How to DIY Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets for Your Dream Backyard
Revamping your outdoor space may be easier (and more affordable) than you think
An outdoor kitchen is the perfect space for gathering with loved ones and taking your backyard BBQs to the next level. But creating a gorgeous entertaining space doesn’t have to break the bank. By building your own cabinets, you can reduce your outdoor kitchen cost and still get the space of your dreams. In this guide, we’ll review the different types of DIY outdoor kitchen cabinets and take you through the process of assembling them.
Ready-to-Assemble Kits vs. Build From Scratch
There are two main ways to DIY outdoor kitchen cabinets: building them from scratch or using a kit. Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinet kits come with everything you need to create your cabinets, including simple directions for assembly. Some kits are customizable, giving homeowners greater flexibility in terms of layout and design. Many kits, however, are pre-manufactured, so you’ll have less control over the finished design. Kits are ideal for beginner to moderate DIYers and those who want a simpler project.
If you are a DIY pro or want a completely custom outdoor space, you may be tempted to forgo the kit completely and build your cabinets from scratch. This method gives you total control over your project; you can personalize every aspect of it from layout to finishing touches. However, it’s much more complex and laborious than the ready-to-finish option. Unless you have the proper contracting experience, consider hiring a professional outdoor kitchen builder near you.
Ready-to Finish Kits vs. Ready-to-Assemble Cabinets
Homeowners can choose between ready-to-finish cabinet kits and ready-to-assemble outdoor kitchen sets. Both are great options for average DIY-ers. They supply you with all the components you need to complete your project and come with easy-to-follow instructions for installation. However, the two offer different levels of active work and customization.
Ready-to-finish (RTF) kits include all the components you’ll need to build the basic structure of your cabinets. You won’t need to worry about sourcing materials or building frames from scratch. These kits allow you to fully customize the layout, materials, and finishes of your cabinetry, too. We recommend this kit for those who want to tailor their outdoor kitchen to their space and aren’t afraid to take on a little more work. If you opt for a kit, follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely, which may be slightly different from the step-by-step below.
Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets make the daunting task of building an outdoor kitchen simple. These kits require less assembly and often come with pre-made appliance cutouts. Plus, the panels are pre-finished. This translates to less work, but it can also mean less personalization. RTA cabinets are available in a limited number of designs, offering less flexibility to personalize the layout and look of your new space. These kits are ideal for beginner DIY-ers and those who aren’t looking for a lengthy project.
Prepping to Install Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets
Building an outdoor kitchen requires a lot of prep work—--even when you’re using a kit. By the time you pick out your cabinets, you have already spent weeks browsing covered outdoor kitchen ideas, found a suitable location, measured your space, and chosen a design. Now you’re ready for the real work to begin!
Before your cabinets arrive, make sure you have a suitable base for your outdoor kitchen. This can be a pre-existing patio or deck or a newly poured concrete slab so long as the surface is level and capable of supporting the weight of your fixtures and appliances. You must install any essential utility lines, too. In general, you should always hire a professional plumber or electrician to run new plumbing, gas, and electrical lines.
Outdoor Kitchen Cabinet Materials
The material you choose for your outdoor kitchen cabinets plays a big role in their appearance and longevity. Manufacturers offer a variety of materials that can withstand the elements and complement the aesthetic of your outdoor space. Here are a few of the best options to consider, along with their pros and cons.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Customizable, durable | More susceptible to weather damage, requires more regular upkeep |
| Stone, concrete, and brick | Ultra-durable even in extreme weather conditions, stylish | May require professional installation, harder to repair and clean |
| High-density polyethylene (HDPE) | Easy to maintain, long-lasting | Color may fade in sun, susceptible to damage from high heat |
| Powder-coated aluminum | Doesn’t rust or corrode, simple to maintain | Conducts heat, vulnerable to damage |
| Polished stainless steel | Sleek, stylish, super durable | Becomes hot and reflective in sunlight, requires regular maintenance |
How to Install Cabinets Using a Kit
Ready-to-assemble cabinet kits come with assembly instructions, making it a fairly straightforward process. Here’s an overview of the steps you may need to complete to build your outdoor cabinets.
1. Prepare for Delivery
Plan to assemble your cabinets in the same area where your outdoor kitchen will be. The area should have ample space for unboxing, laying out all the pieces, and working. Keep in mind that DIY outdoor kitchen cabinet kits come with a lot of heavy pieces. You may want to enlist a friend or family member to help with the delivery. Clear the path to your assembly area so you can roll a furniture dolly to the space without obstacles.
2. Unpack and Check the Parts
Once your delivery arrives, start by unboxing all the components and laying them out in the assembly area. Check for missing pieces or damaged parts. Gather any additional tools and supplies you may need for assembly. You should also use this opportunity to read over the instruction booklet and safety information.
