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OUTDOOR KITCHENSIndustry reference CHECKLIST

Image courtesy of Sublime Architectural Interiors

INTRODUCTION

Disclaimer: This industry reference checklist has been developed from HIA member feedback and industry experience and as such, it is a reference point only and is not intended as a construction manual of any kind. HIA welcomes feedback over time of other issues that may warrant inclusion in this Checklist.


Image courtesy of Limetree Alfresco

This document has been developed by HIA with the contribution of our industry professionals to provide a practical checklist to assist industry in the designing, specifying products, constructing and installating outdoor kitchen spaces for homes in Australia.

In recent years, a number of issues have emerged and been reported by HIA members regarding the design, supply, construction and installation of outdoor kitchens. The purpose of this industry Checklist is to assist HIA members to highlight potential issues in the wear and performance of outdoor kitchens that can often be easily avoided if addressed at the planning stage.

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WHAT IS AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN? OUTDOOR KITCHENS

Industry reference CHECKLIST


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There is no simple or single definition of an outdoor kitchen. It can broadly range from a basic BBQ area located outdoors to a fully operative self-contained kitchen and food preparation area under the roofline of the home but outside the external walls of the home.

An outdoor kitchen is usually:

– an assigned cooking space which is placed in an unenclosed outdoor area;

– protected from direct weather by a roof, either within the main roofline of the home or as a permanent awning of some type;

– a defined area open on at least two sides, and therefore,

– would be exposed to the elements in varying degrees.

An outdoor kitchen that is designed within an essentially enclosed area, i.e. walls on 3 sides is likely to be treated as a room of the home and is likely to be subject to the normal requirements of kitchen design and installation. The local authority will generally be responsbile for determining whether the area is defined as part of the house or part of the outdoor area.

Regardless of location and design, an outdoor kitchen will generally require approval from the local authority either as part of the new home approval or as a renovation or addition to the home. The requirements for approval to construct an outdoor kitchen are not intended to be addressed in this Checklist and should be the subject of separate inquiry before work commences.

CONTENTS 1.

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1. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS 5– Location

– Aspect

– Exposure

2. BUDGET 8

– Scope and Inclusions

3. FUNCTION & DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS 9– Required elements

– Layouts and Space

– Storage needs

– Services and Utilities

4. PRODUCT & MATERIAL SELECTIONS 12– Products and Materials

– Appliances

– Fixtures & fittings

– Manufacturer Warranties

5. INDUSTRY FEEDBACK 16

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There are a number of environmental considerations to take into account when planning an outdoor kitchen. For a new home, having input into the location of the proposed outdoor kitchen area will depend on whether you are involved in the early stages of the project or not. Alternatively, outdoor kitchens that are part of a renovation or addition for an existing home will generally involve the client from the beginning of the process.

Full knowledge of the aspect and potential exposure to various environmental elements is an important consideration when planning and specifying products that are ‘fit for purpose’ in an outdoor environment such as an outdoor kitchen.

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K 1. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

POTENTIAL ISSUES | REDUCING RISKS

LOCATION:

1. When doing the site measure and quote check the location of the proposed area in relation to the home itself considering:

– firstly the aspect and exposure,

– the ease of access to the area, and

– the outlook.

Is this the best location for the outdoor kitchen?

> Document and sketch a diagram of the area and dimensions - on site inspection.

> If proposed location is not ideal, is there an option to suggest moving the area for a better outcome and reduce potential environmental issues arising?

> Arrange to meet the client onsite to facilitate discussions and a clear understanding of space.

2. Check if the assigned area has some protection from the elements e.g. is there roofing in place or to be installed? Note locations of walls. Space overleaf to sketch outdoor area.

> Roof: what type of protection will the area have?

> Walls: location of existing walls, windows and doors?

3. Check the location of existing services and utilities from the existing house.

> Check if there will be any shared services and accessibility to the proposed outdoor area.

Check whether any local council requirements for the works being undertaken will apply.


