Diy Outdoor Kitchen: Build with Cement Blocks

Pixel-perfect outdoor living spaces often include, among other features, a well-designed and functional DIY outdoor kitchen. Building one using cement blocks is not only economical but also a straightforward do-it-yourself project that can dramatically enhance your backyard experience. With a little planning, the right tools, and these straightforward steps, you too can create an amazing outdoor kitchen to enjoy with friends and family.

Cement blocks, or concrete blocks, are an excellent choice for a DIY structurally-sound outdoor kitchen due to their durability, low cost, and versatility. They come in various sizes, styles, and colors, allowing you to customize your design to fit your backyard aesthetic. Moreover, they offer high heat resistance, making them perfect for housing grills, pizza ovens, and other heat-generating appliances.

The Design Process

Before diving into the construction process, it's crucial to plan your outdoor kitchen layout. Consider your space, budget, and the type of cooking you'll be doing. Sketch out your design, including seating areas, countertops, and appliance placements.

Next, gather your materials. Apart from cement blocks, you'll need mortar, gravel, cement block nails, rebar, and sundry items such as trowels, shovels, and safety gear. Remember to buy extra blocks to account for breakage during construction.

Choosing the Right Blocks

Standard concrete blocks come in sizes ranging from 4 to 12 inches. For outdoor kitchens, larger sizes (like the 12-inch) are preferable as they provide more internal space for insulation and therapeutic purposes. You might also consider using innovative block types like celui-blocks or caleffi blocks, designed specifically for building ovens and barbecues.

Additionally, consider using fire-resistant blocks if you're planning a high-heat area. These blocks, typically made of clay or fire clay, can withstand temperatures up to 3000°F, providing an extra layer of safety for your DIY project.

Preparing the Site

Begin by clearing the building site and marking out your kitchen's footprint. Ensure the ground is level, stable, and not too close to your home or other flammable structures. Lay a foundation using gravel and sand to provide a stable base and facilitate drainage.

Before laying the first course of blocks, apply a layer of mortar onto the foundation. This prevents moisture from seeping into the blocks and helps maintain a strong bond. Also, ensure to use a straight edge to keep the mortar level.

Constructing the Outdoor Kitchen

Start building your outdoor kitchen by laying the first course of blocks. Ensure they're level and aligned with one another. Use a spirit level to check the alignment and a rubber mallet to tap any blocks that are slightly out of line.

Apply a layer of mortar on top of the first course, then lay the second course with half blocks (cut blocks) to create a staggered pattern. This improves the overall structure's strength and stability. Continue laying courses, using half blocks to stagger each row.

Incorporating Rebar for Strength

Every several courses (every 3-4 feet), insert galvanized rebar through the block holes. This reinforces the structure and helps prevent cracking. Ensure the rebar goes at least 6 inches into the mortar bed below.

After inserting the rebar, fill the holes with fresh mortar to keep the rebar in place and prevent water from penetrating. Additionally, apply mortar to the top of each course to bond the next layer securely.

Constructing the Barbeque and Oven Areas

When you reach the desired height for your grill or oven, install a steel shelf or angle iron to support the weight of your appliances. Ensure this is done before laying any further courses to avoid damage to the supporting structure.

Before installing the appliances, it's a good idea to leave the openings for the grill and oven unfilled. This allows for easier installation and ensures your appliances fit correctly. Once the appliances are installed, you can fill any gaps around them with fire-resistant mortar.

Finishing Touches

Don't forget to seal your cement block surfaces with a water-repellent sealant. This helps protect your outdoor kitchen from the elements and extends its lifespan. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

With your DIY outdoor kitchen now complete, it's time to fire up the grill, invite some friends over, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, building an outdoor kitchen with cement blocks is a rewarding project that adds value to your home and enhances your outdoor living experience.