3. Assemble the Cabinets
Follow the detailed instructions included in the kit to assemble your cabinets. The specific steps will vary depending on the manufacturer and design. In general, you’ll begin by building the frame. Many kits come with premade cutouts for appliances and storage. Some, however, may require you to create your own (more on that later).
Next, attach the frames together. If you need to attach additional pieces, use clamps to hold them together while you connect them using a screwdriver or wrench. For some DIY cabinet kits, you may also be instructed to drill pilot holes and create bracing components.
Lastly, you’ll install the adjustable feet to ensure the cabinets are level. Throughout each step of the process, check that the surfaces are level and make any necessary adjustments as you go.
4. Create Appliance Cutouts (optional)
If your cabinets don’t come with premade cutouts, you’ll need to create them manually. Check your design plans and appliance cutout sheets for the dimensions and layout. Use a grinder with a masonry block to cut through cement board coverings. Depending on your countertop material, you must use non-combustible construction specs too.
5. Finish Surfaces
Depending on your DIY kit, you may need to install cladding to your cabinets. Cover the frame with weather-resistant material, like stone, brick, tile, or stucco. Apply the cladding according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In general, you should install the cladding starting at the bottom and working upward. Remember to leave enough clearance for appliances and cabinet doors.
6. Install Countertops
After the cladding has cured, you can install the countertops. You should follow the manufacturer’s directions for this as well. Make sure your cutouts are properly aligned before attaching counters with bolts or screws as instructed.
7. Add Hardware and Other Finishing Touches
Now you can add all of the finishing touches to your DIY outdoor kitchen cabinets. Place shelves in chosen positions, slide in drawers, and attach the doors. Remember to leave ample clearance for smooth and easy operation. Then you can install the handles or knobs. This is also a good time to attach anchors or anti-tip brackets to the wall or floor. Secure the cabinets and ensure they’re level and properly positioned before tightening the anchor components completely.
How to Build Cabinets From Scratch
The beginning of the project is the same as above: create a detailed design, build a floor space for the kitchen, and have rough-in utilities installed. From there, you can begin building your cabinets using the steps below.
1. Construct the Frame
You can build the frame using wood, metal, or concrete blocks. We recommend using wood as it’s the most DIY-friendly and doesn’t require specialized skills like welding (metal) or masonry (concrete blocks). Begin by cutting pressure-treated 2’ x 4’s with a circular saw to create your vertical studs, header, and footer pieces. Use a drill and deck screws to connect the pieces. Cut and attach cross supports for spacers.
2. Cover the Framework
You can use plywood or cement board to cover the frame. Cut the panels according to the dimensions of your frame. Attach the panels to the frame using exterior screws. Be sure to leave openings for cabinets, drawers, and appliances. Attach wire lath over the panels and trim it so it’s flush with the frame.
3. Install Cladding
Create a scratch coat and apply it over the lath using a trowel. Let it cure for about an hour, then score it using a notched trowel keeping the lines straight and parallel to the ground. Wait at least 24 hours for the mortar to cure. Spread mortar on the back of your cladding material, scrape off any excess, and set the piece by pushing it firmly onto the scratch coat. Start at the bottom and work your way up.
4. Install Countertops and Fixtures
Once the cladding is set, attach cabinet doors over the flanges of the cabinet boxes. Slide in any shelves or drawers. Install the countertops and any built-in appliances.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Adding an outdoor kitchen to your property can be an expensive project. On average, it costs $15,515, with normal prices ranging from $6,051 to $24,980. This price accounts for materials, appliances, permits, labor, and more. With a project as customizable as this, however, costs can range anywhere from $1,000 to $50,000 depending on the size, materials, appliances, and more.
By DIYing your outdoor kitchen, you can save around 20-40% on the total project costs. Homeowners save an average of $1,500 to $6,000 by forgoing a general contractor and option for the DIY route. However, you’ll still need to hire a professional plumber and electrician to run water, gas, and electrical lines. Consider working with an appliance installer to ensure all your new appliances are hooked up correctly, too.
Frequently Asked Questions
For outdoor kitchen cabinets, choose wood that is naturally more weather-resistant. Teak, Brazilian walnut, white oak, and mahogany are all excellent choices. Avoid pine, cedar, and other softwoods, as they are more susceptible to damage and catch fire quickly. No matter what type of wood you choose, you’ll need to apply sealants, oils, and stains regularly to protect your cabinets from harm.
Most professionally-manufactured outdoor cabinets are already weatherproof. Perform regular maintenance and cover your cabinets in the winter to provide even more protection. Wood cabinets are the most vulnerable to damage from weather, but you can prevent damage by applying a sealant or varnish. Reapply as needed based on recommendations for the type of wood and level of wear.
