James King – RTA Outdoor Living

Patio Islands, Bars, and Kits: 4 Best Brands & Ideas to Consider – RTA Outdoor Living

James King — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 14:20:06 +0000

Whether it’s the beginning of spring or the peak of summer… grilling and entertaining is the height of outdoor living.

And while a freestanding grill is a decent way to satisfy your BBQ cravings… the experience doesn’t hit its pinnacle until you have a patio island.

Hence, why you’ve landed on this very article.

A patio island is an excellent addition to your backyard space… but it raises a ton of questions.

What type of patio island do you want?

Who should you buy one from?

What are your design and layout options?

All of these are great questions… that all deserve a detailed, thought-out answer. (Which you’ll receive in this article!)

Who are we to talk?

Well, we live and breathe outdoor kitchens! We’ve designed and built thousands of patio islands over the years… as well as deeply analyzed grill island offerings from other brands. Immersion in the outdoor kitchen space is what we do best.

With all that said… let’s get started.

Quick Links:

What Type of Patio Island Should You Buy? 3 Different Setup Options
4 Patio Island Kit Brands for Your Consideration
3 Never-Before-Seen Patio Island Ideas
Feeling Overwhelmed? Get Started Here

3 Types of Patio Islands

Before you jump in full steam ahead on your patio island project… you first must decide what kind of patio island you’d like.

Thankfully, after hearing the description of each kind… it’ll be pretty easy to know what type piques your interest.

Grill Island

Otherwise known as an outdoor kitchen or a BBQ grill island… this is the option that most likely came to mind first.

It’s an outdoor island with a grill inside (or some other cooking appliance).

That’s it!

But a grill island can be much more than this bare-bones definition. It can include a kamado or pellet grill rather than natural gas… and it can include other appliances like side burners, flat tops, access doors, or storage drawers.

No matter how much you choose to deck out your grill island… if you’re primarily focused on grilling, this kitchen design is likely the right choice for you.

But what if you prefer making a drink over flipping burgers?

Bar Island

If you’re more of an entertainer rather than a BBQ enthusiast… for you, it’s going to be all about the bar island.

Whether you’re shaking up cocktails… grabbing a cold one from the fridge… or just pulling up a stool to enjoy a summer night with your friends… a bar island’s going to be the ticket for you.

But what is it, exactly?

Well, it means something different to pretty much everyone.

An outdoor bar could be as simple as a plain outdoor kitchen island, with no appliances or anything… but that’s pretty bare-bones.

In most cases, a bar island involves some storage and an outdoor rated refrigerator… and possibly an outdoor sink to make bartending easier.

You’ll notice there’s no cooking appliances in this setup. If you want the best of both worlds, consider an…

Outdoor Kitchen Bar

Love to entertain and grill? In that case, your dream patio island will come in the form of an outdoor kitchen bar.

It’s a grill island and a bar island, all-in-one!

Typically, an outdoor kitchen bar will form an L shaped layout. You have a dedicated grill island on one end… and a dedicated bar island on the other.

Of course, you can mix-and-match your bar and grill accessories between the two as you wish. It all comes down to personal preference.

Now that you’ve got a baseline for the different patio island types… How about we take a look at some island bundles for purchase?

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Patio Island Kits

The quickest way to get up and running is with an outdoor kitchen kit or modular outdoor kitchen package. With these options, you won’t have to worry about coordinating with a contractor or becoming a DIY aficionado. Which means… you’re grilling and chilling with your loved ones as quickly as possible. So let’s check out some of these outdoor products, shall we?

Mont Alpi

Mont Alpi is a well-known modular outdoor kitchen brand… offering a small set of predesigned islands.

All of their islands are made with 304 stainless steel and come with a simple lineup of appliances.

Stainless steel islands are known to get super hot under the sun… and may not be the ideal choice for coastal climates.

304 stainless steel is highly rust and corrosion resistant, yes! However, it’s a bit risky to have a 100% steel island that’s constantly exposed to salty ocean air.

But if you don’t live directly on the shoreline… these outdoor kitchens are decently durable.

With those caveats covered, let’s take a brief look at some Mont Alpi patio islands.

Mont Alpi Propane Gas Grill Island

Product Highlights

Warranty

Lifetime

Finish

Stainless Steel

price

$4,131.55

For a simple, no-frills patio island… you may like the look of Mont Alpi’s 805 propane gas outdoor kitchen.

This layout comes with a large, 6 burner gas grill fit to feed an army… and a small, integrated sear burner on the side for cooking a juicy steak. (Plus a rotisserie kit!)

Each tube burner is 12,000 BTUs, pumping out a total of 72,000 BTUs.

The center of the island offers double drawer storage… and the right side of the unit comes with a set of shelved cabinetry.

No crazy bells and whistles, here! This grill cabinet’s got you covered for your basic entertaining needs.

You can currently purchase this patio island on BBQGuys for $4,131.55.

Mont Alpi Beverage Center & Bar Island

Product Highlights

warranty

Lifetime

Finish

Stainless Steel, Black Stainless Steel

price

$3,609.05

How about a patio island that can just be used as a bar? Mont Alpi has that, too.

Decked out in a stylish black stainless steel… this bar island lets you bartend at home with some serious class!

You’ve got an under counter sink for rinsing off cutting boards and washing hands… and two glass door refrigerators to keep your stash pleasantly cool.

The only thing that’s missing here is a little bit of storage! A simple drawer to stow away your cocktail making kit would significantly increase the convenience… but you can’t have everything, right? (You can, but that comes later!)

You can purchase this little L shaped patio island for $3,609.05 on BBQGuys.

Mont Alpi Linear Outdoor Kitchen Bar

Product Highlights

warranty

Lifetime

finish

Stainless Steel, Black Stainless Steel

price

$6,368.05

Can’t decide between a BBQ island and a regular bar island? Why not both?

Get the best of both worlds with this extra-long outdoor patio island from Mont Alpi.

This layout includes the same 6 burner gas grill and sear burner that you saw earlier… but with a few extra accessories.

You’ve got a small outdoor sink, mini fridge, drawer storage, and a cabinet.

Essentially, it’s the grill island and bar island we just reviewed smashed into a single unit.

Pretty neat, right?

And if you don’t love the look of this layout… Mont Alpi also sells individual modules for slight mixing-and-matching.

This island is available for purchase on BBQGuys for $6,368.05.

Bull

Primarily known for their line of outdoor grills… Bull also sells a modest line of prefabricated outdoor kitchens. (These are islands that are pre-constructed.)

You can choose from their classic, “Regular Program” line or their newer “DuraBull” line.

The Regular Program is cheaper… made with steel frames, cement board, and a quartzite or stucco finish. These materials are prone to rust, corrosion, water damage, and cracking over time.

So while you may save a bit of cash upfront… you’re likely to be disappointed with the longevity of your investment.

Hence, why Bull now offers their beefed up “DuraBull” outdoor kitchen line. These outdoor kitchen cabinets are instead made with HDPE. This is a type of plastic that is well-suited to the outdoor environment. (With a meaningful difference in price to account for this, of course!)

That said, let’s take a peek at some patio kitchen islands from Bull.

Bull Patio Q Grill Island

Product Highlights

warranty

Limited

finish

Quartzite

price

$5,928.00

Short on space? This little outdoor patio grill island could fit just about anywhere!

Equipped with a modest, 4 burner grill and mini bar top… you can grill and prep with ease!

You’ll also note a small access door underneath the grill to access the interior of your island.

And that’s about all there is to it! The finish is available in 5 colors, and will come with a tile countertop. (We won’t get into the details here, but we recommend steering away from tile.)

Currently, the Patio Q island is priced at $5,928.00 on Bull’s website.

Bull Augusta Outdoor Kitchen Bar

Product Highlights

warranty

Limited

finish

Quartzite

price

$22,999.00

Wait… what happened to the “outdoor bar” category for Bull?

Well, Bull doesn’t offer a design that we’d classify as a standalone outdoor bar. So in this case, we’re skipping straight to the outdoor kitchen bar.

And it’s surely a beaut!

Coming from Bull’s DuraBull line… this large L shaped island is a great foundation for entertaining outdoors.

This design features a 4 burner gas grill dishing out 75,000 BTUs, an outdoor refrigerator… and plenty of storage space spread out amongst the cabinets.

If you just need a grill, a fridge, and plenty of space for guests to sit… there’s not much to complain about with this layout!

At the time of writing, you can purchase the Augusta 10’ kitchen for $22,999.00.

Newage

Newage is a prominent modular outdoor kitchen manufacturer… but they are also well known for their line of garage storage products and outdoor furniture.

When it comes to patio islands… Newage primarily sells individual cabinet units that you can arrange yourself to create a design.

However, they do have some predesigned layouts available that we’ll take a look at.

Newage’s outdoor kitchens will either be constructed from 304 stainless steel or aircraft-grade aluminum. (These will have the same downsides as Mont Alpi that we mentioned earlier.)

It’s also worth noting that not all of Newage’s product listings come with a countertop. If you want the stainless steel countertop included… be sure to double check the item you’re ordering!

Let’s take a closer look.

Newage 5 Piece Grill Island

Product Highlights

warranty

Limited Lifetime

finish

Aircraft-Grade Aluminum

price

$5,809.99

Grill on one side, and prep on the other side with this offset patio island setup!

This layout comes with a 3-burner, 36,000 BTU liquid propane grill, and plenty of storage.

With a set of triple drawers and extra access doors… you’ll have no shortage of space to stow away your BBQ utensils.

And that’s really all there is to it!

At the time of writing, this patio BBQ island goes for a $5,809.99 MSRP.

Newage Aluminum 5 Piece Patio Bar Island

Product Highlights

warranty

Limited Lifetime

finish

Aircraft-Grade Aluminum

price

$4,219.99

For those of you seeking a simple bar island… you’ll appreciate the grayscale hues on this selection from Newage.

The aircraft-grade aluminum has a pleasing slate gray shade… subtly contrasted with the pure stainless steel hardware, countertops, and refrigerator.

The refrigerator does most of the heavy lifting for your entertaining purposes, of course. But the cabinet and drawer storage can be well utilized for storing wine glasses, napkins, and other bar accessories.

You can purchase this setup on Newage’s website for a $4,219.99 MSRP.

Newage 5 Piece Outdoor Kitchen Bar

Product Highlights

warranty

Limited Lifetime

finish

Aircraft-Grade Aluminum

price

$6,119.99

Wrapping up the examples from NewAge… we’ve got their 5 piece (seeing a theme?) outdoor kitchen bar island.

This is another uncomplicated setup for the no-frills entertainer!

This linear patio island includes a 33”, 36”, or 40” built-in grill (with 61,500 – 78,000 BTUs), an outdoor sink… and an abundance of cabinet storage.

Admittedly, there isn’t much room for guests to be seated and enjoy a drink. So if you want more counter space, you may consider adding more modules.

But if this setup is looking just right to you… you can purchase it on Newage’s website for $6,119.99.

Looking for Something More Robust?

Start designing your custom patio island... constructed with pure high performance and weather resistant concrete.

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RTA Outdoor Living

Now that you’ve seen some selections from a few popular brands… let’s finish out the review with something completely different.

Our ready to assemble outdoor kitchens.

Instead of modular units that you mix-and-match together… RTA islands arrive to your door as solid, high performance concrete panels.

The finish is integrated right into the structure, and in a few hours… you have a complete, all-weather hardy outdoor kitchen that’s ready to grill.

We have a selection of pre-designed islands that reflect our most popular layouts… but you can also fully customize your patio island with our free online design tool.

That said, let’s take a peek at some prime patio island kits.

RTA Grill Island with Power Burner

Product Highlights

warranty

Lifetime

finish

High Performance Concrete Composite

price

$11,195.00

Need to maximize your cooking potential? Look no further than this linear grill island… packed to the gills with a premium grill and aptly-named power burner.

The 36” Coyote grill dishes out 80,000 BTUs of flaming heat… and the power burner can shell out an additional 60,000 BTUs.

So while you’re cooking burgers or searing a steak… you can whip up a side dish at the same time.

And in no time at all, dinner’s served!

You can purchase this outdoor kitchen kit on our site for $11,195.00.

RTA Bar Island with Refreshment Center

Product Highlights

warranty

Lifetime

finish

High Performance Concrete Composite

price

$7,795.00

Easily entertain friends and family with the help of our 7’ refreshment bar island!

Our bar islands sit at a taller height compared to most other brands… allowing you to slide a bar stool under the counter for more comfortable seating.

But that’s not the only benefit!

This patio island comes part and parcel with a full-on refreshment center. This little accessory is far more than just an outdoor sink… it also has an integrated drop-in cooler, condiment tray, cutting board, bottle rack, bottle opener, and a towel holder!

That’s a ton of versatility in a single appliance… So pop open a drink and let the good times roll!

This bar island is currently available for purchase for $7,795.00.

RTA Premium Outdoor Kitchen Bar with Fridge and Pull Out Trash

Product Highlights

warranty

Lifetime

finish

High Performance Concrete Composite

price

$18,389.00

Let’s wrap up this list with a patio island kit that truly takes the cake.

For all your grilling and chilling needs… there’s nothing this L shaped outdoor kitchen can’t do!

The 36” grill with an 80,000 BTU output is your reliable grilling machine… while the refrigerator, refreshment center, and pull out trash bin do the heavy lifting for your hosting needs.

Need to rinse your hands? No problem.

Need to grab a cold drink? It’s right there.

Got some trash that needs to be cleaned up? Make it disappear in seconds.

All in all, this outdoor kitchen design is a surefire way to stress-free hosting.

You can purchase this patio island kit for $18,389.00 on our website.

Patio Island Ideas

Before you go off to continue your research… let’s go beyond window shopping, and get into a little design inspiration.

Because the reality is… the patio island of your dreams may not be found in a kit.

So to whet your designer appetite, get inspired by these 3 layouts.

1. Galley Patio Island with All the Fixings

If you want to go all-out on your outdoor cooking setup… few things will appeal to you more than this galley design.

It’s fully packed with every appliance you could imagine!

You’ve got your standard gas grill, a kamado smoker, a pizza oven, a set of dual side burners… and even an Argentinian grill! (You don’t see those very often.)

With all the incredible food you’ll be making, you need some extra workspace! Hence, where the bar island comes into play.

That wide-open countertop provides plenty of play for food prep… and also doubles as a serving station when you’re ready to plate your delightful dishes.

In our minds, this design doesn’t get better for the true outdoor chef.

2. U Shaped Patio Island Idea Fit for a Feast

Let’s look at another outdoor kitchen design that’s larger than life.

There’s not quite so many cooking appliances here, but there’s still plenty to rave about!

You’ve got a deluxe grill with an integrated sear burner, flat top griddle, pizza oven, and a sleek kamado smoker.

Breakfast al fresco and pizza for dinner, anyone?

And to assist with your entertaining pursuits… you’ve got an outdoor sink, refrigerator, pull out trash, and an open bar top.

While you’re making a pizza, your friends are right there at the bar with you… so you won’t miss a second of the conversation!

What can we say? It’s the complete package.

3. Small Patio Kitchen Island Idea

For our final snippet of design inspiration… let’s dial it back with this modest L shaped layout.

This outdoor kitchen is equipped with all the amenities you would normally expect… just on a smaller scale.

The miniature 2-burner grill is great for the small family of 2-3… and the same goes for that teeny kamado smoker!

Plus, there’s still room leftover for a bit of storage and a pull out trash bin.

Pull up a bar stool, enjoy your burger right outside… and feel free to pop open the umbrella if the sun is beating down too hard.

You know what? Good things do come in small packages.

So now that you’ve got a plethora of patio island ideas dancing in your mind… where do you begin?

This Patio Island Solution is a Dream

At this stage… you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed about where to start.

Well, allow us to ease your worries… because the first step is simple.

Start with creating a custom patio island design!

There’s even a free tool available for you to use… so there’s no need to shell out any of your hard-earned cash.

Our free online design tool allows you to create a fully personalized patio island design in mere minutes.

Just click through the steps, pick out what looks good to you, and at the end… you’ll be greeted with a 3D rendering of the design you just created.

And if you have a smartphone, you can even see what it will look like in your backyard!

The design tool also comes equipped with an AR (augmented reality) feature. Through the camera app on your phone… your design will pop up on the screen as if it’s really in your backyard.

Pretty impressive, right?

Give it a try, let us know how it goes… and we’ll be in touch.

Looking for More Assistance?

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Outdoor Kitchen Photos: 24 Gorgeous Examples – RTA Outdoor Living

James King — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 16:28:37 +0000

So, you know you want a new outdoor kitchen, but you’re not sure where to begin.

First, you should ask yourself: “Why do I want to build an outdoor kitchen?”

Are you interested in cooking outdoors for yourself and your family?

Do you want to entertain large groups of friends with an al fresco dining experience?

Or do you simply want to impress the neighborhood?

Our team at RTA Outdoor Living has helped thousands of customers dream up and build their perfect outdoor kitchen ideas. From the smallest DIY grill islands… to extravagant banquet-style kitchens.

Before you get ready to start your own project, it might help to peruse some of our favorite completed projects from happy customers.

Remember, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery… So let’s get to it.

Quick Links:

24 Jaw-Dropping Outdoor Kitchen Photos
How to Go from Photos… to Real Life

24 Jaw-Dropping Outdoor Kitchen Photos

1. Simple Outdoor Kitchen Design

Coming out of the gate, we have a simple, yet fully functional grill island setup. It is perfect for beginners to backyard design and outdoor cooking.

No bells and whistles, just a short island with a grill and storage space underneath. Of course, you need the outdoor kitchen countertops off to the side for food prep and tool storage while cooking.

An added refrigerator means you can keep marinating meat or other ingredients ready to go… And maybe a cold beverage (or two!) to pop when it’s time to fire up the grill.

You’ll earn bonus efficiency points for building the counter space right next to the stairs… So if you have long arms you can simply reach over.

2. The Functional Outdoor Kitchen

Adding a bit more to the basic linear set up, this island features a grill with room for counter space on either side.

It may surprise you how much more functional an island grill can feel with the simple addition of more surface area.

The handy left-to-right layout means you can keep prepped ingredients and raw meat to the left of the grill before firing them. Then, you can progress over to a separate surface for cooked items. (Remember to let them cool!)

Add in the small outdoor refrigerator, island storage, and pull-out trash bin and you’ve got an efficient outdoor kitchen.

3. The Off-Set Deck Dining Area

Getting a little more complex, this kitchen example features two islands, off-set on the same deck of this home.

In variation from a typical style, the design doesn’t include a traditional grill but rather favors a flat top and dual side gas burner on the main island. The secondary island features a sink, storage and a pull-out trash can.

The long, empty countertops on the secondary island would make this setup perfect for catering or setting up a buffet.

4. Outdoor Entertaining Oasis with TV & Bar

This outdoor kitchen is tucked perfectly into the covered patio of this house. It efficiently sits against the side wall so it doesn’t interfere with the sitting area.

Likewise, a basic patio chair and table can help keep guests out of the way while you are working on the grill. A wall-mounted television adds some extra entertainment to the mix.

Placing an outdoor kitchen sink right next to the grill means you can keep your hands clean while grilling. The minifridge add-on will help with keeping cold ingredients or drinks at arm’s length.

This setup would be perfect for entertaining a small group outside or grilling out while watching the television.

5. Gas and Charcoal Outdoor Kitchen Design

Next we have an eye-catching design of a linear island featuring a gas grill as well as a charcoal grill, storage drawers, and a stacked stone finish.

If you just can’t choose between both cooking methods… this is the setup for you. You can either use gas to quickly cook and maintain stable heat… or charcoal to reach higher temperatures and impart smoky flavor.

It’s a deceptively simple, (but actually quite flexible!) setup.

6. Rustic Outdoor Kitchen Photo at The Farm House

This rustic outdoor kitchen is giving an early-morning farm house vibe. Somewhere in the countryside, where your closest neighbor is miles down the road.

The linear setup is quite traditional, placing the grill in the middle with storage and some extra counter space.

This kitchen would be perfect for slowly grilling out sausages or skewers for lunch. Meanwhile, you can scramble up some fresh eggs for breakfast using the dual side gas burner on the side. (Now that’s multitasking!)

The pull-out double drawers, storage, and pull-out trash bin offer even more versatility to this simple set up.

