on the remaining components.

You’ll find this BBQ and smoker combo listed for $2,549.99 on Pitts and Spitts’ website.

Best Pellet Smoker Splurge: Twin Eagles BBQ Smoker Grill

Key Features

Temperature Range: 140°F – 725°F

Cooking Area: 720 Square Inches

Warranty: Lifetime Warranty

Materials: 304 Stainless Steel

Fuel Type: Wood Pellets

Hopper Size: 13 lbs

If money is no object to you, and you want a pellet smoking experience that’s out of this world… The Twin Eagles pellet smoker should sit at the top of your consideration list.

“I’ve had the opportunity to do a couple cooks on it, and my goodness, that was an experience. If you want the best of the best, Twin Eagles is just something else”, Ethan shares.

Talk about high praise!

One of the reasons for this is the impressive temperature range you can achieve on this smoker. Sitting at a 140° – 725°F range… That low end gets you nearly into the realm of cold smoking on a pellet grill. (This is unheard of!)

“What’s so significant about that is you can smoke butter and cheese. It’s not necessarily a cold smoke, but I can put an ice tray right under it so the cheese doesn’t melt”, Ethan explains.

And with the convenience of a pellet grill, if you play your cards right… This could be the most hands-off, pseudo-cold smoking experience out there.

That 140°F low temp also means that your smoker can double as a warming tray for resting your proteins.

“When you’re done smoking a brisket or a pork butt, you want it to rest for 2 hours at an absolute minimum. I used to rest my meat for 8-12 hours in a warming tray. This pellet grill allows you to rest the meat right inside the grill”, Ethan says.

Convenience is the name of the game with the Twin Eagles pellet smoker. Although, it’s not quite perfect.

This grill has a modest 13 lb hopper… So you can’t stray too far before a refill is needed.

That said, the quality of this WiFi enabled smoker is unimpeachable.

Aside from true and complete 304 stainless steel construction… It comes with a super-powerful 120V auger.

Why does this matter?

The auger brings pellets from your hopper to the fire box. The more powerful it is… The longer it will last, and the less likely you will have jams.

As Ethan put it, “If you want something that will last 20 years, the Twin Eagles will last you 20 years. In fact, you’ll probably want to get rid of it before it dies out on you”.

Twin Eagles offers a lifetime warranty on their pellet smoker, but you’ll be paying dearly for it!

The list price on this model is currently $9,269.00 on BBQGuys.

The Perfect BBQ Hangout Spot

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RTA’s Pick: Coyote 36” Pellet BBQ Grill Smoker

Key Highlights

Temperature Range: 175°F – 700°F

Cooking Area: 808 Square Inches

Warranty: Lifetime Warranty

Materials: 304 Stainless Steel

Fuel Type: Wood Pellets

Hopper Size: 15 lbs

We’re going to insert ourselves into the conversation… But rest assured, this is a fantastic (and experience-backed) recommendation!

Coyote’s pellet grill is an impressive premium option for all your BBQ smoking needs.

With a temperature range of 175°F to 700°F… You can pull off both slow-cooked smokes and high temperature sears with ease. (And you get laser-cut grill grates for even more incredible searing.)

The complete 304 stainless steel construction is nothing to scoff at… And actually improves the results of your BBQ smoked dishes.

The Coyote pellet grill comes with a double walled hood, contributing to superior heat retention and improved temperature control.

This smoker BBQ grill is also designed with an effortless front-loading hopper, with a capacity of up to 15 lbs.

Out of the box, you’ll be given three temperature probes as well to ensure all your proteins are smoked to an ideal doneness.

And unlike the majority of the BBQ smokers we’ve mentioned already… The Coyote pellet grill can be used as a freestanding model, or built into an outdoor kitchen. (The Twin Eagles model can do this, too.)

This option offers excellent versatility if you want the added convenience of smoking within a ful BBQ island structure.

Backed by a lifetime warranty… The Coyote pellet grill offers similar features to the Twin Eagles pellet grill, but without the luxury price tag.

Currently, you’ll find the built-in model listed for $3,499.00 and the freestanding option for $4,399.00 on Amazon.

Best Beginner Friendly Offset Smoker: Oklahoma Joe’s Highland

Key Features

Cooking Area: 720 Square Inches

Warranty: 2 Years

Materials: Coated Cold Rolled Steel, Porcelain Coated Grill Grates

Fuel Type: Wood

Now, what if you want to foray into true offset smoking?

To dip your toes into the water… Oklahoma Joe has the thing for you.

The Highland smoker “is a fantastic entry level option to get into actual wood burning offset smokers. The fire pot is small enough to where it’s pretty easily managed. On the barrel side of things, it’s not too big to where it’s going to create a challenge”, Ethan explains.

It’s always a smart idea to start small.

That said, you can still smoke up 6 pork shoulders in a single go!

And when it comes to flavor, Ethan attests to the quality. “It creates phenomenal barbecue”.

Good enough for us!

But as with most budget-friendly starter options… The material durability is a bit lacking.

This smoker is constructed with a coated cold rolled steel, and comes with porcelain coated grill grates. Like the Weber Smokey Mountain… Things are great as long as the coating stays intact.

But once chipping happens… It’s a rust-fest from there on out.

So while this is a great starter option that won’t break the bank… If you end up falling in love with offset smoking, you may want to look to upgrade in several years.

Oklahoma Joe warranties their Highland smoker for a period of 2 years… And you can buy it for $349.00 on their website.

Best Mid-Tier Offset Smoker: Franklin BBQ Wood Smoker

Key Features

Cooking Area: 42” Cook Chamber

Warranty: 3 Years

Materials: 1/4” Thick Rolled Steel

Fuel Type: Wood

Designed by Ethan’s personal BBQ hero, Aaron Franklin… If you’re after the challenge of true offset smoking, this is the BBQ pit for you.

As Ethan says, “Anyone who uses this smoker, if you know what you’re doing, you’re able to get competition-grade barbecue off that smoker.”

With one look at this thing, you can see why!

Renowned pitmaster Aaron Franklin designed every inch of this smoker with his expertise in mind. This comes right down to the door… Which is specially designed to produce a clean fire.

Plus, the chamber itself is designed for optimal airflow and circulation of smoke throughout the interior.

This offset BBQ smoker weighs an insane 625 lbs… Due to the 1/4” thick American-made steel cook chamber and fire box.

And since this is raw steel… The Franklin wood BBQ smoker will require regular maintenance. You’ll want to season your smoker often with oil to prevent rust.

As stated on the website, “Basically, take care of it like you would your grandma’s heirloom cast iron pans”.

This heavy duty BBQ smoker will come with a 3 year warranty… And you can purchase it for $5,150 on the Franklin BBQ Pit website.

Enjoy Your New BBQ Smoker to the Fullest

Getting an idea of which BBQ smoker you want?

No matter what you choose… We’d like to suggest another upgrade to make the slow cooking process even easier for you.

Something that will keep you from running in and out of the house for supplies…

Something that will let you prep your culinary creations right outdoors…

And even serve them to your guests al fresco.

Got any guesses?

It’s an outdoor kitchen.

If you want the most functionality possible… The Coyote Asado and Twin Eagles wood pellet grill can actually be built into your outdoor kitchen.

But even if you choose a smoker that’s not compatible with your BBQ island… You’ll still be reaping the benefits.

You can conveniently handle every part of the smoking process outside… Without missing a single moment.

Just think about the potential.

You could have a sink for handwashing, a refrigerator for marinating meats, and a warming drawer for resting your proteins.

It’s the easiest way to make your smoking experience stress-free.

If you’re curious about how to get started… Check out our free online design tool, and we’ll go from there!

Need Help With Your Plans?

Talk to one of our expert designers and they will guide you from planning to installation. Schedule a call today.

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Pizza Ovens Countertop: 8 Expert-Tested Recommendations, Reviews, & Essential Considerations

Gabrielle Desmarais — Sun, 18 Jun 2023 16:16:26 +0000

Restaurant-quality homemade pizza is one of the most satisfying meals… But historically, it hasn’t been easy to achieve!

In recent history, if you wanted a high performance pizza oven… You would have to build your own stone or brick pizza oven. (Talk about backbreaking work!)

Some countertop ovens were available… But they were either severely underpowered indoor versions, or large and unwieldy outdoor versions. (Not everyone has that kind of space!)

But we’re seeing a true renaissance in the pizza ovens countertop space.

So if you’re in the market for a high-performance, reasonably priced, and comfortably sized countertop pizza oven… You’re jumping in at the right time.

We’ll get into the details of what exactly a countertop pizza oven is, indoor vs outdoor options, and the best pizza ovens of the year.

Let’s get cooking.

Quicklinks:

Pizza Ovens Countertop Defined: The Nitty-Gritty on Prefab Ovens
Indoor vs Outdoor Countertop Pizza Oven Showdown (What’s the Difference?)
5 Reasons Why an Outdoor Oven is Your Best Choice 99% of the Time
The Top Countertop Pizza Oven Contenders for Your Home in 2024
The Single Best Way to Make the Most Out of Your New Oven

What is a Countertop Pizza Oven?

