If you’re interested in adding an RTA outdoor kitchen to your backyard, but you are considering a move in the future… you’re likely wondering if you can bring your RTA grill island with you or not. (Or if it’s even worth it.)
Many customers have asked us this very question over the years, and you’re in the right place to find the answer.
In this article, you will learn if you can take an RTA outdoor kitchen with you when you move, and important things to consider about moving an RTA outdoor kitchen.
Can I Take an RTA Outdoor Kitchen with me When I Move?
Technically… yes. All of the components can be taken apart, moved to a new location, and be re-installed. However, in the case of our high-performance concrete outdoor kitchens, it’s something we generally do not advise. Read below for some of the reasons why.
What Should I Consider about Moving my RTA Outdoor Kitchen?
RTA Concrete Outdoor Kitchens Don’t Move Well
Unfortunately, RTA’s high-performance concrete outdoor kitchens simply don’t move well. Yes, all the components can be taken apart and transported… but for the average homeowner, it’s highly likely that something gets damaged in the transportation process. RTA outdoor kitchens are delivered in proprietary crates designed specifically for safe transport, and you won’t be able to re-package your outdoor kitchen in the same manner.
And when you get to your new location, you’ll have to re-drill the self tapping screws into a new spot in order to get the panels together. There’s only so many places where you can drill these holes, so if you run out of space… you’re out of luck.
Leaving Your Outdoor Kitchen Behind isn’t All Bad
RTA’s MOKs Line is More Move-Friendly
If being able to move your outdoor kitchen is a top priority, you may consider going with the MOKs line instead. While we still don’t recommend moving any RTA outdoor kitchens as a general rule… MOKs islands will be more amenable to the process.
MOKs islands don’t have any screws, and they rely on interlocking channels to keep the panels together. These HDPE panels are much lighter in weight and are less likely to get damaged in transit.
Don’t Forget Appliances
Don’t forget you also have to move the appliances! Depending on how large your appliances are, some of them can weigh in excess of 100lbs-200lbs+, which is not a small thing to move! You’ll also have to be careful not to damage your appliances in transport, as they will not have the benefit of the protective packaging they were originally shipped in.
You’ll Lose Warranty Coverage
If you move your RTA outdoor kitchen to a new location… it’s important to know that this will void your warranty. RTA outdoor kitchen warranties are only valid for the location to which the order was shipped. So once you move, you’re no longer covered.
Challenges of a New Location
While it may seem like a no-brainer to take your investment with you… it’s also worth considering the new space you plan to bring your RTA outdoor kitchen to.
Your original RTA outdoor kitchen was designed for a specific space. The backyard design you have in your original home is unique, and your island was likely designed to work within those specific parameters. Your new backyard will have an entirely different feel, and your existing RTA outdoor kitchen might not fit in this new space. So before you decide to move your RTA outdoor kitchen, think about if it will be practical in your new backyard or not.
If You Need to Move… Consider This
At this stage, you should know whether you can move an RTA outdoor kitchen and the considerations involved. As you’ve gathered, we’re not keen on the idea of moving an RTA outdoor kitchen and strongly recommend against it.
But there’s a silver lining. If you decide to leave your RTA outdoor kitchen behind, you can still recoup your initial investment… and possibly even more! This video about the ROI of an outdoor kitchen will help you understand how much of a return your outdoor kitchen can get you when it comes time to sell your home. In many cases, the ROI is high enough to pay for a new outdoor kitchen when you move. Just some food for thought!
Enjoy the video, and we’ll catch you in the next article.