7. Outdoor Kitchen by the Pool

This linear design is perfect for a poolside outdoor living space, ideal for grilling burgers and hotdogs for a party or weekend hang out.

This island offers some storage but no refrigeration or trash bin, which implies the indoor kitchen is likely close by for easy access.

That’s good, because you can take advantage of those savings to get another appliance, like an outdoor pizza oven or smoker.

The addition of a Coyote asado smoker adds some versatility to the island. With that, you can always smoke something slowly throughout the day.

8. The L-Bar Dining Area

This functional L-shaped island with outdoor kitchen bar seating is perfect for entertainment.

The small refrigerator and storage drawers will make a smooth cooking experience. That way, you can keep up a conversation while you’re working.

Bonus points for the functionality of the bar providing a small space for additional ingredients, tools, or cooked food items.

The modern stone ash finish blends well into the stone patio, creating an elegant dining area to entertain a small group or even a date seated at your bar.

Need Help With Your Plans?

Talk to one of our expert designers and they will guide you from planning to installation.

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9. Poolside Pergola Outdoor Kitchen

Now we are getting into some fancier designs with a few extra perks… starting with this multi-appliance setup under a poolside pergola.

The L-shaped island provides a solid base for plenty of outdoor kitchen appliances and accessories. The Coyote grill and built-in single side burner are the main players here.

Plenty of storage, a small refrigerator, and a sink round out this outdoor kitchen.

This grilling and refreshment area is perfect for outdoor entertaining, with plenty of room for bar seating alongside the island.

10. Covered Outdoor Kitchen Photo with a Mounted TV

This outdoor cooking space begins with a grill island, complete with a built-in flat top and plenty of storage. The L-shaped bar provides some extra counter space, as well as a dining area for your guests.

With the bar stools set up to face the wall-mounted television, it’s clear that this outdoor kitchen is a space for entertaining. You and your friends could sit out here all night watching movies or sports with some grilled snacks.

11. The Counter Culture Patio Kitchen

Extra counter space can be a luxurious feature for an outdoor kitchen, in some cases even more so than kitchen appliances.

If all you have in mind is a built-in grill and a space to entertain folks, it might be worth the investment to build out some additional islands.

Extra islands means more space for outdoor weatherproof storage. It also means more accessories, including refrigerators, spice racks and outdoor kitchen cabinets.

Even if you don’t fill out the counter space with smokers or pizza ovens… you can still use the surfaces for other fixtures or decorations.

You could imagine celebrating a family birthday or holiday in this outdoor kitchen. There’s plenty of room for your guests to sit around the grill to chat with the cook (or even help with the cooking!)

12. Outdoor Pizza Oven Patio Kitchen

It’s just starting to snow in this outdoor kitchen photo, which depicts a cozy outdoor dining space complete with a wood fired pizza oven.

The setup is pure efficient functionality. You waste no square footage integrating an outdoor kitchen into an established patio backyard space.

The Alfa pizza oven is a perfect addition to the grill island. It provides a platform for easy cooking and entertainment for guests at the table or couch seating area.
This would be another great space for a birthday party or even a gaming setup. It utilizes the outdoor furniture as a central gathering space to connect the cook with the party.

13. Doggy Dining Area

A full outdoor kitchen integrates perfectly into the backyard of this home. This homeowner clearly already spent a lot of time outside, tending to their plants and hanging out with their dog.

A new grilling space is a great way to enhance that experience and entice guests to join you.

This L-shaped island includes a Coyote grill, asado sleeve, small refrigerator, and an outdoor kitchen sink.

Unfortunately, we can’t provide a German Shepherd with our outdoor kitchens. But if you do have your own furry friend at home, you can be sure they’ll enjoy the smell of grilling meat as much as you do. SIT, no begging!

14. Covered Outdoor Kitchen Photo with a Smoker

This kitchen’s close proximity to the house means you can pop in and out of the house while cooking outdoors. Otherwise, you could stick around outside to chat with guests.

The Coyote pellet grill is bookended by an asado smoker and an L-shaped bar island. There, you can use the counter for extra surface space or guests can pull up a stool around the other side.

A small refrigerator, pull-out trash can, and drawer storage round out the utility of this outdoor kitchen design.

Imagine you have some meat slow-cooking in the smoker, while guests mingle at the bar, in the yard, or even inside the house.

This grilling and smoking space provides a lot of versatility for entertainment.

15. New York Contemporary Outdoor Kitchen Photo

This rooftop patio kitchen overlooks the skyline of New York City. It showcases the flexibility and ease of construction that a ready-to-assemble grill island can provide.

The Coyote grill is the centerpiece of the island. It is coupled with a double side burner, and accessories including storage, drawers, a small refrigerator, and a pull-out trash can.

The L-shaped bar provides some extra kitchen countertops or a place for guests to sit.

You could spend a full evening outside in this modern outdoor kitchen, cooking on the grill and grabbing drinks from the fridge. The bar even provides a place to set your drink while you look out over the railing, watching the city from up above.

16. Smoker Bar Outdoor Kitchen Design Photo

Outside this home, a clean linear kitchen island provides a space to grill out for an evening or spend a weekend entertaining guests.

This island centers on a Coyote grill with storage and a pull out trash can.

An asado smoker adds more utility to this outdoor kitchen. It provides the extra capability to slow cook meats or other items while resting indoors.

With no outdoor bar seating, it’s hard to imagine your guests crowding around the cooking space… but that actually can be practical (even ideal!) for a grill cook who prefers to utilize their outdoor kitchen alone or away from the distractions of a party.

17. Corner Cooking Kitchen Island

This L-shaped island is full of style… it completes the space with a dining table and multiple seating areas.

You can tell this kitchen gets some use from a real outdoor cooking enthusiast by the practicality of the design as well as the aesthetic appeal…

And with so many seats available, your whole family or friend group can enjoy a cookout together.

A Coyote grill and flat top bookend a prized Alfa pizza oven, supported by plenty of storage, a small refrigerator and a pull-out trash can.

18. Pergola Banquet Covered Outdoor Kitchen Photos

Looking across the central outdoor fireplace feature of a swanky patio, we can see an elaborate cooking area under a well-lit pergola.

The actual U-shaped kitchen is compact and efficient. It provides enough space and utility for one or two cooks to work together to provide for a large group.

This outdoor kitchen design is clearly meant to entertain medium to large-sized groups. No problem for the Coyote grill, large flat top, and Alfa wood fired pizza oven.

You could imagine a celebration here… maybe a birthday party, or even a small wedding in this wide-open neighborhood space. It’s obvious that a kitchen like this is meant for a homeowner who aims to entertain and to impress.

19. U-Shaped Outdoor Kitchen Design Photo

This U-Shaped outdoor kitchen fills out the backyard of this California home… It comes complete with a finished outdoor patio floor amongst the surrounding greenery.

The Coyote grill forms the main cooking arm of this modern outdoor kitchen. It is supported by plenty of cabinetry, a small refrigerator, pull-out trash can, and a drop-in cooler.

The real driver of this kitchen is the wide and ample kitchen countertops. Those can be used for plating, additional utility, or an outdoor bar space for your guests.

20. The Tropical Galley Outdoor Kitchen Design

Galley-style kitchens combine a linear outdoor grill island with the benefits of bar seating and extra counter space.

The compact main island forgoes the gas grill in favor of a flat top cooking surface. At the same time, a kitchen sink and outdoor refrigerator cabinet are perfect for making drinks or snacks.

Pull-up bar seating, a mounted television, and an island-style patio cover complete this little slice of paradise in Key Largo, Florida… Perfect for a grill-out party or a weekend sports event.

If you are looking to feel like you are on summer vacation in your own backyard, this outdoor kitchen photo might just be the inspiration you need.

21. Gazebo Outdoor Kitchen

Covered gazebos are the perfect place for an outdoor kitchen. They provide a functional cooking area to a natural entertainment space.

This bar island is tucked into the corner of the gazebo. This creates a distinct bar center that’s perfect for bringing your bartending dreams to life!

22. Stone Outdoor Kitchen Design Photo

This galley backyard kitchen fits right into the stone patio of this home.

With a gas grill, refrigerator, and pull out trash can on the grill island… And storage with an open countertop on the other end… You’re more than set up to cook for a stunning waterfront soiree.

We love the tasteful use of decoration on both islands, as well.

The only thing that’s missing?

A fire pit to seal the deal on a beautiful evening al fresco!

23. The Red-on-Red Outdoor Kitchen

Setting up your outdoor kitchen front-and-center of your home is a great way to make your neighbors jealous.

Just imagine parking this absolute social statement right next to the cul-de-sac. (Not to mention the neighborhood mailboxes!)

A large Coyote grill and flat top burner form the centerpiece of the grill island. A matching red asado smoker and Alfa home pizza oven sit proudly on the flanks.

A small outdoor refrigerator, pull-out trash bin, and ample storage complete the package.

You really want your outdoor kitchen design ideas to be the talk of your neighborhood… so why not consider dropping it right in the front of your house for all to see and envy?

24. Poolside Patio Kitchen

This homeowner pulled out all the stops to turn their covered outdoor pool and kitchen area into a backyard BBQ dream.

A Coyote grill and power burner drives the main island. A matching pizza oven commands the room, mounted on the corner island.

You couldn’t ask for more counter surfaces or storage space to accommodate this large outdoor living room and kitchen.

Who’s ready to grill?

Time To Design Your Own Outdoor Kitchen

So, you’ve come this far. You’ve seen a variety of outdoor kitchen layouts ranging from the humble grill island to extravagant lifestyle arenas.

It can be tough to reach the grandeur of some outdoor kitchens… But you might find some inspiration from these beautiful outdoor kitchen photos.

All that remains is to figure out the kind of kitchen you are looking for… We hope you’ve been taking notes!

Surely, after admiring all the ways these homeowners designed their outdoor kitchens, you’ve got some ideas of your own now.

We can be flexible to almost any idea you throw at us… That’s because our outdoor kitchens are made from easy-to-assemble panels, cut and shaped to fit your custom design.

We can accommodate designs for any size of island, decked out with appliances and accessories from Coyote. Gas, charcoal, and pellet grills, even smokers and pizza ovens. You name it, because you’re in the driver’s seat now.

Don’t worry, it’s easy enough to start using our free outdoor kitchen design software to design your outdoor kitchen remodel in just 5 minutes.

And if you have a unique idea that our design tool can’t accommodate… our Design Team will work with you one-on-one to try to make it happen. (Or try to figure out something even better!)

It’s simple, and it’s fun! Just the way life should be

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.

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Outdoor Kitchen Grill: In-Depth Review of 4 Brands, & Your Best Choice

James King — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 14:49:51 +0000

When you imagine an outdoor kitchen… There’s a 99% chance that the island you picture has a built-in grill head.

It makes total sense. Outdoor kitchens and built-in grills go together like ribs and BBQ sauce… And some would say that you can’t have one without the other.

So when planning your own outdoor kitchen space… One of the first things that comes to mind is probably: “Which outdoor kitchen grill should I choose?”

It’s the most important part of your outdoor kitchen island, after all… And we’re here to give you the answers you’re seeking.

As an outdoor kitchen company ourselves… We’ve been studying the best built-in grills for years.

So today, we’re going to share our refined knowledge on the topic with you.

But first, we need to fully grasp what an outdoor kitchen grill is…And all the different ways to go about getting an outdoor kitchen and grill setup in 2024.

Let’s dig in.

Quick Links:

What is an Outdoor Kitchen Grill?
The Best Outdoor Kitchen and Grill Kits for 2024
Who Should You Choose? We Weigh in
Getting Started with a Premium Outdoor Kitchen Brand

What is an Outdoor Kitchen Grill?

An outdoor kitchen grill goes by many names.

Drop-in grill, built-in grill, grill insert, grill head… The list goes on.

All of these terms refer to the same thing: A grill that’s specially designed to be built into the structure of an outdoor kitchen. (That you cook great BBQ with, of course!)

Easy enough to understand!

When getting an outdoor kitchen with a built-in grill, there are two common paths you can take.

You can choose a fully premade outdoor kitchen kit, complete with a built-in grill head.
Or…
You can design and build an outdoor kitchen island from scratch… And select a built-in grill to pair with your custom outdoor cooking station.

If simple and convenient are more your speed… The former is probably the solution for you. All you have to do is buy a pre-designed outdoor kitchen… Without having to worry about all the small design details and spend time agonizing about which built-in grill brand is just right.

But if you’re all for custom bells and whistles in your outdoor cooking station… You probably already have a specific vision for your ideal built in grill and outdoor kitchen design. Choosing a built-in grill head to place in your scratch-built grill island surround is the better path to take.

In either case… You’ll need a good baseline to kick off from.

So with that, let’s review some of the best outdoor kitchen grill and grill island brands on the market today.

Interested in a custom outdoor kitchen grill?

Design your dream outdoor cooking area in minutes with the help of our free design tool.

START DESIGNING

The Best Outdoor Kitchen Grill Brands of 2024

We don’t know about you… But when we shop, we like to be able to get everything in one place.

So for the purposes of researching an outdoor kitchen grill… We’re going to be presenting brands that offer both pre-manufactured island structures and come with the grill.

Let’s take a look at some products that may be worth your while.

Bull BBQ Islands & Grills

Bull is well known in the grilling industry for their line of built-in and freestanding grill heads… But not everyone knows that they also manufacture prefabricated outdoor kitchens.

For the unfamiliar… Prefab outdoor kitchens are fully constructed ahead of time, and delivered to your home in this manner. (Sometimes, a crane is required to drop them into your backyard.)

Currently, they have several options at your disposal… But we’ll only be doing a brief overview here.

That said, layout, appliance, and finish selections are pretty similar across the board.

Read on for a quick summary on these products.

Regular Program Outdoor Kitchen Components

Although not the most exciting name in the world… It’s perfectly descriptive of Bull’s bread and butter prefab islands.

These outdoor kitchens are made from a combo of steel frames, cement board, and your finish of choice (quartzite or stucco).

As for countertops, you’re able to select from several shades of porcelain tile.

Layouts are arranged in either linear or L-shaped formations of different sizes. You can get an L-shape if you want a little bar top… Or stick with a linear island for a straight-up BBQ island.

We’ll admit, appliance selection is pretty limited.

Each island can accommodate a different size built-in gas grill from Bull… But there are currently no options for a charcoal grill.

Some islands will include a small side burner as well… But that’s where your cooking appliance options begin and end.

Aside from this, refrigerators, storage, and pull out trash bins are the other features worth looking into.

Faux Rock Outdoor Kitchens

Bull’s Faux Rock outdoor cooking islands are virtually identical to the Regular Program selection… The only real difference here is the finish and layout options.

Rather than a quartzite stone finish… This category offers two colors of a Genstone finish. This faux stone is more lifelike, and may be preferable if you appreciate a rustic aesthetic.

Just like the Regular Program, porcelain tiles come standard with these products.

Currently, only two layouts are on offer. Both are linear, including a gas grill, side burner, refrigerator, and access doors for accessories.

Solid Surface Outdoor Kitchens

Once again, this category is a spin-off of Bull’s Regular Program.

The same steel frames, cement board, and stucco finish is used… The only difference here being the countertop.

Instead of regular porcelain tile… You’re still getting porcelain tile, but in a solid piece. Which means no grout lines or joints. (This is an improvement!)

Otherwise, only two linear layout options are available. Both will include a gas grill, refrigerator, and storage… The primary difference between them is size.

Durabull Outdoor Kitchens

Bull’s new Durabull prefab islands marks a significant departure from their other outdoor kitchen grills, primarily in construction.

In this line, Bull abandons the steel frame construction and opts for HDPE cabinets instead. This is a far more durable material overall, and won’t be subject to issues like rust and corrosion.

However… HDPE is a combustible material and you must use an insulated grill jacket for safety. We were unable to determine if Bull includes one, so reach out to them to confirm.

Aside from this, the Durabull line includes upgraded granite countertops as well. This is great to see, as granite is a stellar material for outdoor durability.

As per usual, layout options are pretty basic. There are four options in total: two linear designs, and two L-shaped designs.

These islands will include a gas grill and refrigerator… With wall-to-wall cabinets throughout the rest.

Bull Product Highlights

Price: $6,000.00 – $23,000.00

Island Materials: Steel frame and cement board or HDPE

Warranty: 1 year for islands, Appliances vary

Overall Thoughts: Bull’s Regular Program, Faux Rock, and Solid Surface kitchens are budget-friendly, but leave much to be desired in terms of quality. Framed islands are susceptible to rust, corrosion, and finish deterioration. Bull’s Durabull model is a strong step in the right direction, but the extremely short warranty stops us short from a glowing recommendation on that building option.

Cal Flame Outdoor Kitchen Islands & Grills

Cal Flame has been building outdoor kitchens since the late 90’s… And has made quite a name for themselves in this time.

That said, for the most part… Cal Flame’s prefab islands are similar to Bull in many ways.

Materials are similar… Appliance options are similar… And they also have three categories to select from.

Let’s take a closer look at these products.

Patio Series

Cal Flame’s Patio Series is designed for small spaces. Each outdoor kitchen grill layout has a modest size… So if you don’t have much entertaining area to work with, this may appeal to you.

Each island is constructed with welded, 16-gauge galvanized steel, covered with Hardibacker ceramic tile backboard… And finished with ameristone stucco or faux wood. (We can’t confirm what this wood finish is made from.)

While it’s good to see welded frames… This construction method still proves to be problematic in harsh climates, where rust and corrosion are an ever-present risk.

As for countertops, natural stone tile or porcelain stone tile are your options.

That said, what about the grill? What fuel type can you get?

Just gas.

That’s great if that’s what you’re looking for! But charcoal fans might be feeling a little left out in the cold here.

But that’s pretty much all there is to the Patio Series islands. You have three layout options (linear or small L-shape), a gas grill, and an access door underneath.

Escape Series

Overall, Cal Flame’s Escape Series is pretty much identical… The only difference being layouts, finishes, and size.

Construction type and materials are the same.. Apart from the fact that you can select a cultured stone finish in some cases. (Some layouts also can be upgraded to a granite countertop.)

The Escape Series offers 8 linear and L-shape layouts in different configurations.

All of them will include a 304 stainless steel gas grill, refrigerator, and access doors.

You have a little more counter space for food prep… And one layout offers a mini bar top for serving and entertaining.

Not much to report here!

Premium Series

The Premium Series offers the “best and brightest” from Cal Flame’s BBQ island designs.

You get the same materials, countertops, and finish options as before… Just more of it.

The Premium Series places three layouts at your disposal.

One is a pseudo U-shape, with a mini bar top on either side of the island. Another is a classic L-shape… And the third is an L-shape type layout, with a corner forming the bend.

Once again, you’ll encounter Cal Flame’s 304 stainless steel natural gas grills across the board. Additionally, each island will have an outdoor refrigerator, access doors, and propane tank storage.

Beyond this, each layout will have a slightly different appliance offering.

La Jolla has a double side burner
Carmel has an outdoor faucet and single side burner
Laguna Q has a sink with refreshment center for serving up cocktails

There’s certainly a bit more variety with Cal Flame’s premium series… But what if you really want to go all out with your outdoor kitchen space?

Product Highlights

Price: $4,000 – $12,000+

Island Materials: Galvanized steel frame with Hardibacker cement board

Warranty: Lifetime Structural Warranty on Island, Appliances Vary

Overall Thoughts: While we appreciate the inclusion of durable 304 stainless steel accessories and a budget-friendly price… Cal Flame’s less than stellar construction quality and design limitation leaves more to be desired. Could be a decent short-term solution in more dry or arid climates, where moisture is less of a concern. That said, the lifetime structural warranty is encouraging.

Coyote x RTA

Yes, it’s true. We’re throwing our hat in the ring and bragging about ourselves a little bit.

RTA (hey, that’s us!) has partnered with Coyote Outdoor Living to create a one-stop outdoor kitchen solution you’ve never seen anywhere else.

Our outdoor kitchens are ready to assemble, which is slightly different from a prefab island.

Rather than getting a fully constructed island delivered to your home… Our islands require light assembly that takes just a couple hours to put together. (We transform your backyard like it’s magic!)

This allows us to be much more nimble when it comes to customization and personalization. We do have plenty of pre-designed islands you can choose from… But if you want a BBQ island that’s truly unique to you, we can do that too.

Every RTA outdoor kitchen is easily constructed with high performance concrete. This means our islands are impervious to rust, corrosion, and damage from freeze thaw cycles. (Northerners, rejoice!)