It might seem obvious… But the term “countertop pizza oven” is actually quite broad.

To guide us through the topic… We’ve enlisted the assistance of Derek Gaughan, over at Pala Pizza.

He’s a dedicated countertop pizza oven reviewer, and unlike many blogs you’ll see… He actually tests out the mettle of these ovens!

At this point, he’s tested over 20 unique ovens, and has been cooking pizza at home for nearly 15 years.

With that level of expertise… There’s no one better to educate us on the topic.

So, what’s a countertop pizza oven?

“Countertop pizza ovens in general are broad, and do refer to indoor or outdoor ovens”, Gaughan shares.

And as you’ll discover in a moment… Indoor and outdoor pizza ovens are extremely different!

Yet, there are some similarities.

Generally speaking… A countertop pizza oven will be lightweight, relatively small, and portable.

You can easily put them on your countertop for pizza night… And stow it away when you’re done cleaning up.

And unlike a pizza oven kit… Countertop ovens are fully prefabricated, and ready to use out of the box.

So far, so good? Now, let’s get into the differences between indoor and outdoor countertop pizza ovens.

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Indoor vs Outdoor Countertop Pizza Ovens: What’s the Difference?

Both of these ovens make pizza… What could be so different about them?

Quite a lot, actually!

Indoor countertop ovens will come in a variety of shapes and sizes… And even function slightly differently.

Some operate like a convection toaster oven or air fryer with glass doors and baking pans… While others look like a panini press, but are shaped with a non-stick “pizza stone” instead.

No matter what they look like… All indoor ovens will have electric heating elements.

Let’s contrast this with an outdoor countertop pizza oven.

Again, designs can look fairly different across the board… But they won’t function much differently.

All outdoor ovens will come with a pizza stone, and they will have a small opening to insert your dough into.

Fuel options will be wood or gas… And depending on your needs, many ovens can be converted to be fueled by both. (These are considered hybrid ovens.)

Either way… A hot, open flame will bring forth searing high heat to cook your pizza.

Got the basics down?

From our perspective… 99% of the time, you’ll be far happier with purchasing an outdoor pizza ovens countertop.

Here’s why.

Why Outdoor Ovens are Your Best Bet for Success

Any appliance you decide to purchase for your home should pull its weight.

And while you can spring for an indoor pizza oven… It’s generally not worth your while.

What makes an outdoor pizza ovens countertop better?

They Get Way Hotter

As soon as you start sorting out the specs… It becomes abundantly obvious that indoor pizza ovens are lacking in the temperature department.

For a fantastic Neapolitan style pizza… You want your oven capping out at around 900°F.

An indoor countertop oven simply can’t keep up with that! Most models max out at 500°F.

“Honestly, it’s no different than using your home oven. It reaches a similar 500° temperature. So to me, why buy that when you can just get a pizza steel in your oven?”, Gaughan explains.

What can we say… The logic is sound.

This is especially true if you’re specifically gunning for a Neapolitan pizza.

“Neapolitan style pizza is what traditionally has been the most difficult for someone to make at home. If you try to make it in a kitchen oven, it tends to come out dense with not a good bite at all. Whereas in a 900° oven, it’s the complete opposite. The crust comes out airy, fluffy, and bakes within 60-90 seconds”, Gaughan continues.

An indoor oven just won’t cut it here. But what about other styles of pizza?

NY style pizzas are optimally baked at 600° – 700°… Which most indoor pizza ovens will once again fall short on.

Detroit style pizzas can work in a wide variety of temperature ranges… But again, a higher temperature range is often preferred.

Another area where indoor ovens can lack is size.

They Can be Much Larger

As we’ve already established… Indoor pizza ovens are limited. And those limitations extend to sizes, as well.

Since they’ll have to sit neatly on your kitchen countertop… These appliances can’t be too big.

Therefore, the vast majority of indoor pizza ovens can only fit a 12” pie.

If that’s all you need… That’s great! Many outdoor ovens have the same capacity.

However, outdoor ovens are far more flexible in the size department. Many outdoor ovens can accommodate a 16” pizza while maintaining a small footprint.

If you have extra outdoor space… You could even spring for a larger outdoor oven that can hold 2+ pies at a single time.

But no matter what outdoor pizza oven you choose…

No Indoor Space is Wasted

This is likely one of the most understated benefits of an outdoor countertop pizza oven.

The space inside your home comes at a premium… And every appliance you add to your kitchen clutters it up just a little more.

Plus, an indoor pizza maker is a “unitasker”, as Food Network host Alton Brown likes to call them.

It’s a kitchen tool/appliance that can only do one thing… Taking up precious space that could be better used elsewhere.

And considering that most indoor pizza makers are functionally no different than your conventional oven… You might as well save yourself the space.

An outdoor pizza oven will add to the functionality of your backyard… And you’ve got some great options to choose from!

You’ve Got More Cooking Options

While all outdoor pizza ovens are crafted to create an impeccable pizza… You also have some unique fuel options.

Unlike indoor ovens (which are all electric)… An outdoor pizza oven can be fueled with wood or natural gas. Some ovens can run on liquid propane, too.

Of course, gas and propane are convenient to use. Similar to electric, you turn the dial and preheat immediately!

But if you want a more rustic experience… Wood fired pizza ovens are the way to go. It’s an experience that fully engages the senses.

Many outdoor pizza ovens can be converted to run both fuel types, allowing you optimal flexibility.

You simply can’t do that with an indoor oven. It’s electric… Or bust.

Better (and More Delicious) Results

We’ve somewhat touched on this in the temperature section… But it’s absolutely true.

An outdoor countertop pizza oven makes better pizza. Period.

Outdoor ovens will give you that thin, crispy crust… Perfectly bubbling, molten cheese… And a satisfying bite an indoor oven can’t replicate.

And not to beat a dead horse, but it really comes down to the temperature!

If you’ve ever tasted a fresh, wood-fired pizza yourself… You’ll know this truth to be self-evident!

So if you’re going to take the leap… You may as well go for the gusto.

That said, let’s review the best countertop pizza ovens out there.

Perfect countertop pizza ovens

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The Best Countertop Pizza Oven Reviews of 2024

Time to do some window shopping. This roundup includes the best-of-the-best countertop ovens for 2024… At least one of these will be calling your name!

Best Indoor Oven: Breville Pizzaiolo

Product Highlights

Max Temperature: 750 F

Pizza Size: 12″

Warranty: 2 years

Price: $999.95

While we generally don’t recommend an indoor pizza oven… If it’s a non-negotiable, Breville’s Pizzaiolo is the one to get.

Also known as “the Smart Oven”… Gaughan tested this indoor oven back before he was originally posting reviews. For an indoor option, it performs fairly well!

The Breville countertop pizza oven reaches a maximum temperature of 750°F… Which is a good deal hotter than most indoor ovens! This can bake a commendable 12” New York style pizza.

Breville also advertises the Element iQ system. This functionality is supposed to create the ideal baking environment for “New York, Pan, Thin & Crispy and Frozen pizzas”.

There’s even a cordierite pizza stone inside… Serving to further replicate that brick oven cooking surface.

You can get a brushed stainless steel finish or “black truffle” finish. And weighing only about 2.64 lbs… This oven is super easy to maneuver around the kitchen.

Breville’s Pizzaiolo is warrantied for 2 years… And is currently priced at $999.95 on Amazon.

Best Countertop Electric Pizza Oven: Ooni Volt

Product Highlights

Max Temperature: 850 F

Pizza Size: 12″

Warranty: 2 years

Price: $999.00

Next up is a brand-new release!

Ooni is paving the way for a countertop oven that can be used both indoors… And outdoors.

Gaughan hasn’t been able to get his hands on this model to test it quite yet… But the specs look promising.

This electric countertop pizza oven can reach a groundbreaking 850°F maximum temperature! This is approaching the realm of a good Neapolitan style range.

This oven has several knobs to tightly control how your pie is cooked. There’s a timer, temperature control knob… And a third knob to control the top and bottom heating elements as well.

This offers excellent versatility during your bake. If you need more heat on the top… You can easily make adjustments on the fly.

The Ooni Volt comes with a 13” cordierite pizza stone for 12-inch pizza pies… And is constructed with powder-coated carbon steel and stainless steel for durability in the outdoor environment.

This oven is, of course, fantastic for indoor use… But if you live in an area that prohibits open flame appliances, this is an excellent solution for outdoor use as well.

When unboxed, the Ooni Volt weighs almost 40 lbs… Which has some heft, but is not unmanageable to transport.

Ooni offers a 2 year warranty for this oven… And it’s currently priced for $999.00 on Ooni’s website.

