Unlike other parts of the United States, we don’t think twice about firing up the grill any season of the year. Enclosing your outdoor kitchen can make your time spent cooking for family and friends even more enjoyable. One reason is that a screen enclosure keeps fresh air flowing freely throughout the space. Flies and other insects, however, can’t get inside due to the finely woven screen. Imagine cooking and enjoying meals without that nuisance!
Some homeowners refrain from enclosing the outdoor kitchen for fear it may not be safe. However, as long as you install proper ventilation there shouldn’t be any problems. Another possible con to consider… briefly, anyway… includes your overall budget. The cost of enclosing your kitchen can vary greatly and depends on several factors.
They include:
- Size and location of your outdoor kitchen
- Which materials and features to use
- Considering whether or not there is any demolition
- Designing (if necessary)
- Building permits
Speaking of building permits, some local governments also have codes or ordinances against operating your grill under a screened enclosure. Local contractors in the area should be aware of proper building procedures but checking in with your city government yourself might be a good idea before you begin your project.
Pros on the other hand
We hit on the fact that enclosing your outdoor kitchen allows you to enjoy the space even more year-round. For instance, during the spring and summer, your new enclosure can provide you with a degree of ultraviolet (UV) protection. You won’t be fully shaded, of course, but it will make a noticeable difference.
Enclosures keep unwanted guests away too. Hopefully, you’ve never experienced finding a curled-up snake in your seat—or an alligator finding its way into your pool! Once you enclose your kitchen, it’s something you won’t ever have to worry about happening again.
Overall, your kitchen is going to stay cleaner. Moreover, mesh screen enclosures can capture pollen as well as dirt and debris which is a plus if you or someone in your family suffers from allergies. The screens are easy to clean using a bucket of sudsy water and a scrub brush. It’s a great project for the kids to tackle… just saying. The screens are very durable so if you have a power washer, you could break that out too.
Lastly, all new structures built in Florida must be constructed using hurricane-resistant materials able to withstand winds up to 130 miles an hour. Enclosing your kitchen will slow down the erosion caused by the salt that’s constantly in the air here too.
It’s like adding on
Outdoor kitchens are growing in popularity, and why not? We have the perfect climate for year-round use. And lots of people believe food tastes way better when cooked outdoors!
Remember to keep the grill away from being directly against the screen walls and you might want to plan ahead so you don’t have issues with smoke. Investing in a vented hood will whisk it away before it becomes a nuisance for anyone. Lastly, investing in an electric grill affords you the most peace of mind because they are the least likely to cause a fire when compared to charcoal or gas grills.
Enclosing your outdoor kitchen extends the floor plan because it’s viewed as an extension of your home. It affords your family and guests a greater sense of privacy which adds to feelings of contentment and relaxation. Couple these things with your great cooking and we’re positive that your new outdoor kitchen will become as popular to hang out in as the one indoors!
Bon appetit!