Countertop options will be either that very same high performance concrete… Or nearly-indestructible solid granite tops.

The included Coyote appliances are 304 stainless steel construction across the board, and depending on what route you go down… You’ll have access to their entire suite of outdoor appliances. (Grills, drawers, sinks, and more!)

Without further ado…

RTA Quick Ship Kitchens

If you appreciate the simplicity of having an outdoor kitchen grill already designed for you… The Quick Ship line from RTA is what you’ll prefer.

This is our selection of all the most popular layouts we’ve designed over the years.

In total, there are 18 unique layouts on offer with 8 different finishes and color options available. (Stacked stone, weathered wood, reclaimed brick, and modern concrete are the textures to choose from.)

Throughout the line, every island will include a natural gas or propane grill with an access door underneath. (Don’t worry charcoal-lovers… We can do custom!)

Beyond this, appliance selection comes down to the specific layout you choose. The Quick Ship category offers pull out trash bins, refrigerators, outdoor sinks, power burners, electric grills, kamado grills, side burners, and even pellet grills.

We even offer a separate stand for a kamado grill or pizza oven, if you wish.

Point is, even in our pre-designed series… We’ve got something to fit your family and lifestyle. But we don’t stop there.

RTA Custom Outdoor Kitchen Grills

If our pre-designed outdoor kitchen components simply don’t speak to you… Custom is where your outdoor kitchen space can really shine.

Do you want an outdoor griddle for breakfast al fresco? What about a gas grill with a high BTU sear burner or rotisserie burner? What about a dual fuel hybrid version that is fully equipped for gas and charcoal?

All of the above appliance options are unlocked with the custom process.

But you also unlock a range of nearly-unlimited amount of outdoor kitchen designs.

Linear, L-shape, U-shape, galley, BBQ islands, bar islands, a mix of both… Whatever it is, our custom process makes it possible.

You’ll start with either crafting a layout in our design tool, or hopping straight to a call with one of our Design Experts.

Either way… We’ll work one-on-one with you to ensure your outdoor cooking space is truly a dream come true.

Product Highlights

Price: $5,700 – $18,000+

Island Materials: High performance concrete

Warranty: Limited Lifetime on Structure & Appliances

Overall Thoughts: What can we say? We’re not the cheapest option. But… With RTA, you get premium grills, virtually-indestructible concrete construction, a limited lifetime warranty across the board, options for complete personalization… It’s easily worth your while.

Ready to take the leap?

Bring your outdoor kitchen vision to life in just a few clicks.

START YOUR FREE DESIGN

Mont Alpi Outdoor Kitchen Grill Islands

Mont Alpi released their modular grill island line around 7 years ago, and they’ve been growing in popularity ever since.

Traditionally, modular islands are separate units you put together to create the layout you want.

Although Mont Alpi does offer modular units that you can arrange yourself… They primarily advertise their pre-designed island layouts. So for our purposes, these are the products we’ll focus on.

Original Series

As the name suggests, this is Mont Alpi’s tried and true original line.

Every outdoor cooking island will include their 6-burner 304 stainless steel gas grill with a bottle opener, backlit knobs, and optional rotisserie kit.

Their outdoor kitchen cabinets feature complete 304 stainless construction as well… And the countertops are made from granite composite. (A blend of crushed quartz, stone dust, and acrylic resin.)

So as far as the finish goes, it’s just plain steel. All the countertops will be white as well.

Aside from the liquid propane or gas grill… Each Original Series island will include an infrared side burner and drawer storage.

Additionally, some layouts will include a sink, glass door refrigerator and/or kegerator.

The Original Series has 9 configurations to choose from, being a mixture of linear and L-shape designs.

Black Series

Can you guess what’s different about this outdoor kitchen grill insert? That’s right, they’re a different color.

And that is actually the only difference! (Well, layout options are a bit different, to be fair.)

So if you prefer your BBQ island to have a sleek, black finish… You’ll prefer the black powder coat in this line, of course!

Otherwise, there are 10 unique configurations on offer, ranging from linear to L-shape.

Appliance options will include that same 6 burner gas BBQ grill, side infrared burner, and drawer storage. Beyond this, some layouts will also include an outdoor sink or glass door refrigerator.

That’s all there is to it!

Compact Series

Short on entertaining space? Mont Alpi’s Compact Series provides you with the same design, just on a smaller scale.

Once again, materials will be identical to the previous options. 304 stainless construction on the island and grill, with composite granite tops.

To save on space, these islands will come with a 4 burner grill, powder coated in black to match the island finish.

Currently, only two layout options are available. Both are linear layouts. the only difference is one will include a mini fridge… And the other will not.

Deluxe Series

On the other end of the spectrum… Mont Alpi allows you to deluxify your outdoor kitchen.

But you might not actually notice the difference at first! Rather than standard composite granite tops… They’re actually waterfall countertops for a more luxurious look.

Besides that, what makes these islands deluxe are the extra features. You’ll get a full-sized island cover, granite chopping board, and a rotisserie kit for your grill (this is an upgrade in other series).

A whopping 36 layout options are made available for purchase… So you can almost certainly find a design that speaks to you.

You can choose from layouts that are linear, L-shape, or L-shape with a corner unit.

Aside from the grill, infrared side burners, and drawer storage… You can select layouts that include a glass door refrigerator, kegerator, or outdoor faucet.

Product Highlights

Price: $2,700 – $12,000

Island Materials: 304 Stainless Steel

Warranty: Limited Lifetime on Island, Appliances Vary

Overall Thoughts: Complete 304 stainless construction is durable and overall a good choice. However, if you live in a coastal climate a 100% steel BBQ island may be cause for pause. The limited lifetime warranty is great to see. Limited finish and design options may not appeal to everyone.

The Best Outdoor Kitchen Grill Brand

Now that you’ve seen a few of the most prominent outdoor kitchen grill brands… Which is best for your family?

Well, we’ll respectfully abstain from voting, since we’ve included ourselves in the lineup.

However, we will say this… The best option to buy comes down to what you’re looking for.

Are you interested in a simple, short-term solution that won’t break the bank?

Cal Flame or Bull’s regular offerings might be a decent choice.

Do you want something impermanent, but still constructed with high quality materials?

Mont Alpi might be worth it.

Do you want an outdoor kitchen that’s rock solid, personalized to you, and designed to last a lifetime?

Well… Let’s give you some tips on that.

Get Started Now on Your Own Outdoor Kitchen SPACE

If you’re intrigued by what RTA products have to offer… Allow us to provide you with a little direction.

As we mentioned earlier, most homeowners interested in RTA start with our free online design tool.

This simple little designer allows you to start crafting your dream design in mere minutes. Plus, you’ll be rewarded with a 3D rendering of your layout immediately! (Talk about instant gratification.)

From there, one of our Design Experts will take the baton to refine your design. They’ll work one-on-one with you to nail down every last detail. (Grilling tools and all!)

Once you’re over the moon with your design and blueprints… Our manufacturing facility in Cambridge City, Indiana will get to work.

At the same time, you’ll be connected with a Project Manager to oversee the rest of the process.

While you wait patiently for your outdoor kitchen grill… Your Project Manager will educate you about preparing for installation, delivery, and be available to contact on the day of your install.

We won’t let off the gas until you’re happily entertaining with your new DIY outdoor kitchen!

It almost goes without saying, but… We’re with you every step of the way.

And if you’re ready for the full-service experience RTA can provide… Submit your design for free, and 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.

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19 Unbelievable Patio Ideas & Trends to Transform Your Backyard Space

James King — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 14:50:19 +0000

Ramping up your backyard always starts with a single project.

Your patio.

Without the patio… Your backyard design literally doesn’t have a foundation to stand on.

But it’s also a lot more than just a mere base.

Your patio creates rooms, adds beauty to your yard, and increases the value of your home.

All these features aside… To get started in earnest, you’ll need to peruse some patio ideas.

And we’ve got to tell you… You’re in the right place.

As an outdoor kitchen company, we may not directly work with patio building… But we do know quite a few tricks of the trade from a design perspective.

At the same time, we’re not just relying on our tangential understanding of patios. In this article, you’ll hear from one of the best in the hardscape business.

Are we ready and raring to go?

Let’s kick off with the trends.

Quicklinks:

The #1 Patio Trend from the Experts
19 Unbelievable Patio Ideas to Suit Any Backyard
Plan Ahead for Your Patio with This Backyard Upgrade

The Backyard Patio Trend Everyone’s Jumping On

As you begin to ponder what you’d like your patio to look like… It’s worth considering the trends.

And to get our finger on the pulse of the issue… We asked Billy Barron, founder of Bethlehem Hardscapes, what his thoughts are on the topic.

Being one of the best in the business, there’s one single trend he’s been seeing lately.

Features.

As Barron put it, “A lot of people want the outdoor kitchen, they want the fireplaces, they want the water features. You don’t want an empty space, you want a feature that you can enjoy or use.”

In recent years, there’s been a significant mindset shift when it comes to outdoor living.

Rather than honing in on just a patio and landscaping to spruce up your backyard… Homeowners are becoming laser-focused on creating an outdoor space they can make frequent use of.

It makes sense.

You’re already investing a good chunk of change to beautify your outdoor space… Why wouldn’t you also want to use it for entertaining?

Your patio becomes the template for a complete outdoor room… Allowing you to make the most of your property, and enjoy it to the fullest.

So when it comes to designing your patio… It all boils down to planning ahead for the features you want.

With that said, let’s take a look at some illuminating patio ideas. (Full of unique features, too!)

19 Striking Patio Ideas for Inspiration

As you begin to prime your mind for what your dream backyard could look like… It’s always good to browse some ideas, and form some foggy concepts.

Hopefully, these ideas will start bringing you closer to full-focus.

1. Charming Garden Patio Idea

What should be part and parcel with your backyard patio? Landscaping, of course!

And that’s exactly what this lovely patio has an abundance of.

Flowers and greenery are positively bursting over the edges of the garden… Creating an inviting, whimsical atmosphere we want to soak up all day long.

But let’s take a closer look at the patio.

Although we can’t see the entire thing… What’s pictured is a meandering, paver-style walkway.

This design naturally draws your vision along its path… And provides a nice complement to the landscaping features.

The patio also helps you fix your eyes on the outdoor kitchen, the true focal point of the backyard.

We wouldn’t need much convincing to fire up the grill in this space!

Love the Look and this Patio & Outdoor Kitchen?

Start dreaming up your design with our free online tool.

Design Now

2. Simple Paver Patio Idea

Photo Credit: Bethlehem Hardscapes

If you’re looking for a simple patio, with a hint of flair… You’ll love this idea, courtesy of Bethlehem Hardscapes.

The actual layout of this patio is actually quite basic.

You’ve got a square patio extending directly from the back of the house… And a wraparound walkway leading into it.

Simple.

But what we love about this patio design is the “paver-play”, if you will.

Barron’s team put a creative spin on the patio with asymmetric placement of pavers… Creating a look that holds your interest and invites curiosity.

3. Backyard Covered Patio Ideas

Here’s another paver patio, but with a bit of a twist.

While catching rays of sunshine in the summer months is a wonderful thing… There is such a thing as too much sun.

So when those lumens are getting too intense, it’s nice to have somewhere to retreat. (But still enjoy the outdoors!)

Hence, why covered patios remain an immensely popular choice.

And this outdoor patio idea is no different!

The paver patio forms a solid foundation for the space… Accompanied by a matching outdoor kitchen, and gazebo off to the side.

The gazebo has a dining table nestled underneath… Primed and ready for you and your guests to enjoy your delicious grilled meals!

And to tie it all together… Once the sun sets, mosey on over to the fire pit and chat the night away.

Patio Planning Pro Tip:

Want an outdoor kitchen and an overhead structure on your patio? If a structure is directly over your outdoor kitchen, your grill manufacturer may void the warranty for safety reasons. To avoid this issue, you can put your outdoor kitchen next to the structure instead, just like this homeowner did. (Either way, check with your grill manufacturer for details!)

4. Stunning Poolside Patio Idea

To make your patio space truly all-encompassing… Allow it to spill over into your pool area.

This patio design idea is about as perfect of an example as it gets.

It extends directly from the house, and wraps beautifully around the length of the pool.

Even the hot tub’s design is fully incorporated into the patio! The same tiles are used on top… And the natural stone siding provides a subtle contrast.

This homeowner also opted for small areas of matching gravel throughout… Adding a textural component for more interest.

Patio Planning Pro Tip:

Don’t be afraid to play with different textures on your patio. This tile patio idea also doubles as a gravel patio idea… And both textures work well together to keep the appearance of the space from falling flat.

5. Patio Tile Idea with an Outdoor Kitchen

If pavers aren’t speaking to you… You might be more enticed by the lush, elegant appearance of a tile patio.

We love the modern vibe it’s giving off in this backyard!

And despite its simplicity… This tiled patio has some distinct zones for each feature.

The pool area blends beautifully into a lounge area… And the patio then tapers off for the outdoor kitchen space.

Each zone is clearly defined by their respective functions… Yet at the same time, retaining a cohesive look.

Bravo!

6. Backyard Patio Ideas: Where Contrasting Patterns Collide

Photo Credit: Bethlehem Hardscapes

Bethlehem Hardscapes is coming in hot with another captivating patio idea!

As you acquaint yourself with the design… You’ll realize there’s actually quite a lot to unpack here.

We’ll start from the right side of the house and work our way around.

First, you’ll find some isolated tile leading you to the next section of the patio.

This section is packed with pavers of different colors… Arranged in a randomized manner.

There appears to be a coffee table in this space as well. This area could easily serve as a set-aside nook, with a private feel… As views to it are blocked off from either side of the house.

And finally, stairs drop down to the remaining section of this patio.

This area has yet another paver design in different colors… But this time, it’s geometric in pattern rather than asymmetrical.

It’s the ideal template for an outdoor kitchen and dining area, but that’s just a suggestion!

Chairs form around the outdoor fireplace, which is the focal point of this patio. You’ll also note that the patio pattern where the coffee table was placed is resumed right around the fireplace.

This effectively “bookends” the contrasting patterns… Creating unity in a space that may otherwise feel disjointed.

Patio Planning Pro Tip:

If you want to play with patterns for your patio area, repeats are your friend. Repeat a pattern or two in different sections of the backyard to maintain a sense of cohesion, and prevent the space from clashing with too many disparate patterns.

7. Outdoor Covered Patio Idea with a Rustic Feel

If you’re a fan of the rustic aesthetic… Take some time to analyze this excellent patio kitchen idea.

Of course, the first thing you’ll be drawn to is the gazebo. Paired with drawn-back curtains… When closed, this can create an intimate, private space for your guests to mingle.

This homeowner also plays with different textures, utilizing gravel for the water feature… And paver stones for the patio.

But for us… The true “wow” factor of this patio paver idea is the outdoor kitchen. (We can’t help it!)

With that rustic stacked stone terra finish and a matching fire pit… This patio is transformed into a complete outdoor living space.

You’ve got the outdoor kitchen for grilling and entertaining… The fire pit for warmth and ambiance… The gazebo and seating area for lounging…

Truly, what more could you ask for?

8. Impressive Minimalist Back Patio Idea

For many homeowners, simplicity reigns supreme.

And if you’re the no-frills type… You’ll be enchanted by this minimalist patio idea from Bethlehem Hardscapes.

Isolated tiles lead you from the side of the home and to the back… Revealing the stunning sophistication of this patio.

Irregularly sized pavers come together in a surprisingly organized way… With a darker paver clearly outlining the boundary of each section.

And while this patio hasn’t been filled with features quite yet… We see a lot of potential already.

We envision an outdoor kitchen sitting near the house… With a set of patio furniture or a dining set on the square area. Possibly even with a pergola overhead!

Point is, the sky’s the limit with this patio design.

Photo Credit: Bethlehem Hardscapes

9. Unique Patio Lighting Ideas

Let’s take things a step further with this example, by also including some patio decorating ideas.

If you plan to keep your parties rolling well into the evening… You’ll need some lighting to illuminate the way.

This idea offers some brilliant solutions, some of which are pretty unexpected!

First and foremost, you’ll notice that slick under-counter lighting on the outdoor kitchen.

Not only does it add a high-end feel to the BBQ island… It also illuminates that spectacular paver patio underneath.

As an interesting contrast, you’ll find some uplighting around the retaining wall near the house.

This results in a well-lit outdoor living room… And no reason to end the party early!

The only thing we’d suggest adding here is a touch of string lighting. Otherwise, it’s a beautiful sight to see.

Patio Planning Pro Tip:

As you iron out the details of your patio design… Make sure to think ahead about lighting and how you want to utilize it. Incorporating lighting into your landscape design in particular can create some dramatic results!

10. Gather ‘Round with this Patio Floor Idea

Bethlehem Hardscapes is coming in clutch yet again with this patio idea.

The truth is, not everyone wants a large, sprawling patio. Some of you are content with a little slice of space to spend your days al fresco.

Enter this small patio idea.

The half moon shape creates the ideal template for gathering around the fire pit… And we love the tasteful pops of greenery lining the outside of the retaining wall.

Natural stacked stone along the fire pit and retaining wall beautifully complement the slate gray patio… And it’s a space we’d have no problem cozying up to. (With a hot mug of cocoa in hand!)

Photo Credit: Bethlehem Hardscapes

11. Patio Ideas for Backyards with a Dining Area

Want to focus on outdoor dining?

Well, you’re in for a treat with this idea! Because in this space… It’s all about creating a great dining experience.

And before we get too in the weeds on all this outdoor furniture, let’s say a word or two on the patio itself.

This minimalist patio design makes fantastic use of porcelain tile. A simple, rectangular layout with a border is all that’s needed to make this space inviting.

Zooming out a bit, you’ll notice how well this patio is optimized for entertaining.

There’s a lovely seating area off to the side, with comfy chairs surrounding a fire pit table.

The dining table offers a full 8 seats… Plenty of space for a full family-style dinner!

As for the outdoor kitchen, where do we start?

The bright stacked stone finish is a stunning complement to the patio… And even offers bar seating, for yet more dining capacity.

It’s all you need for entertaining the perfect evening… Right in your backyard.

12. Stone Patio Idea with a Twist

Chalk up another one for Bethlehem Hardscapes!

This is another fire pit patio idea… But with a little more flair.

You’ve got pavers filling in the center and the border… With natural-looking stone forming a lovely band around the patio.

Further, the asymmetrical shape adds more interest to the space.

There’s a nice little coffee table to enjoy some tableside chats al fresco as well.

All this space needs is some potted plants or landscaping to bring it all together.

Photo Credit: Bethlehem Hardscapes

13. California Modern Patio Idea

Whether you live in California, or simply want to emulate the style… You’ll be over the moon with this patio idea!

You’ve got a concrete patio with a modern, matte finish… Accentuated by paver tiles lining the pool.

And with a matching modern concrete outdoor kitchen, to boot.

The eye is drawn upward with the metal, slatted pergola… And the wooden planters add a much needed natural element to break up the minimalism.

In our minds, this is a modern patio done right.

Love the Look of this Patio & Outdoor Kitchen?

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14. Poolside Patio with Chevron Steps

If you’re on the hunt for a complete backyard makeover… This patio idea from Bethlehem Hardscapes is one that commands your attention!

Of course, the pool is taking center stage. Being thoughtfully designed with multi-bordered pavers… We nearly couldn’t resist taking a dip.

Also take a peek at that upper level patio in the top right of the photo. With a remarkable chevron pattern… This space is ripe for more features! (Quite possibly an outdoor kitchen?)

We don’t know about you… But we’d be feeling like kings and queens looking at this backyard from the deck.

Photo Credit: Bethlehem Hardscapes

15. Jaw-Dropping Brick Patio Idea

Brick patios aren’t just relegated to the rustic realm.

This patio idea proves that brick has solid footing with modern aesthetics as well.

In this example, the brick is laid in a chevron arrangement… And perfectly outlines the outdoor kitchen area.

The muted tones of the brick drives more attention to that sprawling, modern concrete BBQ island.

We simply can’t stop talking about it!

But we’ll put a lid on all the outdoor kitchen talk for a moment.

Aside from the brick… This patio makes use of isolated concrete areas with grass in between, further playing with geometry.

And that greenery in the back truly brings all the components of this space together.

All we can say is… Well done!