Best Dual Fuel Option: Solo Stove Pi

Product Highlights

Max Temperature: 900 F

Pizza Size: 12”

Warranty: Lifetime

Price: $624.99

The rest of this roundup will include strictly outdoor ovens… Starting with the Solo Stove Pi.

What’s unique about this oven is the potential for a hybrid upgrade. Most countertop ovens are equipped for a single fuel type only.

But if you want to alternate between wood or gas… Solo Stove offers a gas upgrade kit (sold separately) to make this a formidable hybrid oven.

With its unique shape, cordierite stone, and solid stainless steel construction… The Solo Stove performs well, and was able to preheat to over 900°F in a half hour.

“I like the Solo Pi, that was good with Neapolitan, but it didn’t do quite as well with NY. The size is smaller so you are limited with what you can make”, Gaughan shares.

And despite the seemingly-large opening… It’s true. The Solo Stove can fit a 12” pie comfortably, but nothing more.

This stainless steel countertop pizza oven weighs 30 lbs, which offers great portability! It would be simple to haul this oven onto your next camping trip.

Solo Stove offers an impressive lifetime warranty on their oven… And multiple bundles are available if you want to include some premium accessories.

The countertop wood burning pizza oven is offered at a $624.99 MSRP, and if you add the gas burner… That will run you $894.99. (Sales are run frequently, so be sure to check their website!)

Most Beginner Friendly: Ooni Koda 16

Product Highlights

Max Temperature: 950 F

Pizza Size: 16”

Warranty: 5 years

Price: $599.00

If you’re just looking to dip your toes into the world of pizza making… The Ooni Koda 16 is a safe bet for beginners.

“The Koda is what I consider to be one of the most beginner friendly options. It’s the most user-friendly for someone who’s new to pizza making. There’s a wide cooking area, and the L-burner doesn’t burn up one spot of the crust quite as quickly as the Karu can”, Gaughan explains.

We’ll get to the Karu in a moment… But the Koda 16’s L-burner is a smart innovation, allowing a larger portion of the pizza to be cooked at once.

This requires less turning on your part… Which can be difficult to get the hang of as a newbie.

True to the name, this gas-powered oven can fit a 16” pie. It also has a cordierite baking board, which is easy to remove and clean.

The Ooni Koda can take a little longer to heat up… But it’s worth the wait, and reaches a scorching hot 950°F.

This countertop gas pizza oven weighs just shy of 40 lbs… And is constructed from a powder-coated carbon steel shell.

As you’ll see in Pala Pizza’s 2 year update video… The Koda’s exterior did struggle in the outdoor environment, and showed signs of wear. So be sure to keep this oven covered, and possibly even stow it away indoors during the winter months.

Ooni warranties the Koda 16 for a period of 5 years… And is listed on Amazon for $599.00.

Top-Notch NY Style: Halo Versa 16

Product Highlights

Max Temperature: 805 F

Pizza Size: 16”

Warranty: 5 years

Price: $549.99

If New York Style pizza is your absolute favorite… The Halo Versa will reliably dish out perfect pie, after perfect pie.

What’s unique about this oven is it actually has a rotating cordierite pizza stone. It can be turned on or off at any point during the bake.

This propane-fueled oven has a dual-burner system. There’s an infrared burner under the stone… As well as the primary heat source in the back.

The Halo Versa doesn’t get quite hot enough for Neapolitan style pizzas… Which coincidentally makes it a fantastic option for NY style. (In Pala Pizza’s test, the stone temperature maxed out at 805°F after 35 minutes.)

“The Halo Versa 16 worked awesome for NY style pizza, honestly one of the best”, Gaughan recalls.

The longer cooking time and rotating stone create the environment for an impeccable 16” NY pizza.

This countertop pizza oven outdoor is on the heavier side… Weighing in at just over 43 lbs.

The Halo Versa 16 is constructed with powder coated 430 grade stainless steel… Which is not optimal. (When specified, we strongly prefer 304 grade for appliances.)

Halo offers a 5 year warranty for this oven… And is available for $549.99 on Amazon.

Impeccable Neapolitan: Gozney Roccbox

Product Highlights

Max Temperature: 900 F

Pizza Size: 12”

Warranty: 5 years

Price: $499.00

Now let’s take a look on the flip side.

If you want some of the best Neapolitan pizza a countertop pizza oven can offer… The Gozney Roccbox is calling your name.

This mailbox-shaped pizza oven is equipped with an insanely-hot torch burner in the back. When on at full blast, this little oven preheats to over 900°F in as little as a half hour.

“If you’re strictly looking to cook Neapolitan, the Roccbox is absolutely the best oven you can get. You can’t do NY style, as the heat is just way too intense. The torch burner is huge, and one of the fastest to preheat to 900 degrees”, Gaughan states.

Fueled by either wood or gas… Gozney’s Roccbox can accommodate a single 12” pie.

This home countertop pizza oven features complete 304 stainless steel construction, which is fantastic to see!

It also comes equipped with a silicone “safe-touch” jacket on the exterior. This is a great safety measure, especially if little ones will be around.

The cordierite pizza stone is not removable, which can be challenging if it needs to be replaced.

And like the Halo Versa… This pizza oven is on the heavier side, sitting at 44 lbs.

Gozney covers the Roccbox with a 5 year warranty… And it’s available on Amazon for $499.00.

Pala Pizza’s Top Choice: Ooni Karu 16

Product Highlights

Max Temperature: 840 F

Pizza Size: 16”

Warranty: 5 years

Price: $799.00

Alright. Let’s get to Pala Pizza’s top choice… The Ooni Karu 16.

This oven is an absolute powerhouse… And excels at baking all three types of pizza.

“The Ooni Karu 16 right now is one of my top picks because it is able to produce NY, Neapolitan, and Detroit style pizzas at a professional level”, Gaughan explains.

The full-view glass oven door does an excellent job of trapping heat in… And the included chimney improves airflow.

You can cook with wood, charcoal, or gas… But the gas burner attachment will be sold separately.

The pizza stone only got to about 840°F in Pala Pizza’s review… But that didn’t stop it from baking an incredible Neapolitan pie.

The Karu 16 will reliably pump out 16” pizza pies… And is constructed with powder coated carbon steel and stainless steel. (This will likely have the same durability challenges as the Koda 16.)

Weighing in at just over 62 lbs, this is the heaviest oven on the list so far. It’s less portable… But worth the effort!

The Ooni Karu 16 will come paired with a 5 year warranty… And is available on Amazon for $799.00.

Our Top Pick: Coyote Duomo

Product Highlights

Max Temperature: 1000 F

Pizza Size: 12” (Up to 4 pies will fit at once)

Warranty: 1 year

Price: $2,799.00

Let’s wrap up the list with our top pick… And it’s a brand-new oven Gaughan has not had the chance to review yet!

We’ll admit, it’s a quite large departure from the other pizza ovens we’ve discussed thus far. (Literally!)

But despite the extra-large size and increased cost… We believe the Coyote Duomo deserves special mention.

In our minds, this is the ultimate wood fired oven for your backyard.

This 32” oven is a baker’s delight… Able to accommodate up to 4 12” pizza pies, a large boule of artisan bread, or even a big baking dish filled with your favorite casserole.

The Duomo is also insulated with ceramic fiber throughout (including the chimney!)… Contributing to outstanding heat retention and consistency between bakes.

This oven is currently available as wood fired only… Or multi fuel for those who’d like a gas fired option.

Plus, this high-quality pizza oven is constructed with 304 stainless steel throughout… Giving you zero worries about how well it will hold up outdoors.

The Duomo will easily soar up to high temperatures of 1,000°F… Giving you plenty of heat for a pizzeria-style Neapolitan pie.

And although the price tag of $2,799.00 may seem steep… Compared to other in-class ovens, the Coyote Duomo offers an excellent value.

What else can we say? It’s a great product… Makes perfect pizza… And gives you that top of the line pizza making experience.

Well, there is one thing we have to say… This isn’t a portable pizza oven by any stretch of the imagination. The Duomo weighs a hefty 283 lbs! But we’ve got the perfect place for you to put it…

Where Will Your New Countertop Pizza Oven Go?

Alright, we have talked about a ton of countertop pizza ovens… But what’s the best way to bake pizza with your new oven?

If you’re springing for an outdoor oven (smart choice)… Pairing it with an outdoor kitchen is a no-brainer!

Why?

You can prepare and work with your dough right next to the oven! You won’t have to constantly run in and out of the house to check on the oven… Then check on your dough… Then check on your oven again… You get the picture.

Everything is in one, single place.

Your counter space will be the perfect height for working the dough… And you can simultaneously keep an eye on your oven.

Not to mention… You won’t make a mess of your indoor kitchen!

You can also include storage options to keep wood fuel and accessories neatly stowed away… And right where you need them.

Really, it just makes sense.

You could even go all-out. Why not throw in a gas grill with a rotisserie, refrigerator, or other appliances? Make it a complete outdoor cooking station!

To get a sense of what’s possible… Try our free online design tool.