OUTDOOR KITCHENS

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OUTDOOR KITCHENS Industry reference CHECKLIST

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K 1. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS


ASPECT:

1. Check the direct sunlight and likely UV radiation - consider the extent and duration of the exposure, for example:

– The time of day the area is exposed to the sun and the shade requirements for users;

– Does the area get full or partial sun, and the duration of exposure during different seasons.

> Potential fading, discolouration and warping of materials, appliances, fixtures & fittings;

> Sun exposure will affect functionality of some appliances: e.g. refrigerators and wine coolers;

> Consider the comfort of users and general usability of the area if shade cover is insufficient.

2. Check potential issues relating to close proximity to coastline - salt and sea air exposure, and climates with high humidity levels.

> Exposure to salt air can cause corrosion and mineral deposits to materials, surfaces and appliances, and

> Rust and calcium deposits to metal components and surfaces;

> Condensation on surfaces including floor area – consider using slip-resistent flooring materials.

3. Check requirements for insect protection in areas of high risk for mosquito and blow-fly invasion.

> Insect invasion can render outdoor food preparation and entertaining areas unuseable - consider retractable screens if in high risk areas.

Check Manufacturer Warranties on all Products and council restrictions on enclosing an outdoor area.

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SKETCH AREA OF OUTDOOR KITCHEN: –Aspect and Proximity to house

–Note location of any walls / roofing

–Location of any windows / doors

–Note measurements of area

–Note location of existing services

–Take photos on site.


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K 2. BUDGET CONSIDERATIONS POTENTIAL ISSUES | REDUCING RISKS

1. What is the scope of the project, for example:

– will the client be supplying their own appliances e.g. the BBQ?

– Will you be responsible for project managing the entire works and other trades?

> The scope of the works agreed upon should be clearly defined in a contract between the parties.

> The total costs and a payment schedule to be included in the contract.

> Ensure the inclusions are clearly defined in a specification list attached to the contract.

2. Will the outdoor kitchen be used daily, weekly, occasionally?

> Requirements may vary with the frequency of use.

3. Consider requirements for installation or extenison of existing services such as gas, water, stormwater or sewer lines to the outdoor area.

> Obtain quotes if required as cost of services can have a large impact on the project cost. For example, are both hot and cold water required?

4. Do they desire to use the area in all seasons? > Heating, cooling, fans, protection screening from seasonal winds etc. will have an impact on final costs.

5. What types of cooking options are required? > Allow for additional power and gas points to service appliances.

6. What are the appliance requirements? Notes:

7. What is the client’s wish list – what can be compromised and what is non-negotiable?

8. Do product warranties carry value in the client’s decision?

The budget for the outdoor kitchen area must be determined at the outset as often specifying a higher grade or quality of products and materials more suitable for outdoor use will drive the costs up substantially. Some commercial grade products and appliances have been recommended by industry as being longer-lasting and recommended outdoors however, these are often cost-prohibitive for many consumers.

When specifying products for a limited budget, consumers must be advised of the potential shorter life-span on products chosen which are not warranted, or have a limited warranty for use in outdoor applications.

All inclusions should be clearly listed in a specification attached to contract documentation.

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OUTDOOR KITCHENS 3.

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There are a number of considerations to take into account when designing an outdoor kitchen to ensure it meets the client brief and serves its intended purpose, function and performance. Ensuring that the design is asthetically pleasing and compliments the existing home is also an important consideration.

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K 3. FUNCTION & DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS


FUNCTION:

Determine the function, requirements and scope of the proposed outdoor space, for example:

1. Check if the proposed outdoor kitchen needs to be:

– fully operative and self-contained

– include food preparation facilities

– include outdoor dining and/or entertaining area?

> What are the required elements, inclusions and appliances to ensure the required function can be included:

– Type of cooking facilities

– Appliance requirements

– Storage requirements

– Entertainment systems etc.

2. Or, is the proposed area intended to accommodate a more basic facility e.g. a BBQ unit for cooking outdoors and perhaps a seating/alfresco area?