Patio Planning Pro Tip:

Don’t shy away from traditionally rustic materials if you’re trying to craft a modern look. Any material can be made modern. What’s old is new again, right? This example is no exception. The use of distressed, muted brick solidly brings this space into the modern aesthetic.

16. Small Backyard Patio Idea if You’re Short on Space

Don’t have a ton of square footage to work with?

No need to fret. Your dreams of a gorgeous outdoor patio don’t have to be abandoned.

This patio idea from Bethlehem Hardscapes far and away proves our point!

Although this backyard has a teeny-tiny footprint… This patio is absolutely packed with personality.

The cubed pattern gives off an almost Art Deco feel… And is a complete show-stopper.

It’s so much of a show stopper, we wouldn’t dare cover it up with tons of features!

Point is, a small backyard need not be a hindrance to your outdoor living dreams. With the proper design, you can just about have it all.

Photo Credit: Bethlehem Hardscapes

17. Flagstone Patio Ideas with an Outdoor Kitchen

While not as popular as they may have been in the past… Flagstone patios are still a great way to bring a natural, earthen feel to your backyard.

And in this example, the flagstone patio is executed with a timeless feel.

It’s also the ideal platform for this reclaimed brick outdoor kitchen! Although they’re different rustic materials… Both work well together to create a cohesive look.

We’d also be remiss not to mention the willow tree… Bringing in that easy, breezy, peaceful atmosphere to the space.

18. Patio Flooring Ideas with a Pool

We’ve gone through a ton of patio ideas with pavers… But we’re not stopping now!

This is our last (but certainly not least) patio idea from Bethlehem Hardscapes.

Similar to idea #14, you’ll see a distinct paver outline surrounding the pool.

Being the focal point of the space… This design feature effectively highlights the pool.

And rather than keeping this space one-note with the solid gray pavers… Barron’s team opted to play with shades and geometry near the house.

Not only does this add visual interest… It doubles as creating a separate zone for the dining table.

With some lounge chairs by the pool… We’d have no qualms about soaking up the sun in this backyard.

Photo Credit: Bethlehem Hardscapes

19. Maximize Your Space with This Patio Idea

For our final patio idea of the day… We’re wrapping up with an excellent example of how to maximize your space.

Each section of the patio has a dedicated zone, yet they mesh together seamlessly.

The outdoor kitchen and bar has plenty of space… And forms a natural divider to the seating area straight behind it. (We love the throw pillows for a cozy feel!)

And just mere steps away, there’s a dining table for enjoying meals in the fresh air.

All in all, this checks all the boxes for an excellent patio area.

Now that we’ve whetted your appetite for the possibilities… Let’s get you excited for yet another aspect of your future backyard makeover.

Complete Your Patio Project with This DIY Backyard Upgrade

As visions of your future backyard swirl in your mind… We’d like to insert another feature into your vision.

An outdoor kitchen.

Many of the patio ideas you’ve seen today incorporate a BBQ island into their backyard design… And for good reason.

This single feature completely transforms your outdoor living space.

An outdoor kitchen becomes the hub where people gather… Break bread together… And create memories that last a lifetime.

It’s the motivator to spend time with your loved ones, and enjoy the outdoors while you’re at it.

But that’s just scratching the surface of what an outdoor kitchen can provide.

For now, we’ll leave you to dreaming.

And if you’re feeling inspired to draft up an outdoor kitchen design for your future patio… We’ve got the perfect tool to start putting a picture to your vision.

Until then, keep on keepin’ on with planning… And if you’re sold on an outdoor kitchen in the future, we’d love to work with you.

Let’s Chat about Your Future Backyard

Schedule a call with an outdoor kitchen Design Expert to start moving toward your dream backyard.

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Twin Eagles Pellet Grill: Expert Review of 9 Important Features

James King — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 12:36:33 +0000

You’re in the market for a new pellet smoker… But not just any old brand will do.

You’re after only the best of the best for your backyard.

Hence, why the Twin Eagles pellet grill has crossed your path.

This pellet grill is certainly what we’d call “upper crust!” (And of course, it has the hefty price tag to prove it.)

But before you go all in… Is the Twin Eagles wood fired pellet grill really worth dishing out all that dough?

Today, that’s what we aim to find out.

We’ll apply our in-depth knowledge of outdoor kitchen appliances — and consult with a real-life Twin Eagles pellet grill owner — to see just what makes this high end smoker sing.

Let’s dive in.

Quick Links:

Twin Eagles Grills Company Overview
Twin Eagles Pellet Grill & Smoker Selection
Addressing The Hefty Twin Eagles Pellet Grill Price Tag
In-Depth Twin Eagles Pellet Grill Review
Is The Twin Eagles Pellet Grill Worth It?
A More Practical Way To Get Your Pellet Grill (And Outdoor Kitchen, Too)

Twin Eagles Grills Company Overview

If you’re not familiar with Twin Eagles… Allow us to catch you up to speed.

Prize-winning engineer Dante Cantal founded Twin Eagles Grills in 1999. Today, the brand is owned by Dometic, a corporation specializing in mobile living solutions.

The California-based company is composed of highly skilled craftspeople who manufacture, test, and refine their products right here in the USA.

Twin Eagles is best known for their luxurious built-in gas grills, which they’ve been perfecting since 2006. (They also offer griddles, side burners, refrigeration, patio heaters and a handful of other high-brow, high-spec outdoor kitchen components.)

In 2018, they decided to expand their selection even further with the Twin Eagles pellet grill.

But as you’ll soon find out… This isn’t your run-of-the-mill pellet smoker.

Living up to their reputation for greatness, Twin Eagles set out to produce a prime pellet grill that would be a cut above competitor brands.

And of course, that’s what’s on the docket today.

Want to bring your idea to life?

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Twin Eagles Pellet Grill & Smoker Selection

Twin Eagles Built-In Pellet Grill (TEPGB36)

Freestanding Twin Eagles Pellet Grill (TEPG36)

This header may actually be a bit misleading… Seeing as Twin Eagles doesn’t really offer a selection of pellet grills.

Instead, they have just one single 36” pellet grill model.

This is available in either a built-in or freestanding configuration.

Of course, the built-in model is designed for installation in an outdoor kitchen cutout.

The freestanding model is simply the built-in model on a rolling grill base. (The cart comes with stainless steel side shelves, a self-latching pellet storage drawer, and two soft-close access doors.)

As of right now, it’s unclear if Twin Eagles has any future plans to broaden their pellet grill selection.

But for the time being, let’s see what makes the Twin Eagles 36” pellet grill tick.

Addressing The Hefty Twin Eagles Pellet Grill Price Tag

We don’t usually address price until the end of our product reviews.

But for the Twin Eagles pellet grill, we’re switching things up.

Why?

Because cost is a major point of contention surrounding this particular grill.

Twin Eagles is far and away the priciest pellet grill option on the market.

Some have even referred to the Twin Eagles pellet grill as the “Rolex” of the BBQ scene.

So, exactly how much will it set you back?

Currently, online retailers have the built-in grill listed at approximately $9,000… And the freestanding pellet grill at about $11,000.

Adding on the optional integrated rotisserie system will tag another $700 onto the total price.

It goes without saying… These aren’t small sums. (Not by a long shot!)

For some perspective… Memphis Grills is the next most expensive pellet grill option available, with prices averaging between $4,000 and $6,000.

And the majority of other pellet smoker brands hover around the $1,000 to $3,000 mark.

Point is, before you make this hefty investment… You’ll want to be 110% certain that this grill is actually worth the wages.

So to help you see if the Twin Eagles pellet grill is for you… Let’s get down to the brass tacks.

In-Depth Twin Eagles Pellet Grill Review

To get you better acquainted with the Twin Eagles pellet grill… We enlisted the help of RTA’s very own Jason Bunch.

Not only is Jason an expert on outdoor kitchen appliances… But he’s also been a proud owner of the built-in Twin Eagles pellet grill going on three years.

So with his firsthand experience to guide us… We’ll cover all the key features, and see if this smoker really lives up to that price tag.

Wi-Fi Enabled, Trouble-Free Touch Screen Control

Pellet grills are renowned for their astounding ease of use… And the Twin Eagles pellet grill delivers splendidly on this front.

The large, weatherproof, touchscreen LCD control panel allows you to manually set temperatures.

To make your cooking experience even easier, you can also select from several preprogrammed food items… And set your desired levels of doneness in seconds.

Three individual temperature probes come standard with the Twin Eagles pellet grill… Which’ll let you keep tabs on the internal temps of multiple different foods at a time.

The best part? You can do all of this from anywhere. The golf course, the top of a mountain, even your bed… Yup, anywhere.

A user-friendly app (compatible with Apple and Android) makes this possible. It allows you to monitor and manage temperatures from your mobile device, no matter where you are.

To avoid any confusion, the app interface is an exact replica of the manual touch screen control panel.

Jason confirms for us that the digital touch screen is functional, “works great” and is “easy to change modes and adjust temperatures.”

As for the WiFi app, he says, “I use the app on every cook, and it’s really nice to be able to track/check temps from afar. It works fine and looks good.”

He only had one gripe about the controls in the three years he’s had the grill: “I did have a goofy problem a few weeks ago where Twin Eagles was having some sort of issue with their servers, and I couldn’t connect to the app,” he confesses.

But all in all, this seems like the exception and not the rule… And for the most part, the Twin Eagles mobile and manual controls shouldn’t give you any trouble.

Impressive Range of Cooking Temperatures

Moving right along… What kind of cooking power is the Twin Eagles pellet grill capable of?

Yet again, Twin Eagles doesn’t hold anything back.

You can set your grill as low as 140 degrees for low and slow smokes… Or as high as 725 degrees for hot and fast grilling. (Direct sear inserts crank up the heat even higher… But we’ll circle back to those later on.)

Considering the average pellet grill tops out at 500 degrees… We really can’t complain.

Thanks to this ultra-wide temp range, the Twin Eagles pellet grill will enable astounding cooking versatility.

For Jason, this incredible versatility is, in fact, his favorite thing about owning the grill.

“Low and slow, hot and fast, or anywhere in between,” he says, the Twin Eagles pellet grill wears many hats when it comes to outdoor cooking… Which is what we’d expect from a wood fired pellet smoker of this caliber.

Temperature Precision

On top of a wide temperature range… Jason was also singing the praises for “a complete lack of temperature fluctuation.”

He says, “Whether I’m smoking something at 225, or grilling chicken thighs at 550-600, once the grill gets to its target temp, it does not vary a single degree.”

This is all thanks to a variable speed fan… Which works wonders when it comes to temperature precision and consistency.

And ultimately, this outstanding accuracy gives the Twin Eagles pellet grill another leg up over the competition.

Unlike many lower-end pellet grills, which can only be set in increments of 5-10 degrees (or more)… The Twin Eagles pellet grill will allow you to set your desired temperature down to the very degree.

And you won’t have to hover over your grill during those longer cooks… Because it’ll maintain those extremely accurate temperatures for you.

Pretty convenient, right?

Looking At The Front Load Hopper

Now, let’s take a closer look at Twin Eagles’ front load hopper.

With a 13 pound capacity, it can hold a decent amount of fuel to get you through one long or multiple shorter cooks.

It’s easy to pull out and keep track of your pellet level… And refueling should be an all-around painless process.

But really, this is a pretty standard hopper design. There’s nothing super special here.

And we’ve got to say… Many less expensive brands have taken much more creative liberty with their hoppers.

Take Traeger smokers, for instance. These grills boast pellet view windows, pellet sensors, and pellet dump features… And it would’ve been nice to see Twin Eagles factor some of these conveniences into their own design.

That said, Twin Eagles may not have jumped through any hoops when designing their pellet hopper… But it certainly isn’t going to hinder your cooking experience.

The Perfect Pellet Grill Station

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The Maintenance Process: Is Cleanup Easy?

Now, let’s address everyone’s not-so-favorite part of the grilling process… The cleanup.

We won’t lie… Cleaning pellet grills can be a huge headache.

Not only do you have grease and drippings to deal with… But cooking with wood pellets also leaves behind a lot of ash.

The good news? Twin Eagles has taken some steps to make the cleanup process less of a time-suck.

There are two drip trays to catch ash and grease. Both trays are designed to hold removable, disposable pans that’ll need to be swapped out from time to time.

But aside from the double drip trays… The cleaning process is pretty much as you’d expect.

Here’s what Jason’s routine maintenance process looks like:

“I run the grill hot for 10 minutes or so after every cook, then let the cooldown cycle run as that helps blow ash out of the firepot.”

He continues, “About every three cooks, or if I’ve just ran a long smoke for a pork butt, brisket, etc.; I’ll pull out the grates, scrape the tray below with a plastic putty knife, then pull that as well so I can vacuum up all the ash buildup and burnt food bits from inside of the grill and firebox.”

“If you’re coming from a gas grill, cleaning up the ash is the only new thing you really need to add to your routine,” Jason points out.

So there you have it.

The cleanup isn’t the easiest thing in the world… But it shouldn’t take too much effort to maintain your grill.

Other Bells & Whistles

We can’t talk about the Twin Eagles pellet grill without giving some attention to all the add-ons.

Arguably, this is where this pellet smoker really shines.

So, what comes standard with your purchase?

Extra-Thick Vaporizer Plate: Best suited for low and slow smoking… This add-on will turn drippings into flavorful smoke and prevent flare-ups.
Lump Wood or Charcoal Direct Heat Insert: This’ll allow you to sear proteins at temperatures well over 1,000 degrees… And get smokier flavors while you’re at it.
Direct Sear Briquette Tray: These ceramic briquettes will give you access to direct, radiant heat for a more traditional grilling experience… And can bring max temps up to 1,000 degrees.
Hanger Hooks: Each Twin Eagles pellet grill comes standard with three adjustable hooks… Perfect for evenly cooked, smoky foods.
Smoke Plus Feature: Exactly as it sounds, this’ll take the smokiness up a notch. According to Jason, he’ll use this feature if he “wants a little more smoke flavor.” He says “It’s not a drastic difference, but does increase the smoke flavor a bit.”
Heavy Duty Rotisserie System: For an additional cost, you can add an integrated rotisserie system. This heavy duty chain-driven motor has a 100 pound capacity and even rotation for consistent cooks.
Internal Halogen Lighting: For grilling after the sun goes down… This’ll improve nighttime visibility.

As you can see… You get A LOT of extras with the Twin Eagles pellet grill. This can’t be said for the majority of pellet grill models on the market.

That heightened price ticket is probably starting to make a bit more sense. As Jason will tell you, Twin Eagles truly “pulled out all the stops, and cut zero corners…” and the lengthy list of accessories only goes to show it.

The Luxury Look

Features and functionality are all well and good…

But we can’t forget about looks.

When buying any appliance at this price range… The aesthetics are equally as important as the add-ons and cooking power.

And chances are, your Twin Eagles grill is going to be front and center in a luxury outdoor space… Which means it must look the part.

Across their entire appliance selection, Twin Eagles boasts some unique design details.

Just one look at the exterior, and you can tell that these grills exude elegance.

More specifically, Twin Eagles employs seamless welds and high-polished accents to give their pellet grills an undeniably upscale look.

And this careful craftsmanship also lends itself to top-tier construction.

High Quality Construction

An elegant finish is just one side of the coin.

Twin Eagles pellet grills don’t only look beautiful… They’re also built to last.

As Jason will tell you… After owning his Twin Eagles grill for nearly three years, “it still looks basically new.”

And it’s clear to see why that is.

Twin Eagles uses 304 stainless steel both inside and out… From the double walled grill hood, to the braided gasket for maximum heat retention, to the interior cooking grates and accessories.

This rust- and corrosion-resistant material will endure tarnishing, dulling, and won’t be easily damaged by the outdoor elements over time.

Again, high quality construction places Twin Eagles above many other lower priced pellet grill brands… Many of which cut corners with cheaper materials that rust and corrode quickly. (We’re looking at you, 430 stainless steel.)

All that said, we’d still suggest spending a bit extra on a grill cover for that extra layer of protection. It is a $10,000 grill, after all… Why take any chances?

The Twin Eagles Pellet Grill Warranty

Finally, let’s address the warranty.

If you’re going to spend THIS much money on your pellet grill… You’ll want to have complete confidence that it’s actually covered if something were to go wrong.

So, what’s the warranty for the Twin Eagles pellet grill looking like?

Twin Eagles claims that the stainless steel components are all covered for a lifetime. We love to see it.

However, the cooking grates, briquette tray, charcoal tray, vaporizer plate, burner pot, and drip trays are NOT included in this lifetime of coverage, despite being stainless steel. These only get a five year warranty.

All other grill components are covered for just two years. Presumably, this includes the electrical components that the pellet grill relies on to function (fans, wiring, digital controls, etc.).

For the price you’ll pay, we’d ideally like to see longer warranties across the board.

But that said, it’s still a definite step up when compared to most other pellet grill manufacturers. (Memphis pellet grills only get seven years of coverage… And Traeger only offers a ten year warranty for their pricy Timberline pellet smoker.)

So with all that… What’s the final ruling?

Is The Twin Eagles Pellet Grill Worth It?

In short, yes. The Twin Eagles pellet grill is worth it… But only if you have the funds for it.

As Jason says, “For someone that wants the absolute best pellet grill available to go along with the rest of a very high end project, then it’s definitely worth it.”

And now, you can see why. There’s no denying that the Twin Eagles grill is chock full of convenient features. And the stunning aesthetic gets bonus points.

But we can’t just leave it there.

The truth is, most grillers simply aren’t willing to spend $10,000 on just one outdoor cooking appliance.

The lack of real-life customer reviews goes to show that the Twin Eagles pellet grills aren’t exactly flying off the shelf… And even Jason admitted that he was lucky enough to get his own smoker at a “steep discount.”

Again, if you have the money… You really can’t go wrong. (And your guests will thank you for it.)

But as Jason chimes in, “Really do your research and see how the grill would fit into the entire project. What are you sacrificing elsewhere to fit this grill into your budget? If money is no object, then definitely go for it.”

But for the average homeowner… It’s just not practical to go all in on a pellet grill alone.

With the money you’d spend on the Twin Eagles pellet grill… You could be investing in multiple different outdoor appliances, as well. (And even a full outdoor kitchen!)

To show you what we mean… We’ll share a great alternative.

A More Practical Way To Get Your Pellet Grill (And Outdoor Kitchen, Too)

If you can’t justify spending $10,000 or more on a pellet grill… You’re not alone.

But don’t be discouraged. We have an astounding alternative that’s a lot easier on the wallet.

Allow us to introduce you to the 36” Coyote pellet grill. (Want something smaller? Coyote also offers a compact 28” model.)

Though lacking some of the bells and whistles of the Twin Eagles pellet grill… The Coyote pellet grill isn’t far behind when it comes to performance, and quality is on par.

Here’s what you can expect:

Full 304 stainless steel construction
A temperature range between 175-700 degrees
Precise temp control (thanks to a dual fan convection system)
A lifetime warranty
A front load 15 pound hopper (with Smart Drop pellet feed)
Digital touch control
Three temperature probes
A Versa-Rack which gives you multiple cooking surfaces
Interior grill lighting
A smoke and sear grate
A drip tray for convenient cleanup

Jason puts in a positive word for Coyote: “The Coyote unit is an absolute beast as well. Most of the internal parts look very similar to the Twin, performance is on par, it looks great, and you even get some features the Twin lacks.”

And you get all of this… For a fraction of the price. Currently, the Coyote pellet grill costs between $3,249.00 – $4,729.00.

“The only thing you’re really lacking is the WiFi app, but a nice Meater Pro or similar Bluetooth meat probe gives you back very similar functionality,” Jason adds. This’ll tack an extra hundred or so dollars onto your total.

Sounds like a pretty sweet deal, already… But what if we told you it gets even sweeter?

Here at RTA Outdoor Living, we’ve partnered with Coyote for our outdoor kitchen appliances… Which means it’s easier than ever to incorporate your pellet grill in a custom BBQ island design. (Check out our online design tool to see the possibilities! Spoiler alert, they’re practically endless.)

And if you’re after a quick solution… You can currently get a full pellet grill island complete with countertops, storage, and refrigeration for the same price as the Twin Eagles smoker.

No corners are cut, either. Our composite concrete kitchen panels are covered under a limited lifetime warranty… Just like your Coyote pellet grill.

That equates to year after year of convenient outdoor cooking… For the same price as just one Twin Eagles pellet grill.