When you’ve created an outdoor kitchen design you love… We’d be honored to help you bring it to life!

Need Help With Your Plans?

Talk to one of our expert designers and they will guide you from planning to installation. Schedule a call today.

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Outdoor Kitchen Outlet: 3 Unique Options, Key Considerations, & Insider Tips from an Expert Designer

Gabrielle Desmarais — Thu, 18 May 2023 14:56:43 +0000

Do you want your outdoor kitchen to run a rotisserie, blender, crockpot, or charging station?

Well, in that case… You’re going to need an outdoor kitchen outlet. (Maybe several of them!)

The trouble is, there’s not much information out there on the topic.

How do you plan for electrical outlets in your island?

How much power do you need?

And most importantly… How do you know the outlets are installed safely?

These are all essential questions for you to ponder.

The last thing you want is for your outlet to be located inconveniently, or not have enough power to run your appliances… Or worse yet, end up becoming a straight up safety hazard due to improper installation.

Rest assured, we’ll cover all of the above (and much more) in this article. Let’s start with outdoor outlet types.

Quicklinks:

Detailed Walkthrough of 3 BBQ Island Outlet Types & Placement Options (And a Bonus Category!)
4 Key Considerations for Island Outlet Requirements & Safety
Powerful Outdoor Kitchen Outlet Design Examples to Electrify Your Island
You’ve Got the Power… What’s Next?

3 Outlet Types & Placement Options

To ensure you get the most accurate information possible… We’ve enlisted the assistance of one of our resident Design Experts, Daniel Cdebaca.

He’s designed over 3,000 islands (and counting!) in his tenure as an outdoor kitchen designer… So there’s no better person to consult with when it comes to planning island outlets! (And your overall project!)

So, what are the main outlet types/placement options you’ll have to choose from?

There’s outlets on the exterior of the island itself, up against the wall, and pop-up outlets.

Let’s discuss each one in-depth.

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Outlets Mounted on the Exterior of the Island

When you think of an outdoor kitchen outlet… This is likely what you’re imagining!

You’ll find an outlet installed on one of the exterior walls of your island… Ready to plug in your blender or other accessories.

But is that really all there is to it?

Well… Quickly, you’ll discover that just anywhere won’t work for an outdoor kitchen outlet.

“When it comes to freestanding islands, I think that positioning your standard outlets on the left or right end panels is typically the most convenient. That way, you don’t have to walk all the way to the back to access them”, Daniel shares.

This is a great point!

You always want your outlets to be accessible… But also not interfere with the other features of your island.

It’s easy to reach down the side of your island, plug something in, and have it rest on the edge of your countertop.

You could also freely place outlets on the back, but as Daniel mentioned… That will require a bit more movement. (Although, this could be a plus if you’re trying to get your steps up!)

For an exterior outlet placement… The only location we usually avoid is on the front of your island.

Why?

“Typically, the cords of your appliances come off the back of the unit. So if you position outlets on the front of the island, is that really going to be the most functional way you want to use it?”, Daniel explains.

It’s one of those things that you don’t think about at first, but when pointed out… It makes a lot of sense, doesn’t it?

If you install outlets on the front of your island… The cord itself will end up becoming an obstruction and getting in the way.

In the interest of convenience… It’s best to keep your island outlets on the sides, or even the back.

Now, how are the considerations different if your island is near a wall?

Island Outlets Mounted on the Wall

If you don’t want to have a freestanding island in your backyard… You’ll likely end up placing your island near a wall.

There are some safety considerations related to this that we won’t go into here… But there are also considerations for your outdoor kitchen outlet placement!

Daniel starts off the process with a question, “One thing to think about is, what are the outlets really going to be used for? Are you plugging in blenders, or hot pots, or crock pots, or speakers?”

Depending on what you’re using… You may prefer to have it sitting on the edge of your island, or near your cooking appliances.

If so, you can stick with the left or right cabinet wall placement (if accessible)… Or you can opt to mount an outlet on the wall near the edge of your island.

This allows you to plug in accessories with ease, and avoid the inconvenience of a front-wall placement!

But if you’d rather not install an outlet on the wall… There’s one more placement to consider.

Pop-Up Outlet Considerations

If you want more flexibility, a pop-up outlet might be more your speed.

Just as it sounds… These outlets literally “pop-up” out of the countertop of your island.

And when you’re not using it… You’ll simply push it closed, retaining a low footprint in your countertop.

If you have ample countertop space in your design, you can place these outlets anywhere that’s convenient for you.

But generally speaking… Similar to placing outlets on front panels, it’s generally best if your pop-up outlet sits near the back of the island. (Just to keep cords out of the way.)

Pop-up outlets are also perfect if you have a rotisserie kit on your built-in grill.

This outlet can sit right next to either side of your grill… Perfectly placed to power the motor on your rotisserie.

Now, there’s only one other thing to consider in terms of a pop-up outlet. These outlets act like an extension cord. They aren’t directly hardwired, and must be plugged into another outlet inside your island.

And speaking of interior outlets…

Bonus: What About Interior Outlet Placement?

If you’re running outdoor refrigerators, wine coolers, kegerators, outdoor grill lights, ice makers, or other electric appliances inside your island… You also have to contend with outlets placed inside your island!

Once again, you have to plan ahead for how these outlets are going to be located.

“When placing electrical stub-outs or electrical outlets in your island, you want to be mindful of the appliances you’ll actually be putting into your island”, Daniel explains.

“Take an outdoor refrigerator, for instance. You know where the refrigerator is going to go, and you put the outlet on the wall where the refrigerator slides in, but the plug itself is preventing the fridge from fully sliding in”, he continues.

That would be a frustrating problem, would it not?

You’re in the final stages of installation… But you can’t complete the job, because your refrigerator won’t slide in all the way.

That’s why location matters! (And it’s such an easy problem to avoid.)

Daniel shares, “It’s good to think about appliance depth and how that’s going to affect outlet placement. Typically, the most open space is the most convenient place to put them. If you have multiple appliances, it’s best to locate the outlets between them.”

And by allowing for as much space as possible… You also avoid the problem of your cords pinching from being forced to bend in tight quarters.

Further… You’ll have to consider if you want your outlets mounted directly on a stub-out, or on an interior island cabinet wall.

“When it comes to mounting fixtures, it can be done from the stub-out much of the time. The fixture can be mounted directly from the stub-out, or on the back panel of the kitchen. To get power to your island, it’s best to have one central stub-out. Once the island is built, your electrician will route electricity through the island and place the outlets where appropriate”, Daniel explains.

Ultimately… There’s no distinct advantage to one option or the other. This simply comes down to personal preference!

Now that you have a deeper understanding of outlet types and their placement… What are the requirements for your island?

How to Meet Outlet Requirements for Safety

While location of your outlets is half the battle… There’s still more yet you have to understand before making decisions!

There are several requirements that must be met to ensure your outlets are safe to use.

First and foremost…

Are Your Outlets Outdoor-Rated?

It’s no secret that water and electricity don’t mix.

So in order to protect yourself and your loved ones from a dangerous electric shock… It’s essential that your outdoor kitchen outlets are outdoor-rated.

“As long as it’s an outdoor-rated outlet you should be fine. It’s actually not the outlet itself that is exterior-rated, but the outlet cover”, Daniel shares.

It may seem a bit strange at first… But yes, the outlet cover is just as important as the outlet itself. This is what will ultimately be protecting your outlet from moisture, after all!

Thankfully, these outlet covers are easy to find. “Outdoor-rated” and “weatherproof” are good keywords to look for when shopping.

But beyond this… You do have a safety consideration for the outlet itself. You should only be using GFCI outlets outdoors.

You’ll often find these outlets in kitchens and bathrooms, where outlets can accidentally come in contact with water.

GFCI outlets are designed to detect leaks, and automatically shut off the power when one is detected. (Thus preventing electrocution.)

Your outlet cover should be able to handle keeping moisture out no-problem… But a GFCI outlet is a fail-safe feature that should be utilized regardless.

So far, so good. But…

Do You Have Enough Power?

Next, you’ll need to consider the actual power requirements for your island.

For most projects, “it’s recommended to have your outdoor kitchen set up on a GFCI dedicated branch circuit, with a 15-20 amp breaker for your outdoor kitchen”, Daniel explains.

So that answers that question. But why do you need a dedicated branch circuit?

“Having a dedicated branch circuit ensures that you don’t have other features pulling power off of it, like a patio heater or light fixtures”, he continues.

This is key! You don’t want your circuit breaker regularly tripping because it can’t handle the amount of power you’re siphoning off.

This also ensures that your outdoor kitchen has plenty of power running consistently… And you’re not stressing the system.

Now, there’s just one caveat to this recommendation. If you’re planning to run high-powered blenders and appliances off your outdoor kitchen often… You may want to increase the amperage on your breaker.

How much?

Well, “it’s always important to discuss with your certified electrician what you plan on using in your outdoor kitchen so they can supply the correct amount of amps for everyday use”, Daniel shares.

