[kosmokramer]

I am in the planning process of my project and have quite a few questions. First, I have been searching on the internet and cannot find a diy forum directed specifically toward outdoor kitchens and bbq island construction and design. Does anybody know of one?
Also I have noticed most islands are based on galvanized studs or block foundations and i was wondering if i could weld a frame out of square tubing, seams easier and sturdier to me? I was wondering why more people dont do it this way or if there was a downside to it?

Thats it for now, Thanks in advance for the help.
Sean

 

[DangerMouse]

I have been searching on the internet and cannot find a diy forum directed specifically toward outdoor kitchens and bbq island construction and design. Does anybody know of one?

If such exists and someone DID post the link, it would be against the rules and would be removed. Your questions CAN be answered HERE though if posted in the proper sections, which this is. Although there are other sub-forums here that could apply as well.

DM

 

[vsheetz]

Galvanized studs or block foundations are readily available to DIY'ers vs. a welder - but I don't see anything wrong with welding up a frame if you have the capability.

I build mine with a block base (removed from another project), cement board for underlayment of the countertop, then tiled the top and stucco covering the sides. I bought a natural gas grill on sale at Home Depot for $99, threw away the base and wheels, and built the grill into the structure. Not as fancy as a grill designed for the purpose, but hey, only $99 instead of several hundreds of $$ - and the meat still tastes great. My gas connection was easy due to the pool heater being nearby. I also installed a small sink - very convienent.

 

[kosmokramer]

Danger, i apologize for the infraction, wont happen again...Im just trying to get general ideas and pros and cons without clogging up the forums with 1000 question from a newb

Vsheetz, Im a union steel worker and the in laws are union iron workers so tubing a wlding machine and a chopsaw are readily available and i think the tubing is a bit cheaper than studs. I was fortunate enought o find a 42" linx bbq and double doors for 500 buck so now im looking for the kegerator and the project will begin.

Do you have any finished pics? While the welding isnt an issue ive never put up the backer board and intend to do stone veneer which will also be new for me

 

[DangerMouse]

Danger, i apologize for the infraction, wont happen again...

You broke no rules.... besides, you're already IN the best darn forum out there, and all of your questions can be answered here! :laughing:

DM

 

[Cet99]

I build mine with a block base (removed from another project), cement board for underlayment of the countertop, then tiled the top and stucco covering the sides. I bought a natural gas grill on sale at Home Depot for $99, threw away the base and wheels, and built the grill into the structure. Not as fancy as a grill designed for the purpose, but hey, only $99 instead of several hundreds of $$ - and the meat still tastes great. My gas connection was easy due to the pool heater being nearby. I also installed a small sink - very convienent.

Hi, don't mean to highjack the thread, but that is exactly what I'm trying to do. I already have the cement foundation and block available. Care to share how you build yours? Thanks.

 

[vsheetz]

Here's some pictures - see the dining pation and outdoor kitchen photo.
http://www.webjeepers.com/homestead.html

Simple concrete block construction for the wall behind and the front wall of the kitchen counter. A bit of pressure treated lumber inside for cross peices to provide support for the backer-board top. Tile over the backer-board, stucco finish over the walls and counter front. Pool equipment with gas heater is behind the kitchen, so easy to bring gas into kitchen counter. Plumbing for the sink brought through the wall from the house (garage and laundry nearby inside). Socal, so don't have to worry with plumbing freezing up in the winter. Glass top table and chairs via my wife winning $500 jackpot at the slot machines when on a cruise. :thumbsup:

 

[kosmokramer]

I will just go ahead and use this post to document my progress and from start to finish, i hope anybody and everybody will free free to give their opinion and share their experiences while building.

So here is the first and most critical i believe, the components of the outdoor kitchen. Keep in mind i have a small backyard and budget so i will be keeping this island pretty simple.

First is the kegerator, this is a summit sbc490os designed for outdoor, built-in use. I bought this today from craigslist for 80$ (retail 1600) It is non op and hopefully only needing the compressor, i will be taking it next weekend to a Mr keg in Huntington beach for repair. Im in upland however so if anybody knows a place closer i would be glad to here it.

 

[MakeaShed]

I believe this is one of the best places to get all your questions answered. So you need not go to any other place.

 

[Golfer1010]

Just curious, I assume more than the compressor was bad and he decide against the outdoor kitchen?