If you want to learn more about Coyote and RTA… Additional helpful resources are just a click away.

And if you still have any questions, we’re here to answer them.

Need Help With Your Plans?

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FAQ

Where are Twin Eagles Grills Made?

All Twin Eagles grills are designed, developed, and handcrafted in the USA.

More specifically, Twin Eagles production takes place in a facility in Cerritos, California.

What are the Benefits of the Twin Eagles Pellet Grill?

If you have the budget to buy it… The Twin Eagles pellet grill comes with plenty of benefits.

It’s easy to use, with a large touch screen, mobile app, and extremely precise temperature control.

It’s super versatile, with a wide temperature range, included inserts for searing, and the option to add a rotisserie burner.

It looks beautiful, with seamless welded construction… And it’s made with high quality 304 stainless steel throughout.

12 Top Safety Considerations For Outdoor Appliances

James King — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 18:11:28 +0000

When you’re searing up a storm on your gas grill, crafting cheesy pies in an outdoor pizza oven, or concocting savory sauces on your side burner… Outdoor cooking safety is probably the last thing on your mind.

After all, barbecuing is all about having fun, right? What could possibly go wrong?

Well, without the proper precautions… A lot.

Each year, 22,155 individuals require emergency care due to grilling-related injuries…

Plus, outdoor cooking is the cause of approximately 10,600 annual home fires.

These shocking stats from the National Fire Protection Association show that safety considerations for outdoor appliances should never be shrugged off.

And to keep your own BBQ parties secure… Brushing up on outdoor cooking safety measures is key.

So today, we’ll share with you the essential safety precautions for using your outdoor cooking appliances.

You can’t have the perfect BBQ without prioritizing safety… So let’s get straight to it.

Quick Links:

BBQ Safety 101: 5 Basic Outdoor Grilling Safety Tips
Location, Location, Location: 5 Ways Appliance Placement Can Pose Safety Hazards
2 Must-Read Electrical Appliance Safety Measures

5 Basic Outdoor Grilling Safety Tips

If you’re not caught up on the BBQ safety basics… A day spent outdoor grilling can quickly take a turn for the worse.

So whether you’re firing up your trusty old grill or working with a different outdoor cooking appliance altogether… The following concepts should be applied to ensure your grilling season is safe and sound.

1. Use The Right Tools (And Good Sense) To Avoid Burns

Outdoor cooking over an open flame needs to be done with care.

Obvious as this may seem… Good sense and grilling don’t always go hand in hand, and at the end of the day, accidents happen.

Stats from the National Fire Protection Association prove this point.

Between 2017 and 2021, thermal burns made up nearly half of all annual outdoor grilling injuries. (That’s roughly 10,342 burn cases per year.)

Though this number may be substantial, this safety hazard is actually quite a simple one to curb.

First and foremost, always employ good old-fashioned common sense. Never touch a grill bare-handed unless you’re 110% certain that it’s powered off and cool.

Additionally, ensure that you have the right utensils for outdoor cooking.

The majority of burns occur due to accidental contact with scorching cooking surfaces or splatters from hot grease… And short-handled utensils are often to blame for these incidents.

That’s why specialized outdoor cooking utensils have long handles and heat-resistant grips.

With these, your hands should never even come close to the scalding splatters or searing grill grates, thereby significantly reducing personal burn risks. (For good measure, pair long-handled utensils with heat-resistant cooking gloves.)

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2. Follow Outdoor Grilling Dress Code

Loose clothing is another common culprit for outdoor cooking injury.

So naturally, the best way to avoid accidentally setting yourself aflame while grilling is to leave any loose clothing in the closet.

Anything with hanging shirt tails, frills, long billowy sleeves, or dangling strings won’t be a welcome guest at your grill station… As these can easily come in contact with scorching surfaces or open flames and catch fire.

And seeing as most homeowner’s everyday attire isn’t designed to be flame retardant… It’s especially crucial that you don’t skim past this safety tip.

To avoid any potential catastrophes… Opt for simple, short sleeved, or sleeveless clothes before operating outdoor cooking appliances.

Or, don an apron to keep loose clothing neatly tucked in and snug to your body.

And even with the right dress code, always stay vigilant while cooking outdoors, and be wary that you don’t brush against hot surfaces while cooking.

3. Always Keep An Eye On Your Hot Grill To Avoid Accidents

Protecting yourself from grill burns is one thing… But it’s just as crucial to safeguard those around your grill, especially when it comes to the little ones in your life.

Stats from the NFPA reveal that children under five account for 2,820 contact-type burns per year… So it’s safe to say they should be kept well away from your outdoor cooking area if you’re not around to supervise.

Setting burn hazards aside… You only have so much control over your outdoor appliances and the surrounding environment.

Even if you think everything will be a-okay if you step away… Flare-ups and other unexpected events can still cause a fiery disaster to spark in your outdoor cooking appliances.

And if you’re not in the vicinity… You won’t be able to cut these incidents off at the head, giving fire time to spread to surrounding areas.

So don’t let this safety concern slip your mind… And always stick around during your grilling sessions.

4. Stay On Top Of Safety With Routine Maintenance

Staying on top of routine cleaning is another essential BBQ safety tip.

Improper appliance maintenance can set the stage for malfunctions and grease fires… Neither of which bode well for your personal safety.

Sure, grill cleaning can be a pain… But it’s a small price to pay for your continued wellbeing.

And conducting routine maintenance is the most effective way to prevent any potential safety hazards from sparking in your outdoor appliances.

At the very least, your cooking surfaces and drip trays need to be scrubbed clear of grease and food buildup after each and every use (no ifs, ands, or buts).

This simple task will prevent grease fires from igniting, keep your appliances looking spic and span… And it’ll also allow you to confirm that everything is in proper working order.

During routine cleans, you should keep an eye out for any damaged components or gas leaks (if applicable)… So you can address potential safety hazards and cut off dire consequences before they have a chance to rear their ugly head.

A Quick Note On Grill Cleaning: Avoid using grill brushes with wire bristles for routine grill cleaning. Stray bristles have a tendency to stick to cooking surfaces and can cause severe personal injury if accidentally ingested.

5. Practice Fire Safety Procedures

Even if you practice outdoor grilling safety to a tee… Accidents still happen.

Unfortunately, they’re an unavoidable part of life!

Grease fires are the most common type of grilling related accident… So it’s crucial that you know how to cut these off at the head. (Even if you’re diligent with routine cleaning… You’ll still want to take heed of this know-how!)

First things first, if a grease fire sparks, never be tempted to grab your spray bottle or garden hose. Drenching a grease fire in water will only exacerbate the flames.

Instead, shut off the heat source (if safe to do so), and immediately take action to suffocate the flames. (Cookware covers, sheet pans, baking soda, and class K fire extinguishers can be used to do this.)

Ideally, taking these steps will allow you to smother fire hazards before they get out of control.

But if the issue is too big to deal with… Have your local fire department on speed dial to quickly take care of the issue. (Never attempt to put serious fires out yourself!)

Location, Location, Location: 5 Ways Appliance Placement Can Pose Safety Hazards

While following basic BBQ safety tips is crucial to ensure problem-free outdoor cooking… The above measures aren’t the only thing to keep in mind each grilling season.

Though this safety concern is often overlooked… Carelessly placed outdoor cooking appliances are an open invitation to property damage, home fires, and severe personal injury.

Let’s elaborate, shall we?

1. Keep Your Appliances Away From High-Traffic Areas

It’s essential that your outdoor cooking appliances are placed away from high-traffic areas.

Walkways, paths, or other oft-frequented spots in your backyard are, quite frankly, the worst possible choice for placing your appliances!

Why?

It increases the likelihood of guests bumping into a hot grill and getting burnt… Accidentally knocking your cooking appliances over and causing fire spread… Or stumbling into and causing damage to the unit that may lead to malfunctions down the line.

If you happen to have a grill station with built-in cooking appliances… The same concept holds true.

Your outdoor kitchen should be placed away from congested areas…

Plus, your built-in cooking appliances need to be a safe distance from other workspaces where your hands frequently venture.

To reduce the risk of skin-to-grill contact, think of your outdoor kitchen as having two zones: “hot” and “cold.”

The “hot zone” will be host to your built-in grill and other scorching cooking appliances… While the “cold zone” will feature ample space for food prep and other tasks, well away from the heat.

The key takeaway? Don’t place your cooking appliances smack dab in the middle of the action. Doing so will effectively decrease the likelihood of burns, fire, and other potential safety hazards.

2. Flat, Level Surfaces Are A Must For Outdoor Cooking Safety

Not only should your outdoor appliances be situated just so… You also need to take into account the surface on which they will reside.

Namely, your outdoor cooking appliances should always stand on even and level footing… No exceptions.

This will prevent tipping, falling, or rolling away during use.

If the ground beneath your appliance isn’t perfectly even… It may topple over, posing safety threats to small children or pets in the area.

Not to mention… You’re upping your own chance for some seriously bruised and burnt toes.

And if your grill tips or rolls away when ignited… This could lead to fire spreading to the surrounding area.

The best way to prevent these potential disasters is to place your appliances on flat, level patios or well-supported decks.

And if you have an outdoor kitchen… This advice applies for you, as well.

Only place full grill islands on well-supported, level surfaces to prevent structural instability, damaged decks, or toppling kitchen islands.

If you do this… A well-made outdoor kitchen will provide exceptionally stable housing for outdoor cooking appliances, eliminating any risk of rolling, tipping, or toppling grills.

3. Clearance From Combustible Materials Is Crucial

Alright, let’s take a moment to recap.

Your outdoor cooking appliances should be safely positioned on a flat, level surface…

And said surface should be well away from foot traffic.

Next, you need to make sure that your outdoor cooking appliances have ample clearance from any combustible materials.

If not, the risk of grill fire spreading to your property is significantly increased.

To avoid large-scale fire spread… Never place your hot cooking appliances directly against or in close proximity to walls or other combustible structures. (And never integrate built-in appliances into a wooden outdoor kitchen!)

This includes overhead roof structures, deck rails, trees, and dry brush… As well as the exterior wall of your home.

Not only will doing this increase the risk of fire spread… But it’ll also lead to blocked appliance vents. (We’ll go into more detail on the dangers of blocked vents shortly!)

Additionally, always consult local fire codes before constructing a roof structure over your outdoor cooking area…

And thoroughly comb through appliance manuals to identify clearance recommendations from combustible structures.

It’s crucial to adhere to these guidelines… And failing to do so can void your warranty, cause property damage, and — most importantly — compromise your safety.

4. Only Grill In Well-Ventilated Outdoor Areas

It might seem like common sense… But this safety concern is worth mentioning nonetheless.

Outdoor cooking appliances are meant only for outdoor spaces.

Obviously… Right?

Well, for those with indoor-outdoor spaces like Florida or California rooms, this consideration isn’t always as cut and dry.

You may be tempted to place your outdoor cooking appliances in these semi-closed off areas… And this is where potential safety hazards come about.

Though it may be fine to place outdoor appliances in an indoor-outdoor living space… It’s crucial to ensure that said space has ample open-air access, proper ventilation, and sufficient clearance from combustible materials before you do.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a real concern when using a gas grill in poorly ventilated areas… And the consequences can leave you seriously sick.

So while it may seem obvious… Don’t overlook the importance of sufficient ventilation (especially when cooking with propane or natural gas).

5. Don’t Block Grill Vents To Avoid These Bitter Consequences

Last but certainly not least… Always be sure that vents on your outdoor cooking appliances remain open and unobstructed.

Vents play a critical role for many outdoor grills and appliances… Allowing excess heat or gas buildup to safely exit the unit. (The same can be said for outdoor kitchen vents!)

When grill vents are blocked… It can lead to overheating, elevated gas pressure, and an increased potential for fire and explosion.

To prevent these hazards… Avoid placing your cooking appliances flush against walls or surfaces that might obstruct the vents.

What’s more… You should never attempt to integrate a freestanding appliance into an outdoor kitchen structure.

Built-in appliances are designed to vent in enclosed spaces… But freestanding appliances? Not so much.

If you attempt to convert freestanding appliances for built-in use, you’ll almost surely wind up with blocked grill vents… And we’ve already told you why this is less-than-ideal.

Now, onto a few final safety measures…

2 Must-Read Electrical Appliance Safety Measures

Unfortunately, electrical hazards account for nearly 4,000 injuries and 400 lost lives each and every year.

So for those with electrical outdoor appliances like pellet grills, refrigerators, ice makers, electric grills, or otherwise… Pay close attention to the following electrical safety tips.

(Note: Certain gas and charcoal grills use electrical components like lighting and rotisserie, so take heed of the following if this applies to you.)

1. Only Use Electrical Components Rated For Outdoor Use

Practicing electrical safety indoors is one thing… But electrical components outdoors are an entirely different beast.

Every electrical element in your outdoor cooking area — whether it be an appliance, wire, or outlet — will be exposed to harsh elements, including rain, extreme temperatures, or even snow and ice.

Prolonged exposure to these adverse elements can degrade electrical components over time.

And damaged components won’t only hamper appliance functionality… But they’ll also pose serious safety hazards in the form of electrocution or electrical fires.

To best protect yourself… Be sure to only use outdoor rated electrical appliances, outlets, and wiring.

Outdoor rated electrical appliances will have properly insulated wires to protect from heat, cold, and water exposure…

And it goes without saying, but these will be safer to use outside than anything not rated for outdoor use.

Further, you should only plug electrical appliances into ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets, which will cut power and reduce the risk of electrical shock if water does make its way into the wires.

And for good measure, keep up with cable management, cover all wires, and never use extension cords or power strips to plug in electrical appliances… As you can overload your circuit breaker and pose safety risks.

Finally, don’t fire up electrical appliances during a rainstorm… We don’t have to tell you that electricity and water don’t mix!

2. Conduct Routine Check-Ins On Electrical Appliances

Even if your electrical appliances, wires, and plugs are rated for outdoor use… This doesn’t give you a free pass for negligence.

As we’ve stated before… Your control over the outdoor environment is limited. Even if you’ve taken all the necessary precautions, accidents still occur. (If we’re sounding like a broken record, it’s for good reason!)

So to further ensure electrical safety, it’ll be crucial to regularly inspect all electric appliances and hookups in your outdoor cooking area.

This’ll allow you to catch and remedy damaged or frayed wires early… Ensure everything is in proper working order… And prevent appliance malfunctions, accidental electrocution, and decrease the chance of electrical fires down the line.

And when the grilling season comes to a close… Unplug and store electrical appliances in a dry space or cover built-in units with weather resistant covers to prevent water damage during the off-season, and keep your outdoor cooking components safe to use for next year.

Congrats On Completing BBQ Safety 101... Now What?

At this point, you’ve seen what’s at stake each and every time you use your outdoor cooking appliances…

And now, you have a better idea of what needs to be done to keep things secure.

In conclusion, ensuring safe use of outdoor appliances is straightforward… And by sticking to the tips in this article, you’ll have a better foundation to breathe easy at your BBQ parties.

Before we let you get back to grilling… We commend you for taking outdoor cooking safety seriously.

And if at any point you decide to upgrade your outdoor cooking area to an all-inclusive summer kitchen setup… We encourage you to click through our Learning Hub and other safety resources to see why our custom-made RTA outdoor kitchens are a secure solution.

To give you a taste for what you’ll find…

Each of our islands boasts non-combustible materials… Sufficient ventilation… And comes equipped with outdoor-rated built-in appliances and accessories from Coyote Outdoor Living.

So when you’re ready to take the next steps, we’re just a few clicks away.

And until then… Happy grilling!

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Talk to one of our expert designers and they will guide you from planning to installation. Schedule a call today.

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BBQ Cleaning: 11 Simple Steps To Get Your Grill Good As New

James King — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:15:45 +0000

While we’d all rather host carefree cookouts without worrying about BBQ cleaning…

Unfortunately, it’s an essential task if you want your trusty outdoor grill to last.

And if you’re here… It means you’ve got a dirty grill, and you’re wondering how to restore it to its former sparkling glory.

The good news? Cleaning your grill isn’t the daunting, drawn-out affair you’d imagine it to be.

And with the right guidance, it can be done in a flash.

So let’s get straight to it… And share the best methods for cleaning a BBQ grill!

Quick Links:

When (And Why) Should You Clean Your Grill?
The Top, Must-Have Grill Cleaning Tools
Routine BBQ Cleaning: 5 Simple Steps
How To Deep Clean Your BBQ Grill

When (And Why) Should You Clean Your Grill?

Each and every time you use a BBQ grill… You should perform a routine cleaning to keep the grill grates spic and span.

And a few times each grilling season, you’ll need to pull out all the stops, put in some elbow grease, and conduct a thorough deep clean of your entire grill.

We know, we know… BBQ cleaning may seem like just another chore on your to-do list.

However, there are many reasons why you shouldn’t skip it.

Unappetizing Outcomes

When food residue and old drippings are left to stew on your grill’s cooking surface… It’s an open invitation for bacteria, leftover carbon buildup, and generally unsavory flavors to make unwelcome appearances in your (should be) delicious dishes.

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The Sticky Grate Struggle

Not only does food build up affect flavors… It can also turn grilling into a frustrating affair.

Dirty grill grates lose their non-stick properties… And the sticky surface will make flipping meat way more difficult than it needs to be.

Potential Fire Hazard

On a more serious note… A dirty grill can quickly turn into a major safety concern.

Layer upon layer of old oil left in your grill makes grease fires a real possibility… Putting your family and property at risk.

Forgone Functionality & Financial Burdens

Stuck-on grime will accumulate in your grill quicker than you’d expect… And this buildup can drastically hamper your grill’s performance.

Interior components can begin to break down and take on rust… Turning what should’ve been a simple cleanup into an expensive maintenance problem.

This is especially pertinent if you have cast iron grill grates or components in your grill, which are notoriously susceptible to oxidation.

In short: Keep your grill clean.

Your food will taste better… Your grill will last longer… And you won’t be kicking yourself down the road for neglecting a simple chore.

Now, what tools does BBQ cleaning call for, anyway?

Must-Have Grill Cleaning Tools

Whether you’re perusing Amazon or passing through your local hardware store… The sheer amount of outdoor grill cleaning gadgets you’ll encounter is enough to make your head spin.

Are all of these BBQ grill cleaners and tools really necessary?

We say no.

Here’s what you really need to get the job done.

Rubber Gloves

First things first, be sure to have gloves on hand. (Standard rubber gloves will do!)

Grill cleaning is a messy process… And gloves will keep your hands shielded from the inevitable grime and debris.

Grill Brush

Grill brushes are a given.

They’re essential for scrubbing down grates, burners, and the interior walls of your grill.

But when selecting a grill brush… Exercise caution.

Wire brushes with steel bristles should be kept at an arm’s length!

Sharp bristles can fall off and end up in your food… And accidentally ingesting these can cause severe personal injury.

Personal safety hazards aside… Using a wire bristle brush can seriously scratch up your grill’s surfaces, turning your once-stylish stainless steel grill into an eyesore.

Instead, the best BBQ grill cleaning brush will be bristle-free, wooden, or soft-bristled.

Paper Towels or a Damp Cloth

Next, be sure to have a roll of paper towels or a damp cloth at the ready.

These will be used throughout the cleaning process… And prove invaluable while wiping away grime and food particles.

Soapy Water

While there are plenty of grill cleaning products and degreasers available, a simple DIY dish soap and warm water mixture typically does the trick.

Dish soaps like Dawn are heavy-duty degreasers… Making them a solid, safer alternative to harsh chemicals found in many off-the-shelf BBQ cleaners.

Garbage Can

Finally, when cleaning a BBQ grill… Don’t forget to set up a garbage can nearby.

You’re going to have a lot of grime and gunk to dispose of… So, save yourself some trouble by thinking ahead!

Other Optional Tools

These additional gadgets may not be absolutely essential… But they sure can make cleaning more convenient.

Spray Bottle

Using a spray bottle to dispense your water/dish soap solution can make it easier to loosen stubborn grime and target problem areas during a deep clean.

Shop Vac

A handheld shop vac isn’t a must, per se… But it can be handy for removing dirt and debris from the inside of your grill (particularly for the pellet and charcoal grill owners out there).

Putty Knife Or Scraper

If you’re dealing with stuck-on gunk… A grill scraper or putty knife may be of assistance.