And on the topic of professional electricians…

Always Hire a Professional

Some of the concepts we’ve just outlined may seem simple… And you might be tempted to install the outlets yourself to save some money.

Wait!

It’s imperative that you work with a certified electrician for this task.

When it comes to an outdoor kitchen project… There are certain things that homeowners must leave to the professionals, with installing electric lines being one of them. (And natural gas or propane fuel lines being the other.)

An electrician will understand your needs, and be able to appropriately (and safely) hook up your island to electricity.

Not to mention, depending on where you live… It may be required by law for you to hire an electrician for this task, anyway.

Keeping safety in mind… Let’s discuss a couple final considerations to ensure your outdoor kitchen designer plans for.

Additional Location Considerations for Safety

To be sure your island is as safe as possible… There are a couple more things your designer must account for.

More specifically, proximity of your outlets to heat or water.

If your outlets are dangerously close to a grill… The residual heat coming off of it could cause the fixture to melt, or even an electrical fire!

This could be an extremely dangerous mistake… So ensure your outlet is free and clear of excessive heat.

Same goes for water, although this is less of a concern.

As long as you have an outdoor-rated outlet cover… Any water coming off a sink should not cause an issue. And with a GFCI outlet, the power will shut off long before this becomes an issue.

At the same time… You don’t want your outlets sitting too close to the ground, either.

If you live in an area prone to flooding, standing water will cause a serious issue for your outlets.

So to be safe, keep your outlets a good distance off the ground as well.

Alright. That’s officially everything you need to know about outdoor kitchen outlets!

At this stage, you may want to see some real-life examples of how to plan yours.

Let’s take a look.

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Outdoor Kitchen Electrical Outlet Design Examples

To bring the discussion full circle… Let’s view some design examples to assist your research.

Outdoor Kitchen with Exterior Mounted Outlet

Let’s start with something simple for your outdoor living space.

This straight island has a single exterior mounted outlet… On the right side of the cabinet wall.

You’ll notice that it’s fairly close to the top of the countertop. There’s a rotisserie motor coming off the right side of the gas grill… Providing the perfect place to plug it in!

And if you’re not firing up the rotisserie… There’s still a bit of counter space to plug in a phone charger, or something small.

Grill Island with Multiple Exterior Outlets

Now… What if you want to have as much power as possible?

This L-shaped island has got it all!

In total, you’ll count four exterior mounted outlets on this BBQ station.

There’s two outlets on the corner island, on either side of the sink… And two more on the end of the bar island.

The outlets near the sink will be great for running cooking appliances, like a hot pot.

The outlets on the bar island will be perfect for your bartending needs… Easily powering blenders, juicers, and the like.

And if you’d like your outlets to be a little more low-profile… Several brands offer exterior-rated stainless steel covers to match your appliances!

No matter what it is… You’ll have no shortage of options when it comes to power!

Outdoor Kitchen Pop Up Outlet Example

Let’s turn our attention to a BBQ island with a pop up outlet. (If you look too quickly, you’ll miss it!)

Find it yet?

The outdoor kitchen outlet here is in the bottom left corner of the front island countertop.

It blends right in, doesn’t it?

The cover on this outlet perfectly matches the appliances… And provides a seamless look in this outdoor kitchen.

If you want your outlets to be discreet, a pop up outlet is the way to go.

And as you’ll see, locating these outlets is super flexible. Anywhere you have counter space… You can install a pop up outlet.

Stone Outdoor Kitchen with Wall Mounted Outlets

To wrap up this section… Let’s look to an example with wall mounted outlets.

This stone island has two wall mounted outlets. You’ll find one peeking behind the BBQ grill, and another above the outdoor fridge.

The outlet near the grill is perfect for powering a rotisserie… And there’s plenty of counter space to also power other cooking appliances.

As for the outlet above the fridge… The sky’s the limit for what you can power! Blenders, charging stations, the whole nine.

In this design, the addition of a wall mounted outlet allowed the countertop to be fully utilized… Whereas with a pop up outlet, it’s minimal, but you will lose a bit of space when in use.

Alright. Starting to feel more confident about outdoor kitchen outlets?

Let’s get to the next steps.

You’ve Got the Power... Now What About Your Island?

Now that you’ve learned the ins and outs of outdoor kitchen outlets… It’s time to decide what outdoor kitchen solution you want, if you haven’t thought about it already!

In your research, you’ll likely have found a ton of options… But there are none so simple as RTA Outdoor Living.

Especially when it comes to planning outlets!

Why?

You’ll work one-on-one with an outdoor kitchen design expert, like Daniel.

All of our experts have designed hundreds, if not thousands of islands!

Which means… You’re getting the best advice possible when it comes to planning your island (and your outlets!).

They’ll be able to provide advice tailored to your exact needs… Plus, we’ll ensure all proper safety measures are taken during the design stage.

So when your island is ready to be installed… Your electrician will have just a few easy tasks to get your island on the grid.

The rest of your outdoor kitchen assembly goes just as smoothly. Our outdoor kitchen kits arrive at your door as panels, countertops, and outdoor kitchen appliances. (We offer outdoor pizza ovens, too!)

You bolt together the panels, place the countertop, and slide in the appliances… And all said and done, this takes only a few hours.

It’s an elegant, high-quality system… That couldn’t be more convenient.

Point is, building an outdoor kitchen has never been easier.

Curious about getting started?

Submitting a design with our free online design tool will get you in touch with our expert designers… Or, you could reach out to us directly if you have something in mind already.

Either way, we look forward to helping you transform your outdoor space!

Need Help With Your Plans?

Talk to one of our expert designers and they will guide you from planning to installation. Schedule a call today.

BOOK A CALL

FAQ

How do I Run Electricity to my Outdoor Kitchen?

Running electricity to your outdoor kitchen is not something we recommend you DIY. It’s best to explain your needs to a professional electrician, who will understand how to safely set up the system for you.

Umbrella for Outdoor Kitchen: Buyer’s Guide & How to Choose the Best Shade for Your Island

Gabrielle Desmarais — Sun, 23 Apr 2023 16:40:52 +0000

An outdoor kitchen is all about enjoying your outdoor space to the absolute fullest!

That means warm, summery, fresh air… And lots of sunshine.

However, there is such a thing as too much sun!

If you plan on spending the entire day grilling in your backyard… Chances are, you’re going to want some shade to retreat under.

Hence, your interest in an umbrella for outdoor kitchen.

It might seem like a simple purchase… But there’s actually quite a bit to consider before you buy one!

In this article, we’ll share with you a detailed buyer’s guide… And reveal the best umbrella options you should consider for your outdoor kitchen!

Let’s begin.

Quick Links:

Outdoor Kitchen Umbrella Buyer’s Guide: Here’s What You Need to Know
These 5 Umbrellas Could be the Best Fit for Your Outdoor Space

Umbrella for Outdoor Kitchen Buyer’s Guide

It’s just an umbrella… How complicated could it really be to shop for one?

Interestingly, there’s more than meets the eye when it comes to patio umbrellas.

But first… You’ll have to decide on your style.

What’s Your Style?

It’s an umbrella for outdoor kitchen… How many options can there really be?

Well, there are actually three distinct styles for you to choose from! Market umbrellas, cantilever umbrellas, and lighted umbrellas.

We’ll start with market umbrellas. And there’s nothing complicated here… It’s just a straight umbrella, with the pole placed right in the center.

So… It’s a regular umbrella?

Well, yes! But that’s important to note, as the following options aren’t exactly traditional.

Cantilever umbrellas don’t have a pole right in the center. Rather, they are actually suspended in the air. These umbrellas will be supported from the top, typically with the supporting pole resting at the side.

Why is this beneficial?

There’s a couple of reasons. If you don’t want a pole getting in the way of your outdoor kitchen… This is a great solution!

Many cantilever umbrellas also allow you to change the angle… Which gives you more control over the area you want to shade. (Some market umbrellas can tilt, as well.)

Finally, there are lighted umbrellas. Again, it’s a straightforward concept! These umbrellas are lit under the shade… Providing some light for your guests as the evening rolls in.

Lighted umbrellas can be found in either the market or cantilever style. So you have plenty of options!

Next, you’ll have to think about where you want your umbrella located.

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Freestanding or Not?

Once again, you’ll be presented with a choice. Do you want a freestanding umbrella… Or do you want it sitting directly in your island?

Ultimately, this only comes into play if you’ve settled on a market umbrella.

Cantilevers will always be freestanding… Relying on an umbrella base for support.

But if you want a true outdoor kitchen umbrella… You’ll want to be able to install it directly into your island.

So for a market umbrella, this simply means you’ll forego the base. (Provided you have an umbrella hole in your island!)

Your preference here is primarily down to aesthetics. Do you like the way an umbrella looks sitting directly inside your BBQ island? Or would you prefer it to sit off to the side?

Play around with the idea! Luckily, umbrellas are quite customizable in this way. Most will have a removable base… So you can swap positions if you don’t like your original idea.

