As it currently stands, building an outdoor kitchen with a frame system is the most popular construction method. It’s relatively affordable, highly customizable, and most local contractors can put one together.
But as with anything… there’s pros and cons. There are things framed outdoor kitchen systems get right, and other things they get wrong. As an outdoor kitchen manufacturer that sells islands made without a traditional frame system, our perspective on the topic may come off as inherently biased. Ultimately, what we care most about is making sure you get the outdoor kitchen of your dreams… whether you work with RTA Outdoor Living or not. So in this article, you will be presented with only the facts, so you can make the final decision on your own.
In this article, you will learn about what outdoor kitchen frame builds get right, what they get wrong, and whether or not it’s the right choice for your project.
What do Outdoor Kitchen Frame Builds Get Right?
There are three things that outdoor kitchen frame builds get right: full customization potential, fairly affordable, and can do well in certain climates.
- Full Customization Potential: Unlike prefabricated or modular outdoor kitchens you can purchase at a big box store or online, metal framed outdoor kitchens offer full customization potential. There’s no limitation on the layout, appliance options, and finish options. The only limitation is the skill of the contractor you choose to hire for the build.
- Fairly Affordable: Although not as cheap as off-the-shelf options… if you want a full custom outdoor kitchen, metal framed builds are often the most affordable method.
- Can do Well in Certain Climates: In most climates, metal framed outdoor kitchens aren’t the most durable option. This is because temperature fluctuation and moisture absorption may wreak havoc on the finish, cement board, and metal framed interior. However, if you live in a dry and arid climate like Arizona or Nevada… humidity and moisture generally isn’t a concern. In this scenario, a metal framed outdoor kitchen can fare well.
What do Outdoor Kitchen Frame Builds Get Wrong?
Issues with outdoor kitchen frame builds include susceptibility to rust and corrosion, susceptibility to water damage, and prone to structural and finish failures.
- Susceptibility to Rust and Corrosion: As mentioned above, metal framed outdoor kitchens tend to perform poorly in most climates. This is primarily due to temperature fluctuations and exposure to moisture. The layers of a metal framed outdoor kitchen aren’t perfectly sealed, and eventually, will become weather-worn. Once this occurs, moisture is allowed to penetrate into the interior of the island. Over time, this exposure can lead to the rusting and corrosion of the metal frames.
- Susceptibility to Water Damage: Again, metal framed outdoor kitchens are susceptible to water damage. Cement board serves as the primary surface layer, but it is susceptible to water damage… especially if it is in contact with the ground, where moisture can be wicked up. Soggy cement board is not a good structural material!
- Prone to Structural and Finish Failures: For the reasons mentioned previously, weather-related damage puts metal framed outdoor kitchens at risk of structural and finish failures. When left unchecked long enough, rusted or corroded frames can lead to a collapse… and water damage often leads to cracked finishes that need consistent repairs.
Is an Outdoor Kitchen Frame Build Right for You?
Now that you understand what outdoor kitchen frame builds get right and wrong… it’s time to decide: is an outdoor kitchen frame build right for you?
A metal framed outdoor kitchen may be right for you if:
- You live in a dry, arid climate
- You want a customized outdoor kitchen, but can’t afford a more expensive option
- You want full customization potential with layout options, appliance brands, and finish choices
You may want to consider another build option if:
- You live in a harsh climate with high humidity and/or a lot of precipitation
- You have the budget to spring for more durable materials
- You don’t want to worry about consistent repairs or maintenance
Feeling like you may want to consider all your options before settling on a metal framed system? This article about how to build a long-lasting outdoor kitchen will help you understand the longevity difference between material choices… so you can ensure you’ve made the right decision for your space.