These tools make it easier to dislodge grime that a standard BBQ cleaner brush might struggle to budge.

And…That’s it, your BBQ grill cleaning toolkit in a nutshell!

There’s no need to clutter your space with all sorts of specialized cleaning tools… And there’s a good chance that most of these items are already at your disposal.

Now, onto the “how-to’s…”

How To Clean A Gas Grill: Routine Cleaning

Now that you know what to include in your BBQ cleaning kit… It’s time to roll up your sleeves, and get your hands dirty.

We’ll kick things off with a routine barbeque grill cleaning guide.

This process is simple as it gets… And focuses primarily on getting the grill grates clean.

While RTA’s very own Justin Merchant cleaned his Coyote S-Series gas grill for this demonstration, the same general concepts apply to cleaning a charcoal grill or pellet grill as well.

(Looking for griddle-cleaning instructions? This process will be a bit different.)

1. Remove Grime Around Your Grill Grates

After gathering your BBQ cleaning tools and putting on a fresh pair of gloves… It’s time to get to business.

Note: Before touching any part of your grill… Always ensure that it’s powered off and fully cool.

Start by using paper towels and soapy water to wipe down the perimeter of your grill’s cooktop. (In other words, the flat area surrounding the grates.)

This will remove any lingering food particles, oils, or drippings from your last BBQ session.

2. Remove Easy-To-Budge Debris

Next, get out your grill brush.

Remove and dispose of any large pieces of debris on the cooking grates.

At this point, take a peek at the inside of your grill’s hood. Burnt carbon deposits often build up here… Though they can easily be removed with your BBQ cleaning brush.

3. Remove, Brush, And Replace Grill Grates

Now, it’s time to remove the grill grates.

This includes the warming rack, if your grill has one.

Over a trash can (or off the side of your deck, we won’t judge)... Use your grill brush to thoroughly wipe these down.

Don’t be afraid to employ some elbow grease… You want to remove as much residue as possible!

Be sure to get both the front and back of the grates… As fat and drippings adhere to both sides.

If your grill has ceramic briquettes, infrared plates, flame tamers, or flavorizer bars below the grates… Now’s the time to remove these, as well.

Use your brush to carefully clear off any burnt food bits and debris.

Once you’ve cleaned these components as thoroughly as possible… Place them all back inside the grill, upside down.

4. Turn Your Grill On High Heat

Once the grates and other components are back in place… Crank your grill’s burners to high heat.

If you have any accessories in your BBQ grill, like a smoker box, be sure that these are taken out beforehand.

Close the lid and allow your grill to run on high for approximately 10-15 minutes.

If there’s any leftover grime or stuck-on food.. The high heat will help burn off stubborn food buildup and drippings. (Placing the components upside down allows more debris to burn off… As that would be the side you typically cook on.)

Once everything is fully cooled, all that’s left to do is flip the components right side up.

5. Clean The Drip Pan

To wrap up routine cleaning… Remove your grill’s drip pan.

If you clean regularly, this step shouldn’t be too daunting.

Use warm soapy water and a rag or paper towel to remove any excess grime that has accumulated here.

Then, dry the drip pan thoroughly and put it back in place.

And with that, your grill is ready to go for your next BBQ party!

Built for hassle free maintenance

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How To Deep Clean A BBQ Grill

Frequently cleaning BBQ grates is one thing… But sometimes, your grill calls for more than a simple routine cleaning.

As we mentioned earlier… A deep cleaning should be done at least once per grilling season, or every couple of months if you grill fairly often.

Really, any time you notice a disconcerting amount of grime buildup in your grill… It’s safe to say your grill is past due for a deep clean.

Let’s see what this process entails…

1. Ensure Your Grill Is Cool, Burners Are Off, And Gas Lines Are Disconnected

When deep cleaning a grill… You’ll need to reach your hands inside the unit.

Because of this, the first step is to make sure your grill is fully cool before you start.

Additionally, you should always disconnect your propane tank or gas line before a deep clean to prevent potential leakage… And it’s best practice to double-check that the burners are powered off.

If you have a pellet grill, be sure that the power cord is unplugged… And any leftover pellets are removed from the unit.

And if you’re cleaning a charcoal grill, dispose of spent briquettes in the charcoal tray before you start cleaning.

2. Remove Grates & Internal Components

Your grates, ceramic briquettes, flavorizer bars, infrared panels, flame tamers, or similar components should already be spotless from routine cleaning… But if not, follow the steps above to complete this.

Now, if it’s been a while since your last routine cleaning… These components may require some extra attention.

You may need to spray down and/or soak them in a soap and water mixture to help loosen stuck-on grime.

If you do get these components wet… Be sure to thoroughly dry them before placing them back inside your grill. (This will prevent rusting!)

After the grates have been cleaned, dried, and put back in your grill… You may also consider adding vegetable oil to the surface to keep them non-stick and rust-free, especially if your grates are cast iron.

But, that all comes later.

For now, leave these components out of your grill.

3. Clean The Burners

With the grates, flame tamers, flavorizer bars, or other similar components out of your grill… You’ll have direct access to the burner tubes.

At this stage, you can carefully clean the burners with your grill brush.

Any grime removed from your burners will fall into your grill’s drip pan. (We’ll worry about this, later!)

Brush in a side to side motion only, as going front to back can clog the burner holes.

If needed, you can use small tools like a paperclip, drill bit, or clothes hanger to unclog the gas ports.

To get the burner tubes looking good as new… Spray them down with your soap/water mixture and use paper towels to thoroughly wipe and dry.

In some grills, the burners can be removed… Which may make it easier to conduct a thorough cleaning.

If you do remove the burners, just take extra caution to correctly reinstall them.

4. Scrub Down The Cook Box Walls

Now, it’s time to use your grill brush, soap, water, and paper towels to clean the internal walls of your grill.

This includes the underside of the hood, the hood thermometer (if applicable), the walls below the burners, and really anywhere else that you see grime.

For charcoal, pellet, and especially dirty gas grills… This is where you might want to break out the shop vac to suck up excess debris or ash residue.

If you’re cleaning a charcoal grill, a grill scraper may also come in handy here to remove remaining charcoal sludge.

Take your time with it… Your grill should be spotless!

When you’re satisfied (and your grill is looking shiny)… Fully dry the inside.

5. Clean The Drip Pan

Once your grill’s internal components are looking spic and span… It’s time to remove the grease tray.

Unlike with routine cleaning… Your drip tray will surely be jam-packed with grossness after deep cleaning your entire grill.

Dispose of loose debris in a garbage can… And use soapy water and paper towels to remove any stuck-on grime or stains. (If things are particularly putrid, it may be necessary to soak the grease catch.)

After it’s clean, clear, and dry… Re-install the drip pan.

At this stage, you’re free to place any other components you removed back in your grill.

Then, there’s just one task left…

6. Clean The Grill Exterior

Luckily, the final step of the cleaning process is by far the easiest.

Finish by wiping away dust, dirt, and grime from your grill’s exterior with soapy water.

Doesn’t get much simpler than that!

For this task, avoid using wire brushes, steel wool, or scouring pads… As these can scratch your grill’s exterior.

Instead, a damp cloth or paper towel will suffice.

And voila! You officially have a clean grill.

Make BBQ Cleaning Easier With A Summer Kitchen

Let’s be real…

No matter how easy it may be… No one likes cleaning.

And if you’re anything like us, you’re always on the lookout for ways to make your chores easier to manage.

When it comes to BBQ cleaning… That’s exactly what an outdoor kitchen can do for you.

Our custom grill islands have plenty of counter space and storage for your cleaning supplies, allowing for easy access as you clean.

Not to mention… You can factor in a sink and pull-out trash, helping to keep things neat and tidy.

Want to discover more? Read through resources in our Learning Hub, check out our free online design tool, and you’ll quickly see why it’s a good idea to have a summer kitchen on your side.

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 Long Does It Take To Clean A BBQ?

Though it may seem like a daunting chore… Cleaning your BBQ grill actually isn’t all that time-consuming.

If you have the correct tools and know-how… Routine cleaning can be completed in less than half an hour, and semi-annual deep cleans should take no more than an hour.

How Often Should You Clean Your BBQ?

You should clean your BBQ grill’s grates after each and every cook… To keep them free of grime, carbon buildup, and other leftover food bits.

At least one every grilling season, you should also conduct a deep cleaning of your grill… Which entails fully dismantling your grill to thoroughly wipe down every component.

Modern Backyard Design: 11 Practical Tips & Best Modern Materials

James King — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 14:29:23 +0000

Your home is your sanctuary… So it’s no surprise why you want to extend this solace to the backyard.

And if you’ve curated a modern feel for your interior design… It only follows that your backyard should follow suit.

Which brings us to why you’re searching for modern backyard design.

You want to maintain that aesthetic continuity throughout your property. Both inside, and out.

So you’re wondering…

Do modern interior design principles apply to your backyard?

Well, that’s what we’re about to parse out.

But before we begin… You might be wondering what makes us qualified to speak on the topic of modern backyard design.

Well, we’ve worked closely with several prominent landscape designers… And over the years, we’ve designed hundreds of outdoor kitchens for modern backyards.

Now that we’ve got that settled… Let’s begin.

Quicklinks:

Clearing the Air: What Exactly Qualifies as Modern Design?
3 Low-Maintenance Modern Materials Your Backyard Design Modern Needs
11 Practical Tips for Curating Your Modern Backyard Design
Bonus Tip: Don’t Click Off the Page Before You Read This!

Backyard Modern Design Overview

If you’ve spent any amount of time researching the topic of modern design… Then you’ll know that the term itself is rather ambiguous.

We tend to confuse modern design with contemporary design. Modern is the most cutting edge in the design-world, right?

Well, not exactly.

Contemporary design fits the bill here. Contemporary backyard design really just refers to what’s trending right now.

So where does modern design fit?

It’s actually a design style dated from the 50’s and 60’s, which focuses on minimalism and clean lines. This could also be known as mid century modern backyard design.

And although this style originated around 70 years ago… It’s well-appreciated the world over, and still endures to this day.

So with that said… Let’s get into some more concrete elements of modern backyard design.

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Trendy & Low-Maintenance Modern Design Materials

In general, modern design favors the use of low-maintenance and understated materials.

This contributes to the effortless and minimalistic feel of the space… And there’s a lot to appreciate about the unpretentious atmosphere.

But aside from aesthetics alone… There’s also a lot to love about the use of low-maintenance materials.

You can rest assured that the materials you choose will last the long haul… And won’t require much upkeep on your part. (Which also saves you some cash in the future!)

Concrete

Undoubtedly, the use of concrete is a hallmark of modern design. (Especially when used outdoors.)

The varying shades of gray embedded in concrete is a natural match for the grayscale hues commonly seen in this style.

But also… Concrete gives off a distressed, industrial look. This pairs beautifully with the modern aesthetic.

And thankfully… It couldn’t be easier to introduce concrete elements into your backyard.

Concrete patios are the obvious choice, of course!

But you won’t have to stop there.

Concrete fire pit tables, coffee tables, planters, outdoor kitchens… Even benches can bring that distressed minimalism to your space.

You could turn your backyard into a true concrete jungle… But a modern, classy one!

Now, where does maintenance come into play here?

Well, there’s a reason why concrete is the material of choice for so many industrial structures.

It’s solid… And it’s not going anywhere for a long time.

So on the maintenance front, as long as the item is well-made… You won’t have to lift a finger for years. (Possibly even decades!)

Metal

Now, metal is a bit of an interesting one.

While it can be sought out specifically for creating a modern look… More often than not, it’s chosen in favor of materials that give off a more rustic look.

Namely, wood.

And while wood can certainly be a key aspect of a modern backyard design… If it dominates your space, you won’t achieve the feel you’re after.

Hence why metal is so useful!

It effortlessly contributes to that modern minimalism… Without taking away from your overall design.

There’s no better example of this than a metal pergola.

Wooden pergolas tend to offer a rustic, boho aesthetic… Which is the exact opposite of your intention with a modern backyard design.

Just by springing for a metal pergola instead… The entire space is transformed into a modern paradise.

Metal framed outdoor furniture, light fixtures, and minimalist wall art will also contribute to this effect.

When it comes to maintenance… This really comes down to the quality of the metal you’re using.

Marine grade aluminum will be extremely resistant to corrosion, and impervious to rust… And 304 stainless steel will be highly resistant to both rust and corrosion.

Unfortunately, many brands won’t reveal the grade of metal they’re actually using for the product.

So do your best to nail down these details. If you simply can’t get your hands on a high grade metal… Just be aware that there’s a good chance your furniture will start rusting or corroding a few years down the line.

Pavers

Paver patios are a broad category.

But depending on how you utilize them… This material can become an indispensable part of your modern backyard design.

As you know, modern design favors the use of simple, predictable, and orderly patterns.

In this way… You can seriously use pavers to your advantage.

A simple pattern in a single, consistent color will enhance the modern feel of your space.

But you can take it a step further.

It’s become especially trendy to allow for space in between your pavers.

For example, the patio will consist of square pavers that are spaced out about 2” from each other on all sides.

The homeowner will then allow for either grass to grow in the crevices… Or fill it with small pebbles.

This creates the illusion of empty space, relaxing the eye… And maintaining that highly sought after modern minimalism.

And in the maintenance department… There’s nothing to complain about here!

Pavers can be made from several masonry materials. This includes concrete, natural stone, brick, or porcelain.

Once again, these are hard-wearing materials that are made to last the long haul. As long as you hire a skilled contractor to install them… Your patio will be looking pristine for years to come.

So now that you have a sense of what modern materials to use in your backyard… Let’s mosey on over to discussing some excellent ideas and suggestions.

Modern Backyard Design Ideas & Tips

The buzzwords “simple”, “clean”, and “minimalistic” are plastered all over descriptions of modern design… (Guilty as charged!)

But how do these descriptors translate to creating the best modern backyard design?

That’s what we’re about to discover.

1. Consider a Black & White Color Scheme

While the concept of a black and white design might seem overdone… We’re here to argue that’s far from the truth.

It’s the ultimate exercise in contrast.

And when it’s done well… The direct juxtaposition of black and white never ceases to be interesting.

The key is to make use of different shades and textures… Which this outdoor space happens to do a beautiful job of.

The home itself is nearly-black, with pitch-black furniture peppered throughout the space.

The concrete retaining walls and paver patios serve as more of an off-white element to the backyard… With the striped umbrellas bringing home that pure white hue.

There are a variety of different patterns that bring intrigue to the space… Keeping the eye interested and wanting to explore more.

Now, if you like the idea of a black and white design but don’t want to be pigeonholed… There’s a way to add a tasteful pop of color.

As Raf Michalowski of Meble Furniture put it, “A modern backyard aesthetic often thrives on a restrained color palette. Opt for neutral tones like whites, grays, and blacks, accentuated with pops of vibrant hues like teal or mustard. These colors create a sense of sophistication and provide a versatile backdrop for integrating various design elements.”

For a sense of liveliness… We could see this space benefitting from teal or mustard colored umbrellas rather than just black and white.

But for now, let’s feast our eyes on another restrained color palette option.

2. Ponder a Grayscale Color Palette to Add Intrigue

While black and white is the classic high contrast choice for a modern backyard… Grayscale certainly deserves to be the runner-up.

This might come as a surprise.

To many, gray is a bit of a boring color. The English language even reinforces that fact!

Depending on the context… Gray can be used to refer to something as “unremarkable” or even “soulless”.

But we’d posit that when planned properly… A grayscale color palette can become anything but blase.

Take this modern backyard landscape design, for example.

It’s dominated by different shades of gray… But it doesn’t come off as unimpressive.

The restrained color palette here creates quite a bit of intrigue, actually!

This home’s medium-dark shade of gray forms the foundation of the space.

The black dining set, light gray outdoor kitchen, and mid-gray deck offer a subtle, yet enticing contrast between each other.

If you prefer your modern backyard design to have an understated feel… There’s few things better than implementing a grayscale color palette.

3. Add a Metal Pergola

Yes, we’re circling back to the metal pergola… But after looking at this example, how could we not?

While this modern outdoor backyard design is truly stunning as-is… The metal pergola really takes things up several notches.

First of all, it adds the dimension of height.

For the most part, the elements in the backyard are all at relatively the same level.

This is fine… But you want your eyes to be drawn upward as well.

That giant palm tree certainly accomplishes this!

But the metal pergola adds a nice mid-level point that naturally draws your eye upward… Rather than the stark contrast that would exist otherwise.

In this California backyard design, the pergola also creates a pseudo-privacy barrier.

Situated at the edge of the property… It blocks some view from the potentially prying eyes of a nosy neighbor.

But if you’re already in a secluded situation… A freestanding metal pergola would also make a dazzling impression on your modern backyard design.

4. Make a Splash with a Plunge Pool

Photo Credit: Soake Pools

Without a doubt, an in-ground pool in your backyard is the height of luxury.

And when done well, they can prove to truly level-up your modern backyard design.

But you don’t always have to spring for a full-scale, enormous swimming pool.

A plunge pool provides a more affordable (yet just as functional) alternative to a classic in-ground pool.

And this modern house backyard design more than proves it!

As Karen Larson of Soake Pools comments, “This North Shore, MA backyard incorporates a Soake plunge pool and Japanese tea house into the living space. Clean lines and tidy borders make this project feel modern and sleek. The soft gray tones of the porcelain tile work well with the natural stone coping and chaise lounge ‘pads’. Lush grass between the stone elements offers a perfect surface to walk along barefoot!”

The tight rectangular shape of the plunge pool adds consistency and interest to the space… While providing an outlet for cooling off on those searing summer days.

We can just imagine taking a quick plunge in the pool… And enjoying an impeccably-brewed cup of tea while drying off in the gazebo.

No matter which way you cut it… A well-designed plunge pool adds a powerful modern element to your backyard design.

5. Use Nature to Your Advantage

Photo Credit: Jason Keen

When it comes to creating a modern backyard design… Many homeowners fall into the trap of focusing too much on the modern elements.

Confused on this point?

If you don’t temper your modern backyard design with natural features here and there… Your space will end up looking sterile and inhospitable.

Natural elements add a much needed warmth to a modern space… Inviting you in, rather than putting you off.

And this design from Ventures Design couldn’t be a greater example.

This backyard design is firmly in the modern category… Yet well-placed planters and greenery prevent the space from appearing barren.

As Juna Durrant describes, “Emerald green arborvitae surrounds the property providing beauty and privacy.”

The shrubbery provides a natural barrier to the backyard… And adds a warm splash of inviting color, welcoming you into the space.

The designer also opted for a smart use of potted plants, peppered throughout the backyard. And with the addition of an outdoor fireplace… This modern space is one we could see ourselves cozying up to, indeed.

“If the fireplace isn’t enough to keep you cozy, there are multiple ceiling-mounted heaters perfectly positioned to warm every seat in the house”, Durrant continues.

Count us in!

Modern Outdoor Kitchen

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6. Keep Decor to a Minimum

We’ve already touched upon the importance of minimalism when curating a modern style… But let’s take a peek at what that actually can look like.

This backyard space offers plenty of amenities… But the decor is kept to an absolute minimum.

In all honesty… The outdoor kitchen itself really proves to be the decorative element here!

The square umbrella doubles as an accent piece, and a functional source of shade.

There’s also a small seating area off to the side… With the striped cushions providing the decorative touch here.

You’ll notice there aren’t any vases, decorative lights, knickknacks and the like. The lack of these small, “cluttering” elements provide the empty space needed to create a modern aesthetic.

The fewer elements you have distracting your attention… More likely than not, the more modern your space will appear.

And while this backyard wouldn’t necessarily be considered strictly modern… The focus on minimalism does allow a strong note of modern ambiance to shine through.

7. Include Natural & Tranquil Water Features

While this point piggybacks on tip number 5 a bit… We feel it deserves its own explanation.

Because while water features may look natural… Ultimately, they’re a man-made backyard landscaping feature.

We’re essentially attempting to recreate a natural effect by leveraging the use of a water feature.

And for a modern landscape… This can be accomplished in several ways.

Often, it’s most impressive when designed as a meandering, calm, waterfall pouring over stones.

Just like this outdoor living area!

No surprise, the crowning jewel in this space is the water feature.

Wondering what makes it modern?

It really comes down to how the rest of the space is designed.

The paver patio provides a solidly modern touch, and with the umbrella and chairs providing a loud pop of color… These elements temper the rustic water feature, allowing it to appear more modern.