What’s not as adjustable is the size of your umbrella!

How to Pick the Right Umbrella Size

You don’t want a dinky umbrella that doesn’t actually shade your island… And you don’t want an umbrella that’s comically large for your space.

In this scenario, size matters!

Thankfully, the size guide is fairly easy to parse out. You just need to know the length of your outdoor kitchen.

Typically, the smallest island length you’ll see starts at 5’. Therefore, you’ll want an umbrella that’s 9’ – 9′.5’ wide to fully cover this area.

If you have a 6’ or 7’ island… You’ll want to bump up the umbrella size to be 10’ or 11’ wide.

Got an even larger outdoor kitchen? Or do you have a layout with multiple islands?

Generally speaking, you’ll want to go with an umbrella at least 12’ wide. (This should comfortably accommodate an 8’ island.)

Just keep in mind that for these extra large sizes… You’re generally limited to selecting a cantilever umbrella.

If you go big enough… You might also be able to shade some patio furniture!

Either way, make sure the size you select is adequate for your outdoor living space.

And to take the decisions a step further… How important is adjustability?

Is Adjustability Important?

Most of us are used to umbrellas that are static. They open… And can’t be adjusted.

This is fine if you have your outdoor patio umbrella perfectly placed.

But what if you want to make adjustments?

As the sun shifts across the sky… You may want to tilt your umbrella to ensure your island remains perfectly shaded.

Really, it comes down to this. Is adjustability important to you?

If so, there’s no reason not to invest in an umbrella for outdoor kitchen that can be adjusted!

Once again, you have a couple options here.

You’ll want to look for height adjustability… As well as the ability for your umbrella to tilt. Both features will give you more flexibility in how your space is shaded.

Now, tilting functionality is a bit different between market and cantilever umbrellas.

Most market umbrellas will have a section of the pole that can be directly tilted to your desired angle.

For cantilever umbrellas… The pole itself will generally be rotated to achieve the angle you want.

There’s nothing inherently good or bad about either option… It’s just something to keep in mind!

Now, safety is something you’ll want to consider carefully!

Safety Tips for Your Outdoor Umbrella

When it comes to an outdoor kitchen umbrella… There are two safety tips to keep in mind.

For one, all umbrellas can fly away if not secured properly.

And since you’re going to be installing a large (and heavy!) umbrella… This scenario can be quite dangerous if it gets loose and hits someone.

Therefore, you want to make sure that your umbrella is well-secured. The base should weigh enough to hold down your umbrella… Even with strong gusts. (It’s worth packing up if you’re experiencing high winds.)

The next safety risk?

Considering your umbrella will often be right above a BBQ grill… You’re now dealing with a fire hazard.

Of course, outdoor cooking and flammable materials don’t mix!

And it’s not just the heat itself you have to worry about, either. A grease fire could quickly make your umbrella go up in flames.

So to be safe… When cooking at your gas grill, move your umbrella to the side. This will provide some shade, while keeping it away from the line of fire! (Keep it away from your fire pit, outdoor fireplace, or patio heater, too!)

Sound good?

There’s one last category you’ll have to consider.

Umbrella Material Quality

When it comes to your patio umbrella… You’ll have two different materials to decide on.

What fabric do you want? And what should the pole be made of?

There are a great many unique fabric options out there… And to be honest, most of them perform at the same level.

At the same time… Sunbrella fabric is often regarded as the best-overall option.

This is an acrylic fabric that is dyed with a UV-stabilized pigment. This means the color will not fade over time… And Sunbrella guarantees their fabrics for 3 years against fading.

It’s also worth mentioning that these fabrics have been tested to provide up to 98% UV protection.

Aside from Sunbrella… You’ll encounter names such as Suncrylic, SunDura, Olefin, and Coolaroo.

Suncrylic, SunDura, and Olefin are all acrylic-based fabrics. They all advertise colorfastness, as well as UV protection and easy cleaning.

Coolaroo is a type of knitted polyethylene fabric. You’ll get less UV blockage… But this fabric is “breathable”, allowing for cooler temperatures underneath the umbrella.

So if you want the best of the best… Sunbrella is considered the fabric of choice. But ultimately, you can’t really go wrong with any of these options.

Where things can go wrong is with the pole material.

Wood, aluminum, and steel are your top three options.

Wood looks beautiful… But it is prone to rot, warping, swelling, and it’s a flammable material.

Therefore, it’s not the best choice if you plan to leave your umbrella outside 24/7.

For this reason, aluminum and steel are superior options… But only if they are high quality!

These materials are prone to rust and corrosion. To avoid this as much as possible… Stick to marine grade aluminum or 304 stainless steel.

Feeling a little more confident? Let’s browse some umbrellas for your outdoor kitchen!

The perfect hangout spot

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Best Umbrellas for Outdoor Kitchen

When it comes to your backyard space, you’ll spare no expense… Within reason, of course!

After reviewing these patio umbrellas… You’re sure to find an excellent option for your space!

Auto Tilt Market Umbrella from Darlee

Product Highlights

Features: Auto tilt, crank rise

Frame Material: Powder coated aluminum

Fabric: Polyester

Warranty: 5 years on frame, 3 years on powder coating

Price: $226.09

While Darlee may be primarily known for their outdoor bar sets and other outdoor furniture… They also produce patio umbrellas!

This offering in particular is a market umbrella, with an auto tilt feature. So if you need to get the angle of your umbrella just right… That won’t be a problem here!

The canopy opens through a crank system… Which couldn’t be more convenient to use!

And at 9’ wide, this umbrella will comfortably shade a 5’ outdoor kitchen.

For materials, this umbrella sports a polyester canopy… And an antique bronze coated, heavy duty aluminum pole.

This should stand up fairly well outdoors, as long as the powder coating does not chip. As far as color fastness or UV protection of the polyester fabric goes… We were unable to find any details on this.

Darlee warranties the frame of this umbrella for 5 years, and the powder coating for 3 years.

Currently, you’ll shell out $226.09 for it on Amazon. (The base is not included.)

Lighted Octagonal Umbrella from Galtech

Product Highlights

Features: LED lighting, auto tilt, crank rise

Frame Material: Weather-resistant aluminum

Fabric: Sunbrella

Warranty: 2 years

Price: $639.00

Want to keep the party going… Well into the evening?

Well, you’re going to need some lighting! And why not incorporate it right into your outdoor kitchen umbrella?

That’s exactly what this market umbrella from Galtech does. The ribs underneath the canopy are lined with amber LED lights… Providing a well-lit, but intimate ambiance for your guests.

Galtech claims these lights are rated for 15,000 hours of use… So these won’t burn out for an exceedingly long time!

Now, what about the rest of this umbrella?

This umbrella from Galtech opens with a crank mechanism… And features a push-button auto tilt system to adjust the angle.

The canopy is made from top-notch Sunbrella fabric… And the remaining construction is weather-resistant aluminum.

And although we don’t know the specific grade of aluminum… It should hold up decently well outdoors.

For size, this umbrella is 11’ wide… Making it an excellent choice for a 6’ or 7’ BBQ island section.

Galtech warranties this umbrella for a period of two years. Prices are currently listed at $639.00 on BBQGuys. (The base is not included.)

Massive Cantilever Umbrella from Grand Patio

Product Highlights

Features: Hand crank rise, large canopy

Frame Material: Aluminum (grade unspecified)

Fabric: Sunbrella

Warranty: 1 year

Price: $599.99

If you’ve got a large outdoor kitchen, and you’re in the market for a cantilever umbrella… You’ve got everything you need right here!

Grand Patio’s cantilever umbrella boasts a 12’ width… Making it a great option for 8’ grill islands.

Not to mention, it would simply look impressive in your backyard!

Like the others, this umbrella is opened with a hand crank mechanism.

Moving to materials… This umbrella is made with Sunbrella fabric, and sports an aluminum frame. (We’re unable to confirm the quality of the aluminum.)

Grand Patio’s cantilever umbrella is warrantied for a period of 1 year… And it does include a weighted base.

Currently, this umbrella is listed at $599.99 on Amazon.

Scalloped Market Umbrella from Tempera

Product Highlights

Features: Hand crank rise, auto tilt

Frame Material: Aluminum (grade unspecified)

Fabric: Polyester

Warranty: 1 year

Price: $139.00

Want to add more of a beachy vibe for your backyard?

This scalloped patio umbrella is calling your name!

At 9’ wide, a 5’ outdoor kitchen section can rest comfortably shaded underneath.

As with all of the previous listings… This umbrella features a hand-crank rise. It also includes an auto tilt feature.

The fabric is made from polyester… Which Tempera claims is certified not to fade in 2 years, and provides UPF50+ UV protection.

The remainder of the construction is made from aluminum. Again, the grade is not specified.

This umbrella will come backed with a 1 year warranty… And is currently $139.00 on Amazon. (The base is not included.)

