Outdoor Kitchens Add Value to a Home

Outdoor kitchens are becoming a popular trend, but they require the homeowner to make a lot of decisions, such as whether the space will be used as a place for the family to hang out, or an area for entertaining guests. This determination is important because a place to entertain guests must include a bigger grill, side burners, a bar island, a sink, access drawers, and even a flat-screen television. Making this decision also depends on the homeowner’s budget. It can cost between $10,000 and $50,000 to build an outdoor kitchen. Once these questions are answered, a company must be hired to design and construct the area. The contractor should be licensed and insured landscape architect who has references. A licensed professional has knowledge of what is needed with regard to permits for running a gas line outside, water accommodations, and electrical issues. It is helpful to get ideas from home and entertaining magazines in addition to design Web sites to see what is appealing. The National Outdoor Kitchen and Fireplace Association (NOKFA) says that outdoor kitchens will increase the value of a home. “An outdoor kitchen can hold its own,” says NOKFA President Mark Allen. “If you spend $20,000 on an outdoor kitchen you can get your money back.” | Read More