Not to mention… The tranquil sound of running water feels more modern in and of itself.

It’s a calming white noise, creating almost a sense of sonic “empty space”.

So it’s not just the visual of a waterfall that creates a modern ambiance… It’s the sound as well.

8. Spice Things Up with a Fire Pit Table

While you want to design your modern space to be simple and uncluttered… There still should be some visual elements that create interest.

And what element is more mesmerizing than fire?

It’s a primal instinct… And for inexplicable reasons, we can all stare intently at a fire for hours on end.

And let’s be honest… All the best moments of a camping trip take place in the glow of the fire pit.

So why not recreate that experience in your backyard?

This outdoor living room proves it can be done… While perfectly retaining the modern aesthetic.

In fact, this is the same backyard we referenced in tip number 2!

But that’s beside the point.

Generally speaking, the key is to avoid a circular fire pit. These tend to look more rustic… And will take away from the modern aesthetic you’re after.

So a square or rectangular option will be your best bet.

And if you can get a concrete fire pit (like this example)… You’re golden.

The modern finish of concrete eliminates any rustic feel that a fire pit might provide.

In our minds, a fire pit is a shoo-in for any modern backyard design.

9. Throw in a Garden with a Modern Twist

If you’re set on creating a modern backyard design… You might think that it’s impossible to incorporate a garden while maintaining the modern aesthetic.

We’re here to tell you that couldn’t be further from the truth!

As long as you’re thinking creatively… A modern garden design is achievable.

And although we wouldn’t categorize many elements in this space as modern… We would certainly say the garden is!

In this case, it’s more of a garden wall.

So rather than opting for an overflowing and unwieldy garden bed… You can accomplish quite a lot by arranging potted plants on the wall.

And while these homeowners primarily selected succulents for their garden wall… You could easily substitute this with a variety of edible plants.

Rosemary is a hardy shrub that happens to pair well with a modern aesthetic. Purple basil and chives would also be an excellent fit.

But if you want to break through the beginner-level herbs and graduate to something more substantial…

Beans, lettuce, kale, tomatoes, and peppers all grow well in larger containers. (Just make sure your wall can support the weight.)

10. Smart Use of Lighting

When you use outdoor lighting intelligently… It truly is a lightbulb moment. (Please, forgive us for the cheesy joke!)

But in all seriousness… Well-designed lighting creates a dramatic effect that significantly enhances your modern design.

All with the flick of a switch.

In this modern backyard idea… There’s no questioning the electrifying results.

And to be honest, we wouldn’t expect any less… Because it’s designed by one of SoCal’s premier landscape designers, Mike Pyle.

He uses a brilliant blend of uplighting, downlighting, and under-counter lighting… All of which enhance the modern ambiance.

Uplighting along the perimeter puts the greenery on full display… The down lighting illuminates those stunning outdoor kitchen countertops… And the under-counter lighting puts a stylish glow at the bar dining area.

All in all, this space simply wouldn’t read the same with string lights or chandeliers. These types of light fixtures are often just too fanciful for a modern aesthetic.

Point is, you generally don’t want the light fixtures themselves on display. What you care about for a modern design is how the light is cast in your modern backyard patio.

11. Kick Back with a Relaxed Lounge Area

Why go through all the trouble of creating a modern design if you can’t relax in it?

Sure, it’ll be pretty to look at… But the point is to actually enjoy your carefully-crafted outdoor area.

And this modern space is one we’ll kick our feet up in any day of the week.

In fact, this backyard is specifically designed for socialization.

As Larson states, “The firepit is placed within a conversational distance of the pool so that one can sit on the chair at the fire and still converse with people in the pool.”

So whether you’re lounging at the backyard fire pit, or chilling at the pool… You won’t miss a single beat of the conversation.

Not to mention, there’s also a sizable outdoor dining table within earshot of both the fire pit and plunge pool.

So while the elements of this backyard are spaced out to match the modern aesthetic… They’re still close enough to foster an intimate atmosphere.

But there’s just one thing this modern small backyard design is missing…

Bonus Idea: Finish Your Backyard Makeover Off with an Outdoor Kitchen

No matter how many modern landscaping ideas you thumb through… At the end of the day, your outdoor living space will need a focal point.

And we’d argue that the ideal focal point is an outdoor kitchen.

Many of our previous examples feature a grill island… But this one in particular really brings the concept home.

Dominated by concrete, this modern backyard fully leans into the industrial look.

But without the outdoor kitchen… What are your eyes actually drawn to? There’s not much, is there?

This modern concrete island truly ties the space together. But it also accomplishes far more than that.

An outdoor kitchen brings people together.

Whether it’s grilling burgers, smoking ribs, or firing a Neopolitan pizza… Your loved ones will be looking for every excuse in the book to come over.

So really… An outdoor kitchen isn’t just a way to cook food outside.

It’s an excuse to get together with the ones you love most… And create memories that will last a lifetime.

Every modern backyard design is begging for an outdoor kitchen to finish it all off.

So why not get started by creating your DIY outdoor kitchen design right now?

You’ll be glad you did.

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NatureKast Outdoor Kitchen: Insider Insights & 3 Important Points

James King — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 13:06:25 +0000

At the very least, a well-crafted outdoor kitchen should do two things:

Hold up to the elements.
Look beautiful while doing so.

Unfortunately, this throws wooden outdoor kitchens out of the running.

Sure, they have the visual appeal… But maintenance is a nightmare, and they’ll decay faster than you can say “BBQ.”

So, you’re left wondering if there’s a way to get the charm of real wood, without all the downsides…

And you may be in luck.

NatureKast crafts their plastic weatherproof cabinetry with a flawless wood finish… For a beautiful wooden aesthetic, minus the drawbacks of real wood.

And in this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at NatureKast products to see if they’re really a solid choice for your outdoor kitchen.

But before we get going… Why trust our take on the topic?

Well, like NatureKast, we’ve got our own line of Marine Grade Composite kitchen islands (which is our fancy way of saying weatherproof plastic).

So with our insider insights on our side… Let’s find out if NatureKast cabinets truly measure up.

Quick Links:

How NatureKast Revolutionized The Outdoor Living Industry
NatureKast Outdoor Cabinets: What Are They Made Of (And Are They Really That Durable?)
Customizing A NatureKast Outdoor Kitchen: Style & Layout Options
NatureKast Challenges & Must-Know Facts

About The NatureKast Brand

Though NatureKast was officially founded in 2009… The company was in the making as early as 2005.

Company founder Michael Moras found himself increasingly frustrated by the lack of options for wooden outdoor kitchen cabinetry…

And since real wood cabinets swell, warp, rot, and crack when exposed to the elements… He needed a solid, weatherproof alternative.

Drawing on his experience as a woodworker… Moras set out to craft his first cabinet door.

Using high-density resin and a mold… His aim was to craft a product made of durable plastic, with the visual appeal of real cypress.

Finally, four years of trial and error later… Moras perfected his technique.

Thus, the official launch of NatureKast in July 2009!

Originally founded in Florida… NatureKast’s rapid growth required a major scale in operations by 2015. Hence, their move to a larger warehouse in St. Catharines, Ontario.

Many (including NatureKast themselves), boldly claim that the brand has been a major trailblazer in the outdoor living industry, thanks to their one-of-a-kind, wood-inspired, weather-resistant cabinetry.

But before you can form any judgments on the brand yourself… It’s worthwhile to discuss exactly how NatureKast crafts their cabinets.

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NatureKast Outdoor Cabinets: How Are They Made (And Are They Really That Durable?)

It’s time to get a bit more granular.

Just how durable are NatureKast outdoor cabinets?

According to NatureKast… Their kitchen cabinetry is 100% weatherproof, low maintenance, and stands strong against wind, rain, sun, salt, moisture, snow, and practically every other adverse element.

These claims are further backed by the NatureKast warranty… Which boasts a limited lifetime of coverage.

While this sounds great and all… It’s no secret that plastic often gets a bad rap.

So at this point, you may still foster feelings of skepticism.

To reach a more thorough understanding… Let’s dig a little deeper.

NatureKast Outdoor Kitchen Cabinet Materials

NatureKast products are crafted with four different types of weatherproof plastics… But how do these really hold up?

Without turning this into an exhaustive chemistry lesson… Let’s take a closer look at each.

Polyurethane Resin

Polyurethane Resin is a strong substance, typically used for coatings, adhesives, foams, and — of course — durable plastics.

The majority of NatureKast’s cabinets are molded in high-density polyurethane resin, before being hand-finished to look like real wood.

This high density resin system allows for remarkable toughness and durability. It isn’t vulnerable to abrasion, UV-damage or fading, and perhaps most importantly… It’s incredibly water- and moisture-resistant.

High-Pressure Laminate

High-Pressure Laminate (also known as HPL or phenolic resin) is a smooth material made by bonding layers of fabric, paper, metal, or mesh together with resin.

NatureKast only uses this material for one of their outdoor cabinet styles… The “Euro.”

And perhaps this is a blessing in disguise.

High-Pressure Laminate may be of a higher caliber than your average plastic, thanks to its decent durability and good UV-resistance… But there are more downsides than ups.

Compared to the other options, it has a much lower resistance to water, moisture, and scratching.

Based on our research for our own Marine Grade Composite outdoor kitchens… We can safely say that this material is not recommended for outdoor use.

Marine-Grade High Density Polyethylene

Marine-Grade High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a tough plastic with superior water-resistance. Hence, it’s frequent use in wet environments… For things such as boats, docks, or other marine applications.

As with the high-pressure laminate… NatureKast only uses HDPE for one style of cabinet, the “Metro.”

But honestly… We’d like to see it used more often!

As we already pointed out, it has remarkable water-resistance.

Additionally, it has incredible strength, doesn’t scratch easily, won’t readily show dirt or stains, hold up well to temperature fluctuations, and is highly UV-resistant.

Expanded PVC Sheets

Bear with us… There’s just one material left to discuss.

Expanded PVC sheets are lightweight, puffy plastic boards. They’re easy to work with… And are used far and wide, for a variety of different applications (from plumbing to crafts).

NatureKast uses waterproof PVC for their cabinet and drawer boxes (which comprise the sides, top, and floor of their cabinets or drawers).

Now, PVC can sustain damage from knocks… And it’s not entirely scratch-resistant.

But that said, it does have a high immunity to water damages… Making it a generally decent choice for NatureKast cabinet boxes.

At this point, we’ve focused primarily on the positives of these materials…

But there is one major disadvantage of each that you definitely don’t want to overlook:

An Important Safety Takeaway

With the exception of HPL… It’s clear that NatureKast products will endure exceptionally well in outdoor environments. (Particularly their HDPE cabinets!)

However, there’s a huge caveat here that we’ve yet to discuss.

As with real wooden outdoor kitchens… All of the materials above are combustible.

So not only may they warp or melt… But exposure to high heats may actually cause your outdoor kitchen to catch fire.

Fortunately, there is a workaround: Insulated grill jackets.

These shield your kitchen’s structure from the excessive heat your built-in appliances churn out… Effectively preventing warping or fire hazards.

Now, we’d like to point out that NatureKast outdoor cabinets do not come with these grill jackets.

So, it’ll be up to you to make sure this component is not overlooked!

But with materials and safety in mind… Let’s move onto our next point.

Customizing A NatureKast Outdoor Kitchen

Your dream outdoor kitchen should perfectly mirror your personal tastes… A feat which often calls for customization.

So… Can a NatureKast outdoor kitchen be customized?

NatureKast claims that their outdoor kitchens are “Semi-Custom…” But what does this truly entail?

Well, simply put… You won’t just be ordering a premade outdoor kitchen kit off-the-shelf.

Rather, you’ll work with a verified NatureKast dealer to draft your design aesthetics and layout (more on this later!)… And then the necessary cabinets will be custom-crafted at the time of order.

Though NatureKast kitchens are customizable… There will be some limitations in place.

So, let’s break down your creative possibilities.

An Outdoor Kitchen Solution

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Slab

The Slab cabinet style is suited for contemporary spaces, but with a soft spin.

It’s available in over 20 finish colors… All of which feature a cypress inspired woodwork.

This style of door is made with polyurethane resin.

Shaker

The Shaker style is another polyurethane resin option.

This door design is all about simplicity, coupled with a timeless elegance.

Again, 20 finish options are available… All of which are Cypress-inspired.

Rustique

The Rustique cabinets feature a distinguished style with intricate molding… Plus a bit of intentional distressing.

Only 12 color options are available for this style, and all of the finishes feature teak wood grains.

Again, the Rustique cabinet doors are made with polyurethane resin.

Louver

The polyurethane resin Louver doors are perfect for coastal, cottage, rustic, farmhouse, or shabby chic styles… With a distressed, aged look.

Cypress wood finishes are available in 20 different hues.

Contempo

This door’s a bit different… It’s a hybrid-style with metal trim (either stainless steel or matte black aluminum framing) with a simplistic flat door panel.

Over 30 available finishes are at your disposal… In either cypress or teak.

This style of door is NatureKast’s final polyurethane resin offering.

Euro

The Euro door is inspired by European design. It has a sleeker look for contemporary or modern spaces.

It’s available in a variety of solid colors, as well as various horizontal or vertical wood grain finishes.

We mentioned it earlier… The Euro door is the only NatureKast product made with high-pressure laminate.

As a reminder, this isn’t something we’d recommend for outdoor use.

Metro

Finally, we have the Metro.

This is the door style made with high density polyethylene.

As the name implies, this style has been designed “around the no-fuss life of cities.” It’ll fit suburbia, cottage country, beach, or marina inspired backyard designs.

With this final option, you’ll have 12 wood inspired finishes to choose from for your new outdoor kitchen build.

Cabinet Configurations & Appliance Options

With styles and finishes squared away… Let’s talk about customizing the layout of your NatureKast outdoor kitchen.

Of course, the surround of your kitchen will be composed of interconnected cabinets, drawers, or a combination of the two… The layout and dimensions of which will be at your discretion.

NatureKast’s base cabinets include everything from simple storage units, to trash and recycling receptacles, to slide out cutlery drawers, and more. (If your outdoor kitchen is built against a wall… They even offer wall and tall cabinets!)

As for the built-in appliance and accessory cabinets… Well, this is where things get a bit in the weeds.

In one breath, NatureKast claims that their custom outdoor kitchens are “completely adaptable to your needs,” and can accommodate nearly any built-in appliances of your choosing… From any brand.

But on their site, there do appear to be some limitations in place.

For example… Their flat top grill cabinets. Here, it seems that your only option will be the Evo cooktop. While this isn’t bad, per se, it may not have been your first choice.

It’s a similar story for built-in sinks. NatureKast leads us to believe that their cabinets can only accommodate the Galley Workstation. (Which doesn’t look to be rated for outdoor use!)

Aside from these limitations, however… It appears that you’ll have free reign over the other built-in appliances and accessories you choose.

Just factor them into your design plans… And NatureKast should be able to account for the appropriate cutouts when crafting your custom cabinets.

It’s worth noting that you will have to buy your desired appliances from a different source… As NatureKast solely offers custom kitchen cabinets, and doesn’t appear to partner with a specific appliance brand.

To pin down further information regarding your custom outdoor kitchen layout… NatureKast suggests consulting with your local dealer.

And since NatureKast themselves admittedly don’t provide a wealth of clarity on this matter… We’d say that’s definitely your best course of action!

Which conveniently enough, brings us to our final points of discussion…

NatureKast Outdoor Cabinetry Challenges & Must-Know Facts

Before you commit to NatureKast cabinetry… There are a few must-know facts that are well worth bearing in mind.

Let’s talk about what to expect when working with NatureKast… And any potential challenges that lie ahead.

You’ll Need To Find A Dealer Near You

We’ve hinted at this a few times already… But when you work with NatureKast, you won’t really be working with NatureKast.

Rather, their outdoor kitchen cabinetry is sold through a network of third party dealers.

NatureKast does offer a dealer locator on their site, which makes it easier to find an authorized showroom near you…

But all in all, this outsourcing may ultimately end up causing more harm than good… And here’s why.

For starters, bringing a middle party into the fray often gives way to information gaps.

A dealer may not have as in-depth knowledge about NatureKast as NatureKast themselves would… Potentially leading to miscommunications or missteps.

What’s more… As previously noted, all NatureKast outdoor kitchens are built to order… And will require a custom design.

And before you can come up with that custom design… You’ll need to connect with a dealer.

This means you’ll need to spend time searching for a dealer, potentially vetting said dealer, and then coordinating an initial meeting… All before you can start designing your outdoor kitchen.

And even when you do get in touch with a dealer and start drafting your design… You’ll be forced to work around their schedule (which may already be booked up!).

Unfortunately, all of these necessary steps may draw out the process significantly longer than you had anticipated… Leaving you without an outdoor kitchen for additional weeks or months.

NatureKast Installation Isn’t DIY-Friendly

So, you’ll need to rely on a dealer to design and order your NatureKast outdoor kitchen cabinets…

And on top of that, you’ll also need to rely on that same dealer to actually install your outdoor kitchen once it arrives.

This is because NatureKast claims that their cabinetry “requires a skilled installer.”

Indeed, the installation process does not appear to be beginner-friendly (not by a long shot!).

And even with the help of your dealer… It may take multiple weeks to actually get your island up and running.

Depending on the size and scope of your custom design… The cabinets may need to be bolted together… Cabinet and drawer boxes will need to be properly installed… Handles or pulls will need to be inserted… Countertops need to be cut and placed… And built-in appliances need to be fitted.

And not to scare you off… But that super-simplified summary barely scratches the surface.

Needless to say, this definitely isn’t a DIY outdoor kitchen solution.

But, working with a dealer for design and installation isn’t the only challenge to be aware of…

Countertops & Hardware Are Sold Separately

When you order NatureKast kitchen cabinets… That’s all you’ll get.

As we pointed out earlier, you will have to buy appliances and accessories separately… But these components aren’t the only essentials that don’t come in the box.

Countertops and must-have cabinet hardware (knobs, pulls, or handles) are also missing!

NatureKast does offer a full line of durable pulls and knobs… But this is yet another component that you’ll have to coordinate with your dealer to actually get.

As for the countertop, you’ll need to have one custom cut to top off your kitchen design… Which means you’ll need to hire yet another professional to get your kitchen up and running. (If you’re ambitious, you could also attempt a DIY concrete countertop!)

But all in all, things just keep getting more and more complex.

NatureKast Reviews Are Hard To Find

Let’s shift our focus to another key consideration:

Customer reviews.

If you’re still on the fence about NatureKast… Looking through other homeowners’ experiences may ultimately sway your opinion one way or another.

But for a company that’s been around since 2009… We couldn’t pin down nearly as many reviews as you’d expect.

The reviews we could identify did skew towards the positive side… And customers generally seemed happy with the finished product.

But honestly, the lack of reviews is a bit disconcerting… And makes it even more difficult to get a feel for the overall customer experience.

Your best course of action here may be combing through reviews of your local NatureKast dealers, specifically… And filtering the results to show only relevant ratings. (Any reviews not related to NatureKast obviously won’t be super useful to you!)

NatureKast Cost (It Isn’t The Cheapest Option!)

There’s just one key question left to consider…

How much do NatureKast cabinets cost?

Unfortunately, NatureKast offers no clarity on this matter.

Of course, it really depends on the size and scope of your custom kitchen island…

And presumably, pricing will vary depending on the dealer you work with, where you’re located, and the scope of services they provide you.

So, defining an average cost of NatureKast cabinets would certainly be a challenge. We’ll give them that.

But if you’re just after a ballpark figure of NatureKast cost… The video above may give you a basic idea.

In this video, the homeowner reveals that he spent $14,000 on the cabinets alone for his L-shape kitchen structure… Excluding the cost of appliances, insulated jackets, countertops, or hardware.

At least in this instance, this puts the final price of a NatureKast outdoor kitchen above the nationwide average of $13,000.

And once you account for all additional components, plus your dealer’s labor and design efforts… The total cost will only continue to rise.

For some, the stylish, high quality faux wood cabinetry may make it easy to justify that elevated price tag.

For others, however… This simply won’t be feasible.

So, where does that leave you?

Not Sold On NatureKast?

There’s no denying that NatureKast cabinets (for the most part) are ultra-durable, beautiful, and one-of-a-kind.

But regardless, the road to getting a Naturekast kitchen may just be too darn complicated.