NB. This may require more than one meeting with the clients onsite to walkthrough proposed layout.

Check - are all of these items ‘fit for purpose’ for outdoor application and can they be installed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions?

Check Manufacturer Warranties for all Products, Materials, Surfaces, Appliances, Fixtures and Fittings.


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Image courtesy of Designer Kitchens

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ECK 3. FUNCTION & DESIGN

CONSIDERATIONSPOTENTIAL ISSUES | REDUCING RISKS

DESIGN:

1. Layout and Space:

– Check and allow for sufficient clear and uninterrupted space for walkways and movement;

– Allow space for food preparation, cooking and serving functions;

– Consider space allocation for seating / dining;

– Design for the best placement for BBQ units and cooking appliances within the layout by considering:

• the clearances from other surfaces;

• ventilation to the area for the effective extraction of smoke and fumes;

– Keep other appliances such as refrigerators and coolers away from direct sunlight and heated/heating appliances.

> Traffic flow around kitchen area and indoor-outdoor flow and ease-of-access;

> Include a benchtop preparation area and landing space around various appliances;

> Allow sufficent space for pulling chairs out without blocking walkways;

> Heat from a BBQ is extreme, far hotter than an indoor oven or hotplate – Specify correct use of materials for the surrounding surfaces to ensure they are able to withstand high temperatures;

> Ensure extraction systems are powered to cope with the size and width of the BBQ unit or cooking surface;

> Avoid placing BBQs and cooking units close to the entry to the internal home – opening doors and windows can draw smoke and fumes into the home;

> Consider placing refrigeration units closest to the exterior walls of the home for protection from direct sunlight – may also assist to control condensation with temperature changes.

2. Storage:

– Check user requirements for outdoor utensils and food storage requirements;

– Allow for rubbish disposal & recycling facilities.

> Ensure sealed storage and disposal units for protection from insects and rodents.


Image courtesy of Enigma Architectural Design

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OUTDOOR KITCHENSCH

ECK 3. FUNCTION & DESIGN

CONSIDERATIONSPOTENTIAL ISSUES | REDUCING RISKS

DESIGN CONTINUED:

3. Services & Utilities

Lighting Power, Plumbing & Gas:

> Firstly check the location of all existing services, for new connections, and any excavation work required.

– Lighting – Is a lighting plan required?

Consider:

• adequate task and ambient lighting for the workspace;

• feature lighting to create a more welcoming entertainment area;

• Outlook and garden surrounds – will these be feature-lit to compliment the space?

> Is sensor lighting required for approach to the area? Are lights switchable from both inside and outside the home?

> Is there a dimmer for adjusting bright lighting when required?

> All lighting and electrical fixtures and fittings must be suitable for outdoor use.

– Is there a requirement for plumbing and a sink? If so are both hot & cold water required?

Check location of drainage/waste.

> Obtain existing drainage diagram and electrical wiring plans and metre box location for existing homes;

> One of the biggest obstacles can be connecting to the waste for sinks – often for a renovation project this can be cost prohibitive for the client.

– Where will power outlets be required within the layout? – consider the location of:

• Cooking appliances requiring power and gas connections

• Refrigeration units

• Entertainment systems

• Extraction units

• Heating units

• Overhead ceiling fans

• Any other items requiring power?

> Check connection for gas - Natural Gas or LPG? If Natural gas, identify location of outlet and potential connection requirements to appliances. If LPG check manufacturers instructions for placement of appliances and tank storage.

Check local service agency requirements for service connections prior to works being undertaken.

Ensure all plumbing, gas-fitting and electrical wiring, connections and installation work is carried out by licensed trades.

Check Manufacturer Warranties for all Products, Materials, Surfaces, Appliances, Fixtures and Fittings.


Notes:

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All Materials and Products must be checked for their suitability for exposure to UV rays, moisture, excessive heat and salt air.

Check Manufacturer’s specifications and warranties for:

> Suitability for outdoor application

> UV resistance and stability

> Colour-fastness of product

> Heat resistance

> Moisture resistance.