Turquoise Tilting Cantilever Umbrella from Lausaint

Product Highlights

Features: Hand crank rise, tilting feature

Frame Material: Powder coated aluminum pole, powder coated steel ribs

Fabric: Polyester

Warranty: Unspecified

Price: $389.99

To add an enticing pop of color in your backyard… This turquoise cantilever umbrella will do just the trick!

The curvature of the pole also creates a striking aesthetic in your outdoor living space.

Unlike the other cantilever umbrella featured… This one can tilt! You can achieve a 0° – 45° angle with this model.

And like all of the other umbrellas… You’ll get a hand crank rise here.

The fabric is made from polyester, without further detail given. The pole is constructed from powder coated aluminum, and the ribs from powder coated steel.

The included base is made from HDPE.

Overall… This umbrella should fare quite well outdoors, as long as the powder coating doesn’t chip.

This 11’ canopy will serve you well if you have a 6’ or 7’ long BBQ island section.

Warranty information is not specified for this product… So you’ll have to check in with Lausaint for details!

You’ll find this umbrella listed for $389.99 on Amazon.

Got Your Outdoor Kitchen with Umbrella Yet?

At this stage, we’ve talked a whole lot about umbrellas… But what about the outdoor kitchen?

If you don’t have yours yet… You have a mountain of planning ahead!

And one of the first things you’ll have to decide is… What outdoor kitchen brand do you want to work with?

There are a myriad of options out there.

But if you want the simplest, most convenient, most tailored-to-you solution… There’s no better solution than RTA Outdoor Living.

You will be guided through the process by our team of experts, every step of the way.

Not only will you have personalized support… You’ll have a personalized island, as well.

Our free online design tool will get you started… And your Design Expert will help you tweak it to perfection!

You can deck out your island with a gas stainless steel grill, charcoal grill, flat top griddle, pizza oven, side burner… You name it!

That also means room for your umbrella! If you need an umbrella hole in the countertop, that’s no problem at all.

However you dream up your design… It’s our mission to make that dream even more impressive in reality.

So, curious about getting started?

The best place to begin is to create your DIY kitchen design!

From there, we’ll work closely with you to determine if RTA is a good fit for your project… And if so, we’ll bring your vision to life!

Sound good?

We’ll be in touch.

Need Help With Your Plans?

Talk to one of our expert designers and they will guide you from planning to installation. Schedule a call today.

BOOK A CALL

FAQ

What is the Best Type of Umbrella for an Outdoor Kitchen?

In truth, there isn’t a single best type of umbrella for an outdoor kitchen! It comes down to personal preference and what works best for your needs. A market umbrella is a classic option, especially if you want it to be installed directly into your island. A cantilever umbrella is a better option if you prefer to have your shade off to the side… Without a pole disrupting your movement around the island.

Can You Put an Umbrella Over a Grill?

While you can put an umbrella over a gas or propane grill… It’s not recommended to keep it there while you are grilling. If you are actively grilling, it’s best to remove the umbrella until you are done. (This also applies to other outdoor living features, such as a gas fireplace or patio heater.) Canopies are made from a flammable material that could catch fire when exposed to excessive heat or a grease fire. Your umbrella will also absorb grease coming off your grill, which is difficult to clean out of the fabric.

Outdoor Kitchen Vent: Why They’re Essential & Shocking Safety Risks You Can’t Ignore

Gabrielle Desmarais — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 17:34:25 +0000

You’re in the process of planning your outdoor kitchen… And the topic of ventilation has been brought to your attention.

The importance of outdoor kitchen ventilation is often overlooked… But it’s essential to the safety of your island.

Then the question becomes…

How do you know what your outdoor kitchen vent requirements are? Will you need a vent hood, too?

Things aren’t as simple as they may appear.

In this blog, we seek to demystify the confusion surrounding outdoor kitchen vents and emphasize their importance. You’ll discover key concepts, safety considerations and concerns… And we’ll wrap up with covering the safest outdoor kitchen solution for your backyard.

We’ll start with the basics.

Quick Links:

Understanding Outdoor Kitchen Vents
Safety Considerations For Outdoor Kitchen Ventilation
Most Island Vents Aren’t Safe Enough
The Best (And Safest) Outdoor Kitchen Vents

Understanding Outdoor Kitchen Vents

While there are only two primary modes of ventilation for an island… There’s a lot to know about each!

Let’s begin with island ventilation.

Outdoor Kitchen Island Vents

VENTED

NO VENTS

Island vents refer to the direct source of ventilation on your outdoor kitchen. These will often take the form of stainless steel vents placed on either side of your island. (This is what most appliance manufacturers recommend!)

Simple enough, right?

Well… There’s a little more to outdoor kitchen vents than haphazardly slapping them on each side of your island.

Location matters!

More specifically… Location matters depending on the fuel type of your grill.

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It might seem like an auto-include... But most outdoor kitchens aren't properly ventilated. Design an outdoor kitchen that's already thought through the safety for you.

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Propane Vent Location

Propane is more dense than air, so it tends to sink.

Therefore, it’s essential to place ventilation at the bottom of your island if you want a propane grill.

If ventilation is only at the top of your island… Propane gas will pool and build up. Let this go too long, and the chances of your island exploding become a serious risk.

Literally.

Same goes for natural gas.

Natural Gas Vent Location

As you would likely guess… Unlike propane, natural gas is lighter than air.

So of course, it’s important for the ventilation to sit at the top of your island.

If you make the mistake of putting vents at the bottom of your island for a natural gas grill… The gas will be unable to escape from the top of your island.

And yet again… You’re rolling the dice on an outdoor kitchen explosion.

It’s also important to note that some grill island manufacturers will put vents 6 inches below the actual top of your island. This can be problematic, as gas will rise to the very top! So that means about 6 inches of gas vapor is accumulating before any is actually able to be ventilated out.

Thankfully, it’s easy to prevent. Pay attention to the fuel type of your built-in grill… And make sure your island manufacturer is placing the vents correctly!

Heat Buildup

It’s also worth making a brief mention of heat buildup.

While gas buildup is the primary concern… Heat buildup is another issue you’ll have to contend with.

Why?

Well, excessive heat can also cause a fire in your outdoor kitchen.

Even if gas is properly being ventilated, heat is not escaping… Which means you’re still at risk for a fiery catastrophe.

So if you have a liquid propane grill with vents at the bottom of your island… You’ll still want ventilation at the top to allow for heat escape.

The same goes for other types of grills, like charcoal or pellet. You won’t have a risk of fuel leakage… But they will still produce copious amounts of heat that needs to be ventilated out.

But what about hood ventilation?

Outdoor Kitchen Hood Ventilation

There’s also hood vents to contend with. These are large, overhead ventilation systems designed to pull hot air away from your island. They will sit directly above the grill.

Vent hoods also have baffle filters, which capture the grease coming off of your food. (This reduces the risk of a grease fire.)

Unlike island vents, hood vents are not required for every outdoor kitchen.

If your grill island is in a completely open area… There’s no need for a vent hood.

But if it’s underneath any sort of roof… An outdoor vent hood becomes a requirement.

When shopping for a vent hood, you’ll want to choose an option with a 1,000 CFM blower at minimum. This will ensure your hood is powerful enough to actually divert hot air away from your island. (Safety first!)

Speaking of safety…

Safety Considerations for Outdoor Kitchen Ventilation

As you well know… Outdoor kitchen ventilation isn’t for looks. It’s for the safety of your family.

And with safety being top of mind… Let’s review the top three considerations you need to know.

Ventilation for Islands Against a Wall

While this is a fairly well-known safety tip… It’s important to reiterate.

It’s not recommended to place your island directly against a wall.

Why?

There’s excessive heat coming off your grill that must be ventilated out of the area.

And if your wall is made from a combustible material… Once again, you’ll find yourself playing with fire.

So while the island ventilation itself doesn’t play into this… There are some things you can do to create a workaround.

First, give your island some breathing room. Don’t place it directly against the wall, and allow for some airflow around the back of your island.

It would also be wise to add a backsplash made from a non-combustible material. This will safeguard the exterior wall of your home.

Most importantly… You should have hood ventilation in this scenario. It will efficiently pull hot air away from your island and the wall.

Got it?

Now, let’s divert our attention to islands under cover.

Ventilation for Islands Under Cover

Planning on installing your island under a gazebo or a pavilion?

Hood ventilation becomes essential here.

Now, instead of just having to worry about gas and heat buildup in your island… You also have to be concerned about it getting trapped overhead.

This is especially true if you have a natural gas built-in grill.

Plus, there’s always the potential for a grease fire… Which becomes far more dangerous with a flammable structure above your BBQ island.

Outdoor range hoods will funnel hot air away from your grill… As well as capture grease coming off of your food.

This makes your island far safer to use underneath a gazebo or pavilion.

Of course, you can’t forget about island ventilation either! Ensure that there’s plenty of airflow around the perimeter of your outdoor kitchen.

Sound good?

