Outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly popular for backyard entertaining and alfresco dining. Having an outdoor kitchen allows you to cook, prepare food, and clean up all while enjoying the fresh air. Building your own outdoor kitchen cabinets is a rewarding DIY project that can save thousands of dollars compared to buying pre-made options. With some basic carpentry skills and the right materials, you can create customized cabinets that are durable, weather-resistant, and match your style. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of building outdoor kitchen cabinets from start to finish.
Selecting the Right Outdoor Kitchen Cabinet Materials
When building outdoor cabinets, using weather-resistant materials is crucial to withstand seasonal temperature changes, moisture, pests, and UV rays without rapidly deteriorating. Here are the best materials for fabricating sturdy, long-lasting outdoor kitchen cabinetry:
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is one of the most popular choices for outdoor cabinets because of its durability and sleek appearance. Opt for 304 or 316 grade stainless steel as it has a higher corrosion resistance than cheaper grades. Stainless steel cabinets are expensive but require minimal maintenance and can last decades with proper care. They are also easy to clean and sanitize.
Teak Wood
Teak is a tropical hardwood known for its natural oils that help repel water, pests, and rot. It has an attractive golden color and weathers to a silvery-grey patina. Teak is dense, stable, and durable, though it requires periodic sealing to maintain its resistance and smooth finish. It’s a great option for doors, drawers, and trim.
Marine-Grade Plywood
Marine-grade plywood is treated to withstand moisture. It consists of boards laminated with waterproof structural adhesives. Opt for plywood rated “exterior” or “marine” grade. Though not naturally weather-resistant like teak, it is less expensive and suitable for painting or wrapping in waterproof membranes.
Aluminum
Extruded aluminum is lightweight yet strong and naturally rust and corrosion-resistant. It can dent easily so choose thicker gauge aluminum for cabinets. Powder coating adds a protective and decorative finish available in many colors. Aluminum requires minimal maintenance but may still show superficial oxidation over time.
Concrete
Poured concrete is extremely durable for countertops and cabinets. Use a high-strength concrete mix reinforced with rebar or fiberglass for stability. Concrete has a modern, industrial aesthetic and can be molded into any shape when wet. It’s also naturally fireproof and requires very low maintenance. Just seal it to prevent moisture damage.
PVC Board
PVC boards consist of a foam or wood substrate wrapped in a PVC plastic shell. They are mold, mildew, and scratch-resistant as well as easy to clean. PVC boards are a lightweight and affordable choice for semi-DIY builds but lack the elegance of real wood. Choose boards with heavier plastic shells for increased durability.
Designing and Planning Your Outdoor Kitchen Layout
Carefully planning where to position your outdoor kitchen cabinetry is key before starting construction. Assess your needs, available space, and how the layout best fits your entertaining style. Here are some tips for designing your ideal outdoor kitchen:
- Consider foot traffic routes to avoid collisions between guests and the grill or cooktop. Allow 3-4 feet clearance behind and on each side.
- Ensure adequate ventilation, lighting, and electrical outlets by noting proximity to the house.
- Locate next to an exterior door or large window for easy transporting of food and supplies.
- Include a sink with hot and cold running water for washing, prepping, and cleaning.
- Incorporate a prep surface and storage near the grill for handy access to tools and ingredients.
- Allow room for a refrigerator, cabinets, trash receptacle, and serving areas.
- Draft plans with exact measurements to visualize spacing and traffic flow.
- Decide on built-in vs freestanding cabinetry based on portability needs and aesthetics.
Take time to think through how you cook, entertain, and clean to optimize the convenience and functionality of your layout. An outdoor kitchen island can increase your prep space while separating the grill zone from other areas.
Constructing the Cabinet Frames
The cabinet frames provide the underlying structure to mount your doors, drawers, and shelves onto. Wood is the most common material used to frame outdoor cabinets, though lightweight aluminum can also be used. Follow these steps to build sturdy cabinet frames:
Select Your Materials
Use weather-resistant wood like cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine. Choose wood that is straight, knot-free, and free of defects. Purchase boards in the dimensions specified in your plans.
Cut Pieces to Size
Use a miter saw to cut the wood to the required lengths for the sides, tops, bottoms, shelves, and face frames per your diagrams. Cut pieces 1/2″ shorter than final dimensions to allow for the cabinet thickness.
Assemble the Boxes
Arrange pieces face down and join them with exterior wood glue and deck screws. Use corner clamps to hold joints tightly until the adhesive dries. Check boxes for squareness using a framing square.
Attach Face Frames
Glue and screw decorative face frames to the front of the cabinet boxes to conceal edges and provide mounting points for doors and drawers. Use pocket hole joinery for clean results.
Add Shelves and Drawer Dividers
Cut shelves and slide in adjustable shelf pins. Screw in dividers to separate drawer compartments. Use your planned interior organization to guide placement.
Sand and Seal the Wood
Sand any rough edges. Seal all surfaces of the frames with an exterior wood sealant to protect from moisture. Allow sealer to fully dry before the next steps.