BENCHTOPS & CABINETRY:

1. Is the product recommended for outdoor application? > A number of benchtop materials are not recommended for surrounds to BBQ units – and warranites can be voided;

2. Some benchtop materials (such as various engineered stones), may fade in direct sunlight and some may be too porous for use outdoors.

> Some solid surface benchtop materials will come with extended warranty periods for UV resistance and colour-fading;

> Similarly there are new compact benchtop surfaces emerging on the market which are manufactured specifically for outdoor use;

> Stainless steel is always popular favourite with consumers as are natural stones such as granite when correctly sealed;

3. Always consider the potential heat transference from BBQs to surrounding materials – both vertical and horizontal surfaces early in the planning stages.

> Extreme heat is a fire hazard in close proximity to unshielded combustible materials;

Any products, materials, cabinetry, appliances, fixtures, fittings, components and so on, need to be specified for their application, i.e. they are ‘fit for purpose’ to be used in an outdoor application and environment? One of the biggest issues being reported by industry is the failure of products in outdoor kitchens due to being used in a position that is not suitable.

Manufacturers’ specifications and warranties should be carefully checked for this purpose.

Consider all environmental hazards such as UV exposure, sunlight and heat transference, wind, rain, humidity and salt air environments as covered in Checklist 1 – Environmental considerations.

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Note on Warranties when specifying products – Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for outdoor use and manufacturer’s instructions for correct installation. Incorrect placement or methods of installation could lead to failure of the product and voiding of warranties (where they exist).

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BENCHTOPS & CABINETRY CONTINUED:

4. BBQ units generate extreme heat and surrounding surfaces must be of non-combustible material or heat shielded on suitable fire-rated board.

> Porous benchtop materials will stain making them unsuitable around heavy BBQ grease;

5. Board materials are suseptible to expansion and contraction in direct sunlight. They are also suseptible to moisture ingress.

> For cabinetry, look for good quality PVC board that is 100% moisture resistant;

6. Consider splashbacks in meal preparation areas. > Ensure splashback surfaces have suitable substrates and heat tempered surface materials;

7. Doors and drawer-fronts and decorative materials look for those recommended for outdoor environments.

> Consider the range of compact laminates, aluminium framed doors with cast acrylic inserts and solid cast acrylic doors.

APPLIANCES:

An array of appliances can be requested for inclusion in outdoor kitchens depending on the clients’ lifestyle and wishlist. All appliances must be considered for their suitability for outdoor use.

Ensure all plumbing, drainage, gas-fitting and gas connections are carried out by a licensed plumber and gas-fitter and all electrical wiring and electrical connections are carried out by a licensed electrician.

1. Barbeque – (usually hooded with grill and plate facilities) are most often desired. Ensure the BBQ size and functionality of the unit suits the client’s requirements.

> Ensure quality safety valves are fitted on all gas BBQs and bottled LPG gas supplies.

> Check manufacturer’s specifications, instructions and clearances for installation of all appliances.


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Image courtesy of Art of Kitchens

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APPLIANCES CONTINUED:

2. Extraction system - outdoor rangehood – Must have sufficient output to cope with barbeque heat and smoke to maintain comfort and air-quality in the outdoor area.

– An alfresco barbecue rangehood has to deal with the extreme heat, grease and smoke a barbecue generates.

– If the outdoor kitchen is covered with a ceiling of any sort (usually the case) it will need the protection of an effective extraction system.

> The ventilation of outdoor kitchens is a critical element and where gas appliances are proposed, the relevant gas regulations must be met.

> Indoor rangehoods are not suitable outdoors as:

– they are not powerful enough to extract BBQ heat, smoke, grease;

– they have plastic components that may melt at high temperatures;

– indoor rangehood filters will not cope and will clog up very quickly, heavier duty baffles are required.

> Commercial and semi-commercial style higher performance rangehoods are more expensive but designed to deal with the high heat, grease and smoke generated.