Well, there’s one more thing to keep in mind with this.

If you install an outdoor kitchen under a roof… Your appliance warranty may be voided, regardless of a ventilation hood or not.

So before you go all-in on this idea… Check with your appliance manufacturer before proceeding!

Aside from grill hood ventilation… There’s also the island material to think about.

Island Materials & Ventilation Concerns

While it may not seem obvious at first… Your outdoor kitchen materials have a lot to do with ventilation!

Especially if said ventilation is not properly installed or planned for.

If your outdoor kitchen is made from wood… That’s a disaster waiting to happen!

Even if you have insulated jackets on appliances to protect your island from excessive heat… You’re still at severe risk, particularly in the case of a grease fire.

It only takes one seemingly small accident for your entire island to go up in flames.

Point is… Use non-combustible materials for your outdoor kitchen!

By far, concrete is the best choice… But we’ll get into that a bit later.

And yes, non-combustible materials are more expensive than wood. But in our minds, safety should always trump price.

Believe it or not… Even with these safety considerations in mind, most grill island vents still aren’t safe enough.

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Most Island Vents Aren’t Safe Enough

You’re probably a bit confused at this point. How is it possible that you can follow all the safety measures we’ve already outlined… And it’s still not enough?

Well, the burden really falls on where and who your outdoor kitchen comes from.

Allow us to explain.

Prefab Outdoor Kitchen Ventilation Concerns

If you’re on the hunt for a prefabricated BBQ grill island… Listen up!

While there are many suitable options out there… Unfortunately, the presence of proper ventilation is nearly non-existent.

Why is this?

You’ll recall we made a brief mention of what appliance manufacturers recommend for island ventilation.

On the whole… Most brands recommend 20 square inches of ventilation on opposite sides of your island. This usually manifests as 20 sq inches on both the left and right sides of your island. However, front to back ventilation is not unheard of either.

Still with us?

Well, there are a couple scenarios at play here. Depending on the prefab island manufacturer you choose… Some brands will provide ventilation, but some may not at all!

So of course, you’ll want to filter out the brands that don’t even include ventilation.

But what about the ones that do?

Well, it’s simply not enough. Oftentimes, the vents used are indeed 20 square inches in size.

So what’s the problem?

Due to the nature of stainless steel vents… About half of that space may be covered by the vent panel itself.

So all in all, you could only end up with about 10 square inches of actual airflow on each side of your island.

It just doesn’t add up!

This isn’t a hypothetical scenario, either. A prominent BBQ island manufacturer recently issued a safety recall on 18,000 units due to the lack of ventilation in their islands manufactured from 2009 – 2020.

The moral of the story? Even if a prefab island manufacturer includes island ventilation… More often than not, it still doesn’t meet the minimum requirements for safety.

Sad to say… Many scratch-built options aren’t much better.

Scratch-Built Ventilation Concerns

Play Video about ventilation in outdoor kitchen

If you’re not considering a prefab outdoor kitchen… Typically, that means you’re pursuing a scratch-built option.

There are many benefits to a fully customized outdoor kitchen! You have a lot more control over the design… And a contractor or builder will be handling most of the project for you.

However, ventilation can become quite the Achilles’ heel here.

Believe it or not… A staggering amount of contractors are not even aware that outdoor kitchen vents are required!

Which means if you’re not aware and asking questions… You do so at significant risk to yourself and your loved ones.

At minimum, make sure your contractor is installing ventilation! But if they weren’t even aware of the need in the first place… They’re likely not someone you want to hire for your outdoor kitchen project anyway. (This reveals a significant lack of experience!)

Now, what if your contractor does understand the need for ventilation?

You still can’t let off the gas! You’ll want to stay on top of them and ensure they will be installing an adequate amount of ventilation.

Which, in the case of standard stainless steel vents… You’ll want them to at least double the amount being installed.

It’s also not a guarantee that your contractor will be using safe, non-combustible materials.

But in all honesty… Is this something you want to have to constantly hound your contractor about?

If you’d rather not leave safety up to chance… There’s a simpler solution out there.

The Safest Outdoor Kitchen & Vent Solution

There’s already so much you have to be concerned with when it comes to an outdoor kitchen project.

Surely, the safety of your island isn’t something you’ll want to be worried about, too.

It’s an area where compromise simply is not possible.

For you, that’s where RTA Outdoor Living comes in.

Our BBQ island solution was designed with safety in mind… From the ground up.

In fact, it’s quite literally built into the structure.

RTA’s flagship line of outdoor kitchens are made from high-performance engineered concrete composite panels. Not only is the concrete we use rated for 100 years… It’s a non-combustible material!

That means you’ll have no worries of your island going up in flames.

And when it comes to ventilation… We actually go beyond the minimum recommendations!

A Solution that Goes Above and Beyond

You’ll recall that most islands have ventilation only on the left and right sides. (And only on the top, or only on the bottom.)

With RTA, there’s ventilation coming from at least seven different locations! You have ventilation on the left and right sides… Top and bottom… And coming from the front and back.

With RTA, there’s ventilation on the left and right of the island… As well as ventilation on the back!

To take it a step further… There’s ventilation on both the top and bottom of the island on all three sides.

So no matter what fuel type you choose… You’re covered. You can even switch between natural gas and propane, if desired!

RTA’s island ventilation is discreet, as well. There are simply small cutouts at the very top and very bottom of your island. These are not covered by vent panels, and will not take away from the aesthetic of your island.

Between the top and bottom vents… There’s 20 square inches of ventilation on both the left and right sides of the island. Additionally, you have another 44 square inches coming from the top and bottom of the back.

There’s also a small, ¼” – ½” gap under the front of the grill, to contribute additional airflow.

But of course… Your fuel type will only be able to vent out of either the top or bottom only. Even still, you end up with a total of 42 square inches of ventilation across the top or bottom. Therefore… Even with only half of the vents being utilized, we well-exceed minimum ventilation recommendations.

However, if you’re using liquid propane… The top vents are not useless to you! Remember that heat rises. So even though the propane gas is sinking… Heat will be funneling out the top of your island anyway.

It’s important to harp on this for a moment. You might recall that we mentioned most ventilation is placed 6” away from the top of the island.

Not so for us. Our ventilation is located at the absolute top of the island… Therefore, there is no heat buildup whatsoever with our system.

Additionally, the interior of our islands are wide-open. This is an uncommon summer kitchen feature! Many islands are limited with interior space (like concrete block)… Which means it’s difficult to achieve good cross-ventilation. Due to the cavernous nature of our islands, air restriction is far less of a concern.

And due to our drill-only construction… The concrete panels of our islands are not sealed or caulked together, either. This means that there’s additional airflow leaking through these often imperceptible cracks.

We’re so confident about the safety of our outdoor kitchen islands… We guarantee it to you!

We Put Your Safety First

To be absolutely certain your island is beyond safe to use… Every RTA outdoor kitchen is guaranteed to exceed proper material and ventilation standards.

This means that our islands are manufactured to be safe to use, from the jump.

To provide a bit more context…

All RTA islands come with outdoor grills and appliances from Coyote Outdoor Living. And as we mentioned a moment ago… Our ventilation exceeds the requirement for Coyote appliances.

That’s because we take your safety seriously.

But that’s not the only reason why our islands are designed for optimal safety.

That’s right, it comes down to our materials! We won’t repeat ourselves too much here… But our concrete island panels and countertops are completely non-combustible.

Talk about peace of mind!

However, there is something else to consider.

Even though our islands are manufactured to be safe… It’s still your responsibility to make sure the setup and location of your island is safe!

1. You have ventilation on the top and bottom of the left, right, and back sides

2. These are placed at the actual top and bottom of the island (not centered or 6” down)

3. No vent cover to restrict airflow

4. An open cabinet to allow proper cross-ventilation

5. There’s 7 vents, not just 2

6. You have side-to-side, side-to-back, and front-to-back ventilation

7. A small front gap under the grill to help flush potential gas leaks

And if your island is under cover, a stainless steel outdoor vent hood is a must.

Feeling overwhelmed?

Don’t worry! If you decide to work with RTA… You’ll be assigned a Design Expert to walk you through the entire process. (Including recommendations for safe placement!)

Since we’ve got the safety side of things covered… That leaves you more time to enjoy planning your outdoor kitchen design.

There’s all manner of built-in grills, griddles, kamados, pizza ovens, side burners, and other outdoor cooking appliances to consider!

Excited yet?

If so… Start planning your layout with our free outdoor kitchen design tool!

And from there… We’ll be in touch!

Need More assistance?

Our outdoor kitchen Design Experts know ventilation requirements inside and out. Schedule a free call to get your questions answered.

BOOK A CALL

FAQ

Do I Need a Vent for Outdoor Kitchen?

Yes, you must ventilate your outdoor kitchen! Gasses from your appliances will build up in your island and put your family at serious risk. Left unchecked, your island can actually explode. It is critical that you properly ventilate your island to allow these gasses to flush out.