Uncovered vs. Covered Outdoor Kitchen: Which is Better?
Outdoor kitchens can be a great addition to just about any home — especially if you and your family enjoy having snacks or meals in the great outdoors! Outdoor kitchens also make it easier to host BBQs and get-togethers without having to go in and out of the house every five minutes to prepare and serve food. If you’re considering an outdoor kitchen for your home, you probably have a few important questions. First and foremost, should it be covered or uncovered? Which is better? Where can you find experts to help you design and build the perfect outdoor kitchen in Maryland?
In today’s guide, we will answer all of these questions and more, so let’s get started! And if you’re looking for quality uncovered or covered outdoor kitchens in Maryland, be sure to reach out to the experts at Custom Design & Build for help. In the meantime, continue reading to learn more about which option is better for your home!
The Differences Between an Uncovered and Covered Outdoor Kitchen
The biggest difference between an uncovered and covered outdoor kitchen can probably go without saying, but we’ll mention it anyway — one is covered, and the other isn’t! However, there are many different ways to “cover” an outdoor space, and these differences can also affect the functionality and types of things you can do with an outdoor kitchen. Here are a few of the most important differences to consider:
- Natural Light – While covered outdoor kitchens allow in some natural light, they certainly don’t permit as much natural light as an uncovered space. This could be an advantage or a disadvantage, depending on your preferences. If you want more shade from the hot sun, a covered outdoor kitchen is the superior option.
- Weather Protection – An uncovered outdoor kitchen gives you zero protection from bad weather, while a covered outdoor kitchen can — at the very least — give you a few minutes to pack things up without getting soaked if a sudden rainstorm starts. Depending on the degree of coverage, you may be able to continue enjoying the space and hosting events, even in inclement weather.
- Durability – Whether it’s a fallen tree or a heavy rainstorm, there are plenty of ways that a covered outdoor kitchen can help protect furniture and appliances from damage. This is perhaps one of the biggest advantages of covering your outdoor kitchen space, as it can help you maintain many elements of your kitchen without regular repair or replacement.
- Cost – Covered outdoor kitchens require more materials and labor. As a result, they are generally more expensive to build upfront. However, the enhanced protection they offer to your furniture and appliances could help justify the cost over the long term.
- Aesthetics—Uncovered and covered outdoor kitchens naturally have very different aesthetics. Your kitchen should be a natural extension of your home and yard, so it’s important to consider what you want the area to look like before you make a decision.
Should an Outdoor Kitchen Be Covered?
While each homeowner will need to decide for themselves, we generally think that covered outdoor kitchens are a good idea. They offer overhead coverage and protection from sunlight and inclement weather, which can help you stay more comfortable and help all the elements of your kitchen last longer, without the risk of constant damage from weather. You also have a lot of flexibility with how you choose to cover an outdoor kitchen — from enclosed patios and porch roofs to multi-level decks and wooden pergolas.
Get a Covered Outdoor Kitchen For Your Home
Are you trying to decide between a covered or an uncovered outdoor kitchen? Do you want to improve the aesthetics and curb appeal of your property? Are you looking for professionals who can design and build a covered outdoor kitchen for you? If so, we’re here to help. We have years of experience designing and installing outdoor kitchens for homeowners in Maryland.
Ready to add a covered outdoor kitchen to your home? Then you should call the professionals at Custom Design & Build. Reach out to our team today to learn more!