3. Refrigerators:

– Check manufacturer’s specification carefully for its suitability for outdoor use;

– Where clients wish to provide their own appliances already purchased ensure they are aware that an indoor fridge will not be as energy efficient outdoors due to temperature variances and are not likely to be warranted for outdoor use.

– Refrigerators should not be placed where they will be exposed to direct sunlight.

> Some refrigerators will have an ‘IP rating’ (electrical rating for moisture exposure) This will need to be considered in the selection process;

> A glass-door bar or wine fridge must be kept away from direct sunlight. They can work quite well in shaded or ambient areas at temperatures up to 42 degrees. But a little afternoon sun will send the fridge temperature skyrocketing and ruin everything inside.

4. Wine fridge | Ice-making units – as above > Design the layout of the space to place fridge units in a position closest to or against the internal walls, usually farthest away from direct sunlight.

5. Sinks:

– Stainless steel sink with drain board

– Integrated sinks

> Some solid surface benchtops can have integrated sinks incorporated for a more streamline design.

6. Pizza Ovens:

– Whether wood fired or gas fired, these will produce a high heat transference. Consider clearances and suitable surrounding materials.

– Carefully consider oven placement for ventilation.

> Always specify suitable surrounds for ovens - fire resistant materials which are able to withstand high temperatures – e.g. block or brick for built-in pizza ovens;

> Extraction is required in enclosed areas, most oven units will include a chimney vent.

7. Grills, Teppanyaki plates & Wok burners:

– Typically gas but can be electric usually situated in proximity to BBQ cooking units.

> Open grills, plates and wok burners will also require effective ventiliation to extract the smoke and fumes from the alfresco area.

8. Fireplace or heating units:

– Check suitability for semi-enclosed areas.

> Ventilation is a must with gas patio heaters.


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APPLIANCES CONTINUED:

9. Other Appliances for alfresco areas:

– Dishwashers

– Coffee machines & Beverage centres

– Television and Sound Systems:

> Look for the new Alfresco dishwashers purpose-built for outdoor use.

> Recommended that sound systems and televisions be built into cabinetry behind doors for protection against moisture.

10. Kitchen Hardware Components

– drawer systems

– runners, hinges

– push close mechanisms

– handles, door hardware

– other components

> Hard to find in the market and cost prohibitive are the marine grade stainless steel hinges, components, drawer runners. Most hardware companies cannot warrant their hardware products for outdoors. Surface rust and corrosion are likely particularly near sea air.

> Lifespan can be increased by wiping over regularly and caring for products - educate your clients on this so they know the risks.

Carefully Check Manufacturer Warranties on all Appliances and Hardware components.

WARRANTIES ON PRODUCTS:

1. When specifying products – Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for outdoor use and manufacturer’s instructions for correct installation.

Check and document Manufacturer’s Warranties on all products including:

> Suitability for outdoor application

> UV resistance and stability

> Colour-fastness of product

> Heat resistance

> Moisture resistance.

2. Incorrect methods of installation could lead to failure of the product and voiding of warranties (where they exist).

3. Clearly document and ensure clients are aware and understand the products and appliances which do not carry a manufacturer’s warranty (or a limited warranty) for use in outdoor applications.

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Image courtesy of TAK Acquisitions

This document has been developed by industry, for industry, to provide a practical reference checklist for those invovled in the design, construction and installation of outdoor kitchen spaces for residential homes in Australia. This Industry Reference Checklist will remain as a work-in-progress to be updated as and when new information becomes available through continued industry collaboration.

Feedback and comment on this Checklist is welcomed and encouraged, email HIA: k&[email protected]

NOTES:

INDUSTRY FEEDBACK 5. OUTDOOR KITCHENSIndustry reference CHECKLIST


Disclaimer: This industry reference checklist has been developed from HIA member feedback and industry experience and as such, it is a reference point only and is not intended as a construction manual of any kind.

outdoor kitchens - yellowpages.com · outdoor kitchens that are part of a renovation or addition...

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