We get it!

You’ll have to work through a third party dealer to craft, order, and install your design… Crucial details are a bit hazy… And not every necessary component comes in the box, which certainly could be frustrating.

So, if you’re after a convenient outdoor kitchen, that doesn’t require you to dig deeper for all the details…

A custom outdoor kitchen kit that comes with everything you need, right out of the box…

Or even a DIY outdoor kitchen that lets you take control of your own timeline, from the start…

We have a solution for you.

Of course, we’re talking about our own RTA outdoor kitchens.

Make Your Life Easier With RTA

When you work with RTA for your custom outdoor kitchen design… You’ll reap the benefits of Naturekast, while leaving all the complications and uncertainties behind.

Our fully custom outdoor kitchen islands are made with durable composite concrete panels… Which are ultra-resistant to even the most adverse weather. (Plus, they’re covered under a limited lifetime warranty).

If you’re all about the real wood look… These are available in weathered wood ash or umber finishes.

But if you’re keener on the durable weatherproof plastic side of the equation, we’ve got you covered on that front, too.

RTA offers pre-designed modular kitchen islands, constructed with durable marine-grade composite panels… For a lightweight, long-lasting outdoor kitchen that comes with everything you need, right out of the box.

Now, let’s circle back to the point.

How exactly will RTA make your life easier?

Well, for starters… When you work with us, you’re only working with us.

You don’t have to go through or pay for third party dealers, and submitting a custom design can be done at your convenience with our free online design tool.

With this tool, you can easily select your ideal layout, dimensions, finish, and appliances from Coyote Outdoor Living’s premium line.

Then, you’ll connect one-on-one with a Design Expert…. So we can custom craft your kitchen to perfectly match your specifications.

From there, every component will ship straight to your door (this includes the kitchen structure, appliances, countertops, and all necessary hardware).

And when it comes to installation… We’ll give you all the resources to DIY, or connect you with one of our Pro Installers to get the job done. In either case, your entire kitchen island can come together in less than a day!

We’re firm believers that crafting an outdoor kitchen shouldn’t be complicated… And to further help you, we provide all sorts of helpful details via our Learning Hub.

So check out our available resources… Get in touch… And in no time, you’ll be cooking outdoors, in style.

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 NatureKast Made Of?

NatureKast uses a variety of materials to craft their weatherproof outdoor kitchen cabinets… Including polyurethane resin, high pressure laminate, and marine-grade high density polyethylene for the cabinet doors, and expanded PVC sheets for the cabinet drawers and boxes.

Aside from high pressure laminate, all of these materials are well-suited to endure the outdoor elements… And should last for years to come.

Smoker Grill: 5 Expert-Backed Options, with Pros & Cons

James King — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 13:49:55 +0000

If you’re looking to explore the world of backyard barbecuing… You’ll quickly realize there’s a lot more to it than just steaks and burgers.

When you see the enormity of that culinary potential opened up to you… The last thing you want to do is limit yourself.

You want to experience it all.

With that in mind… The equipment you choose for the task should be capable of anything you throw at it.

And ultimately, that’s why you’re looking for a smoker grill.

You don’t want something that can only grill… Or only smoke. You need both.

In this article, we’ll be diving into exactly what a smoker grill should be, the options available, and some of the best options on the market.

Let’s fire up the grill.

Quicklinks:

Cutting Through Confusion: No-Nonsense Definition of a Smoker Grill
Pros & Cons of the 4 Primary Grill Smoker Types to Narrow Down Your Decision
What is the Best Rated Smoker Grill? 5 Best Brands & Models to Consider in 2023
The Perfect Accompaniment to Your New Grill and Smoker Combo

What is a Smoker Grill?

Before we dive into the meat of this article… Let’s get crystal clear on what a smoker grill actually is.

To assist us with nailing down the definition… We asked this question to our resident BBQ expert, Ethan Fullenkamp.

Unsurprisingly, a smoker grill is an appliance that should be equally proficient at smoking and grilling.

“A smoker grill is going to be versatile, it’s going to be convenient, and I would even say cost effective, because you’re getting a two-in-one combo. They won’t do either thing fantastically, but you will be able to have good products come off that grill in a convenient manner”, Ethan explains.

You won’t be able to achieve show-stopping, competition-grade results on either end of the spectrum… But a smoker grill will still allow you to achieve a delicious product, especially for a beginner to intermediate barbecuer.

Plus, a smoker grill makes it easier to get some smoking and grilling skills under your belt.

“It’s a good way to have the convenience of grilling and smoking without the headache, the long hours, work of tending a fire, etc.”, Ethan continues.

While most gas grills are relatively simple to use… Smoking on an offset smoker proves to be exceptionally difficult for a beginner. You have to learn how to manage the firebox, the fire, the smoke… It’s a lot to keep track of.

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A smoker grill can offer you some “training wheels” to make the experience of smoking just a bit more foolproof… Which will encourage you to go deeper as you’re getting started.

And that’s not the only reason why Ethan recommends a smoker grill for beginners. You can save yourself a lot of money by buying a single appliance, rather than a dedicated smoker and grill.

Most beginners don’t want to buy two appliances “because the cost adds up when you’re trying to get into it. So the value might not be there since you’re a beginner and don’t know what you’re getting into”, Ethan says.

Aside from getting you into the hobby at a reasonable price… If you decide it’s not for you, you don’t lose out on much.

If you do end up loving to smoke and grill… You can always upgrade to a dedicated appliance later.

Got it?

Let’s move on over to different types of smoker grills.

4 Smoker Types to Satisfy Your BBQ Cravings

Now that you’ve decided you want a smoker grill… The next question you’ll want to answer is:

“What kind should I buy?”

Great question. Let’s take a look.

Pellet Smoker Grill

Pellet grills are currently dominating the outdoor cooking industry.

As Ethan says, “They’ve really just taken over the market.”

It’s easy to see why!

Pellet grills are incredibly convenient to use… And still dish out high quality flavors.

You just add wood pellets to the hopper, set the temperature on the digital control panel… And grill or smoke to your heart’s content.

Plus, most pellet smokers come with meat probes and WiFi capability… To keep track of temperatures remotely.

It’s as “set it and forget it” as you can possibly get in the grilling and smoking world.

Most pellet grills won’t break the bank, either.

Ethan chimes in, “Nowadays, you can spend $300 – $400 and get into the market. When they’re on sale, I’ve seen pellet grills as cheap as $200 – $300.”

With this low barrier to entry… You can always upgrade to a premium option later without feeling like you’ve wasted money initially.

There’s only one caveat, though.

Not all pellet grills reach a high enough temperature to sear optimally. Most big-name pellet smokers will max out at 500°F… (Traeger, Z-Grills, Camp Chef and Pit Boss are good examples.) So you’ll need something hotter if you want to experiment with high temperature sears.

Or alternatively… You might set your eyes on a charcoal grill, instead.

Charcoal Smoker Grill

While the popularity of charcoal grills may have been dethroned in recent years by the formidable pellet smoker… Charcoal grills still hold their own in the BBQ world.

And how could they not?

The image of Weber’s kettle grill is indelibly etched into the American mind… With a man in an apron standing right next to it, spatula and beer in hand.

Despite the stereotype, there’s a valid reason why charcoal grills have such staying power.

They’re simple and effective.

You light up some charcoal briquettes… Get your grill up to the target temperature… And lay down some burgers.

That charcoal flavor is nothing to turn your nose up at… And the simplicity of a charcoal grill allows you to focus on the joy of cooking.

But compared to a pellet grill, you will lose out a bit on the smoking side of things.

This is simply due to the way a charcoal grill is designed. You can certainly smoke in them… But they’re not typically made with this purpose in mind.

As Ethan put it, “The whole thing gets kind of smoky in there. And while it does get vented out, it’s not quite as efficient as a kamado or other smoker.”

Which brings us to…

Kamado Grill Smoker Combo

While not as ubiquitous as the classic charcoal grill… Kamado grills have been increasing in popularity in recent years.

Brands like Big Green Egg and Kamado Joe have made a splash in the grilling scene… Offering up colorful charcoal smokers to jazz up your backyard.

But a kamado does far more than provide a unique aesthetic. It’s an impressive appliance when it comes to both smoking and grilling.

Firstly, since kamado grills are fueled with lump charcoal… That right there will give you more flavor than wood pellets or charcoal briquettes.

This is because lump charcoal is essentially pure wood that’s been burned down… Which gives you a flavor far closer to the real thing.

Plus, “You have a lot more flavor options. That’s where you can start mixing and matching meat profiles with smoke profiles and get some interesting combinations”, Ethan explains.

The same thing applies for the wood chips you use! You can mix hickory lump charcoal with maple chips… Or any other number of things.

But let’s get back to the kamado itself. Being a charcoal appliance, it can get to high heat grilling temperatures with relative ease.

On the flip side… The heat retention and insulative nature of ceramic grills also makes them excel with smoking.

“You’re farther away from the heat source, you have indirect heating plates, and the airflow is a lot different than a regular charcoal grill. It’s coming around that indirect heating plate, coming around the ceramic, and that heat is actually coming from the top down”, Ethan shares.

For smoking, these are the things you want to look for to get a great product. But what’s the tradeoff?

Temperature control and fire management are a bit more challenging with a kamado grill. Once you get that temperature set… You’re good to go. But it’s getting there that’s the trick!

You’ll need to invest some more effort into a kamado… But it’s worth the results.

Now, what if you want the flavor of charcoal, while maintaining convenience?

Gravity Smoker Grill Combo

Gravity smokers are a super-recent addition to the backyard barbecue scene… Being introduced by Masterbuilt only in 2019.

Although there are still just a few options available… Their popularity is growing rapidly, and it’s easy to see why.

Gravity smokers take the convenience of a wood pellet grill… But use lump charcoal or charcoal briquettes for fuel.

So you can get that deep, smoky flavor of charcoal… Without sacrificing on the convenience a pellet grill will bring.

And we must say, the results when smoking are quite magnificent.

As Ethan put it, “Some of the product I’ve taken off of a gravity smoker has been really phenomenal. If I didn’t know any better, I’d say it’s like offset-type quality.”

Talk about some high praise!

So it’s no doubt that gravity smokers excel in that category. What about grilling?

Well, it really depends on the model you choose. Masterbuilt’s Gravity Series 1050 can hit maximum temperatures of 700°F… Which is plenty of heat for all your grilling needs.

But, you might be twiddling your thumbs a bit before the grill really gets going.

“Gravity smokers can get the heat higher, but it takes a lot longer”, Ethan clarifies.

No doubt, your patience will be rewarded.

And while it may seem like a gravity smoker is the no-brainer choice… Being a new category of grill/smoker combo, they will be on the pricier side. So you’ll want to keep your budget in mind before making a final decision.

With that said… Let’s take a look at some smoker grill brands to consider for your backyard!

Best Smoker Grill Brands & Models of 2023

As you’re surfing the web for the best BBQ smoker and grill combo… It’s likely you’ll be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of options.

And that’s not surprising at all… There’s more being released every day.

So to narrow down your search… We’ll discuss some of the best brands on the market, depending on your needs… So you can make a decision on the best BBQ smoker grill for you.

Budget Friendly Starter Options: Char-Griller

Product Highlights

Price: $149.00

Warranty: 1 year

Cooking Surface: 640 Square Inches

If you’re a beginner and don’t have much money to spend… A Char-Griller can be your inexpensive ticket into the grilling and smoking world.

They offer several kamado and charcoal grill options to help you get started.

Their most well-rated charcoal grill, the Wrangler, has quite a bit to bring to the table.

This barrel-shaped grill provides 640 square inches of cooking area… And you can even purchase a side firebox to convert this grill into an offset smoker. (Pretty neat, right?)

The grill itself will only set you back $149.00… And will be covered by a 1 year warranty.

Although Char-Griller claims a “heavy duty steel construction” on this grill… The affordable price and short warranty implies that you can’t expect much longevity out of this grill.

So the price is great for getting started… But you’ll likely want to save for an upgrade if you catch the barbecuing bug!

Product Highlights

Price: $339.00

Warranty: 5 years

Cooking Surface: 445 Square Inches

These points will also carry over to Char-Griller’s kamado options.

Their kamado series is named the “AKORN”, with a couple portable options that are great for tailgating and camping.

But for their standard option… The original AKORN will provide 445 square inches of cooking area and a temperature range of 200°F – 700°F.

Unlike most other kamados… This one will not be made from ceramic, but rather, triple walled steel.

Again, the longevity of this steel will be in question… But it does contribute to a more palatable price, sitting at $399.00 with a 5 year warranty covering rust through or burn through.

Great Starter to Intermediate Pellet Grill Smoker: Recteq

Product Highlights

Price: $499.00

Warranty: 2 years

Cooking Surface: 380 Square Inches

If you’re set on a pellet smoker… Recteq grills are a fantastic option for your beginner to intermediate smoking needs.

In fact, it’s one of Ethan’s preferred pellet grill brands!

He himself owns both a Recteq Bullseye and RT-590… With the Bullseye being the grill he uses several times a week.

Getting into some of the specs… The Bullseye has a temperature range of 200°F – 750°F, which is plenty of heat for grilling as well as smoking.

It will come with a decently sized 15 lb hopper, and 380 square inches of cooking space.

Recteq advertises a stainless steel construction, although the grade is unknown (we like to see 304)… And will come backed by a 2 year warranty.

Ethan’s had his Bullseye for several years, and “It holds up fantastically. I live in Florida where everything rusts out in 5 minutes when it gets rained on, but this thing is a tank.”

In terms of longevity… This grill is well constructed for the price! (Which is $499.00, by the way.)

Product Highlights

Price: $899.00

Warranty: 4 years

Cooking Surface: 592 Square Inches

If you don’t mind spending more money to gain a larger cooking surface… You might want to bump up your investment to the RT-590, priced at $899.00.

You’ll get a larger 592 square inch cooking area, and a slightly different temperature range… Sitting at 180°F – 700°F.

The hopper capacity is doubled, at 30 lbs… And same goes for the warranty, which is extended to 4 year coverage.

The RT-590 contains a 304 stainless steel firepot, heat deflector, and steel drip pan, which is great to see. However, the rest is constructed with an unspecified grade of stainless steel. (So you’ll want to follow up with Recteq on the quality here.)

That said, Recteq offers several excellent home smoker grills to get you started… That won’t break the bank.

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Best Gravity Smoker Barbecue Grill: Masterbuilt

Masterbuilt is a brand known for offering a variety of outdoor cooking appliances… Including charcoal grills, gravity smokers, electric smokers, propane fryers, and even an outdoor air fryer!

But for our purposes… We’ll be zoning in on the gravity smokers and charcoal grills.

Starting with some of the charcoal grills… Let’s take a closer look at the 30” version. (There’s a 36” available as well.)

Aside from its impressive appearance, this grill boasts a 504 square inch cooking area… With plenty of space to grill or smoke for the entire family!

This grill also includes two adjustable vents and a short smoke stack… Allowing you to be more accurate with temperature control.

This grill will currently cost you a quite affordable $299.99, and come with a 1 year limited warranty.

The only trouble is… The exterior is made with an ambiguous grade of “painted steel”, which is likely to rust and corrode if the coating chips off.

The cooking grates are made from cast iron, which will require careful maintenance on your part.

Product Highlights

Price: $497.00

Warranty: 4 years

Cooking Surface: 592 Square Inches

But if convenience and great flavor is what you’re after… Masterbuilt’s Gravity Series 560 might pique your interest.

The charcoal hopper automatically shuttles in fresh lump charcoal or briquettes as needed… Leaving you with more time enjoying the outdoors, and less time fiddling with the fire. (The 560 can hold 10 lbs of lump charcoal, or 16 lbs of briquettes.)

And as the name implies… This gravity smoker will come with 560 square inches of cooking area, being slightly larger than the 30” charcoal grill. (Larger sizes are available as well.)

The temperature range will peak at 700°F, which will give you no trouble when searing a delicious steak.

But once again, material quality does leave more to be desired. We get the same ambiguous steel construction, as well as cast iron grill grates.

This $497.00 grill is backed by a 1 year limited warranty… So again, durability in the long run is in question here. But if this doesn’t bother you… You can always upgrade to a more robust option later.

Which brings another thought into mind. If you’re feeling pretty confident that this hobby is one that’s going to stick… You might just want to spring for a premium option from the get-go.

Best Smoker Grill for the Money: Coyote Outdoor Living

Product Highlights

Price: $3,779.00

Warranty: Lifetime

Cooking Surface: 450 Square Inches

If we’re going to talk about some of the best grill smokers out there… We’re going to have to touch on Coyote’s premium appliance line.

They offer an exceptional range of outdoor appliances and grills, including pellet grills and kamado grills.

Should you also be interested in incorporating your new pellet grill into an outdoor kitchen… Both of Coyote’s pellet grills (the 28” and 36”) are available for built-in use, in addition to freestanding.

Since we brought up the Coyote pellet grill… Let’s take a closer look at the 28”, shall we?

This pellet grill comes with a respectable 450 square inches of cooking area… And a temperature range of 175°F to 650°F.

That extra-low end is fantastic for infusing extra smoke flavor into a rack of ribs… And the high end is still great for searing a steak.

The 28” pellet grill will come with a 12 lb hopper, which is on the smaller side… But should still be adequate for most of your barbecuing needs.

Where the Coyote pellet grill really shines is the construction. With inside and out 304 stainless steel construction and a lifetime warranty… This is one of the best pellet grills you’ll find in terms of quality and value.

But of course, the initial investment will be much higher… With the freestanding 28” pellet grill currently sitting at $3,779.00.

Product Highlights

Price: $1,499.00

Warranty: Lifetime

Cooking Surface: 254 Square Inches

Alternatively, you might have your eye on a fully-fledged ceramic kamado smoker… In which case, Coyote’s got you covered with their asado.

This beautifully constructed ceramic grill will come with 254 square inches of cooking area… And be packaged with Coyote’s heavy duty laser cut grill grates.

The black finish offers an appealing look with any backyard aesthetic… And will perform flawlessly for years to come, with its lifetime warranty.

The freestanding Coyote Asado is currently available for $1,499.00.

Most Beginner Friendly Outdoor Smoker Grill: Weber

Product Highlights

Price: $219.00

Warranty: 2, 5, 10 year plans

Cooking Surface: 363 Square Inches

This blog wouldn’t be complete without mention of Weber.

As Ethan says, “Weber does make a really good entry-level kettle grill. I’ve seen absolute pitmasters that have been doing this for the last 50 years use Weber grills.”

What can we say? They’re reliable.

For that reason, the original kettle grill from Weber is still one of the best beginner friendly smoker grills out there.

The 22” premium model in particular has 363 square inches of cooking area… And comes with a 10 year, 5 year, or 2 year warranty, depending on the parts in question.

And being offered for the low, low price of $219.00… The warranty is decent for such a low barrier to entry.

Just know that these things aren’t bulletproof! Weber grills come with a porcelain enameled coating… Which will get you into trouble if that starts to chip or flake off.

Also note that the kettle grill won’t perform as well for smoking as it will for grilling… So if you plan on doing more smoking, you might consider getting a Weber smokey mountain (a dedicated smoker) or the summit kamado smoker/grill instead.

While Weber grill smokers are a great way to get your barbecuing legs… You might be looking for a way to go all-out with your new purchase.

Grill Smoker + Outdoor Kitchen = Barbecuing Bliss

Once you’ve had some time to hone your barbecuing skills… You’ll quickly realize that there are some significant inconveniences when it comes to cooking outdoors.

Most grills come with small side shelves… Which doesn’t leave enough room to set down all your utensils, seasonings, and food. (Some don’t come with a shelf at all!)

Which means, you’re constantly running in and out of the house for supplies.

It also means that you can’t serve your delicious meals right outdoors… Can you imagine trying to have a spread of burger toppings laid out buffet style?

You can’t do that with a simple side shelf.

An outdoor kitchen solves the problem of space… And so much more.

You’ll get as much counter space as you could possibly desire… Plus have the potential to add a wide array of other grilling accessories.

Gas grills, refrigerators, sinks, pizza ovens… You get the idea.

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves.

If you’re at all curious about how an outdoor kitchen can make your grilling and slow cooking experience easier… Play around with creating your ideal design.

Our free outdoor kitchen design tool will allow you to do just that in a few clicks… And with no cost to you.

Have fun designing!

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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