Taking time to construct solid frames ensures your cabinets remain square and rigid after installation. Check each frame for flaws before moving on.
Installing Durable Outdoor Cabinet Doors
The doors are one of the most visible parts of your outdoor kitchen cabinetry, so choose doors that are attractive, functional, and weather-resistant. Here are some top options:
Teak Wood Doors
Teak wood doors have a beautiful grain and color. They are resistant to moisture and require only light sanding and re-oiling yearly to maintain the warm golden finish. Opt for mortise and tenon joinery for durability.
Stainless Steel Doors
Stainless steel doors are shiny, modern, and easy to clean. Choose brushed satin or lighter finishes to prevent glare and fingerprints from showing. Be sure doors have ventilation holes to allow heat and moisture to escape.
Aluminum and Glass Doors
Combining powder coated aluminum frames with tempered glass panes creates doors that are sturdy yet allow you to see inside cabinets. Glass must be specially ordered, so provide your exact measurements.
PVC Doors
PVC plastic doors are inexpensive and low maintenance. Look for doors made from thicker, more rigid plastic rather than thin vinyl that tears easily. PVC takes paint well for custom color options.
Once you choose a door style, use exterior-rated screws and hinges to mount them onto the front frame. Test opening and closing to ensure a good fit. Add weatherstripping along the edges to seal air gaps when closed.
Adding Drawers for Handy Storage
Including drawers in your outdoor kitchen design maximizes storage for utensils, spices, linens, and other essentials you want close at hand while cooking. Follow these tips for installing durable drawers:
- Use full-extension drawer glides rated for outdoor use to allow you to fully access the contents of deep drawers.
- Opt for stainless steel or aluminum for the drawer construction as these materials resist corrosion and require minimal maintenance.
- Avoid particle board or MDF drawers as humidity can cause them to swell and rot. Use moisture-resistant plywood instead.
- Add drawer compartments and dividers to organize cooking tools, cutlery, seasonings, and more.
- Install soft-closing mechanisms for a luxury feel and to prevent slamming drawers closed.
- Ensure drawers are level, open smoothly, and close flush with cabinet fronts by frequently testing the fit while building.
Take measurements carefully before cutting drawer pieces to size. A snug fit is important for weather resistance and appearance.
Installing Durable Countertops
The countertops tie your entire outdoor kitchen together and take the brunt of daily use. Use these moisture-resistant options:
Tile Countertops
Porcelain or ceramic outdoor tile is attractive, durable, and easy to clean. Choose textured tiles to prevent slipping. Make sure to seal the grout lines for water resistance.
Concrete Countertops
Poured and sealed concrete has a modern look and withstands heavy use. It can be polished smooth or left textured. Custom molds allow you to incorporate curves and embellishments.
Granite Countertops
Granite is naturally weather-resistant and adds beauty with its unique patterning. Opt for thicker slabs for better structural integrity. Granite requires annual sealing to prevent staining.
Stainless Steel Countertops
Stainless steel counters are seamless and incredibly durable with a sleek appearance. Select a gauge between 14-18 to prevent dents yet allow shaping. Join pieces with waterproof silicone.
Measure the exact counter dimensions to achieve a perfect custom fit. Secure the countertops to the cabinets using outdoor-rated caulk and brackets.
Installing Cabinet Hardware
The finishing touches like knobs, pulls, hinges, and locks give your DIY outdoor cabinets a polished, high-end look. Here are tips for choosing hardware:
- Opt for durable metals like stainless steel, brass, and powder coated aluminum that hold up to weather.
- Match finishes throughout the kitchen for a cohesive appearance. Oil rubbed bronze has rustic appeal.
- Choose larger hardware sizes in proportion to your cabinet and door dimensions for optimal aesthetics and functionality.
- Hardware with rubber sealing washers helps keep moisture from penetrating behind doors and drawers.
- Soft-close hinges prevent slammed doors and can be retrofitted onto standard hinges.
- For frequently accessed cabinets, install magnetic catches instead of latches for easy access.
Take accurate handle and hinge measurements before purchasing hardware. Test components prior to permanent installation to ensure they operate smoothly.
Weatherproofing and Sealing Techniques
The right weatherproofing is what sets outdoor kitchen cabinets apart from indoor cabinetry. Use these pro tips to help your cabinets stand up to the elements:
- Caulk around all joints and seams using exterior-grade silicone caulk without gaps. Smooth the caulk with a wet finger for a clean finish.
- Choose exterior wood glue when assembling cabinets to resist water. Regular PVA wood glue will fail.
- Use rust-resistant screws and fasteners rated for pressure treated lumber to avoid discoloration or corrosion.
- Paint or seal all sides and edges of the wood, not just exterior faces, for maximum water resistance.
- Add flashing above cabinets to prevent rain running down the wall from seeping behind.
- Install drip edges along the tops of doors and drawers to prevent rain collecting on flat surfaces.
- Add cabinet vents so air can circulate and reduce condensation and humidity buildup inside.
- Use protective surfaces like felt padding on cabinet bottoms to prevent moisture wicking up through concrete slabs.
Taking time to properly seal your cabinets makes them last for decades with minimal wear and tear. Maintain their finish yearly.
Final Installation of Built-In Cabinets
If constructing your cabinets in place, now is the time to permanently secure them. For the strongest attachment, follow these guidelines:
- Bolt wall cabinets through the cabinet back or sides into wall studs or use sturdy toggle bolts for drywall.
- Attach cabinets together by pre-drilling holes and using stainless steel bolts with a washer and nut.
- Use ledger boards anchored to the wall to provide a straight mounting surface for base cabinets to sit flush against.
- Shim any gaps before fastening to correct uneven spots. Use shims rated for damp locations.
- Level cabinets using the drawers and doors as reference. They should open and close smoothly once installed straight.
- Seal around the cabinets once in place using quality exterior caulk. Smooth the caulk bead with a wet finger.
Take your time during the installation process to ensure your cabinets function properly and have a refined finish. Rushed jobs often result in sloppy gaps, misalignment issues, and poorly operating drawers and doors down the road.
Maintaining and Protecting Your Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets
With proper care and maintenance, your custom outdoor kitchen cabinets can stay looking pristine for many years while withstanding heavy use. Here are some top tips:
- Inspect cabinets yearly for cracking, swelling, discoloration, or moisture damage and address issues right away before they worsen.
- Tighten any loose screws or hardware. Lubricate hinges and drawer slides as needed.
- Keep cabinet surfaces clean using only mild soap and water to prevent buildup and staining. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Re-coat wood cabinets every 1-2 years with exterior sealant to maintain water resistance and color.
- Cover your outdoor kitchen with a waterproof grill cover or cabinet shroud when not in use to minimize exposure.
- In climates with cold winters, fully empty and clean cabinets at the end of each season to prevent pests or mildew.
- Avoid letting water pool on flat cabinet surfaces. Wipe up spills immediately and use cabinet vents.
With diligent care and maintenance, your hand-built outdoor kitchen cabinets will stay beautiful and functional for decades of alfresco dining enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of wood is best for outdoor cabinets?
Teak and cedar are naturally weather-resistant solid woods ideal for outdoor cabinets. Pressure-treated pine is an affordable and durable option as well. Use exterior rated plywood for cabinet boxes.
Can you use regular wood for outdoor cabinets?
You can, but it will require much more maintenance to seal and protect it from moisture damage. Use marine-grade wood glue and exterior-rated finishes on all sides if not using a naturally weather-resistant wood species.
What should be avoided when building outdoor cabinets?
Avoid MDF, particle board, mineral-based paints, and regular wood glue since moisture breaks these products down quickly. Also skip decorative handles or hinges as these rust when exposed to rain and humidity.
Should outdoor cabinets be raised off the ground?
Yes, outdoor cabinets should be installed on platforms or feet to raise them at least 4-6 inches off the ground. This prevents water damage from puddles splashing and allows air circulation under the cabinets.
How much overhang is needed for outdoor cabinets?
An overhang of at least 12 inches is recommended to keep the undersides and interiors of outdoor cabinets protected from rain. Overhangs up to 3 feet deep are ideal for keeping cabinets fully shaded and dry.
Can you paint outdoor cabinets instead of using wood stain?
Yes, high quality exterior latex or oil-based paints are recommended for wood or metal outdoor cabinets to add color and water protection. Be sure to use paints formulated for outdoor use rather than standard indoor paints.
What kind of hinges should be used on outdoor kitchen cabinets?
Stainless steel hinges are best for outdoor cabinets. Choose hinges rated for outdoor use with a rubber gasket around the base to seal out moisture. Avoid less expensive zinc-plated steel hinges that will rust.
Should you seal around the edges of countertops?
Definitely seal around all countertop edges using a flexible, waterproof caulk or adhesive to prevent moisture ingress between the countertop and cabinets. This keeps swelling and delamination in check.
What is the most expensive material for outdoor cabinets?
Stainless steel is generally the most expensive option for outdoor cabinets. However, it is extremely durable for the cost. Teak wood is also pricey due to its high natural oil content and weather resistance.
How much does it cost to build outdoor kitchen cabinets?
The cost can range widely from $50 – $300 per square foot. The more premium materials like stainless steel or stone countertops drive up the total expense significantly compared to DIY wood cabinets. But they last for decades.
Conclusion
Creating your own outdoor kitchen cabinets allows you to customize every aspect while saving substantially on costs. By using weather-resistant materials and cabinet construction designed specifically for outdoor environments, your cabinets can withstand years of use in any climate. Pay close attention to properly sealing all seams and surfaces and maintain your finish yearly. With some carpentry skill and these tips, you can build an outdoor kitchen tailored to your needs that becomes a gathering spot for family and friends to make alfresco memories for years to come.