A Concrete Outdoor Kitchen: Pros and Cons

Outdoor living is gaining popularity, and it's not hard to see why. What could be better than enjoying a delightful summer evening outdoors? With a good glass of wine, pleasant company, and delicious food, the evening passes by effortlessly. The increased attention to outdoor living is also reflected in the extensive range of products available for this purpose. Whether you desire a generous lounge set, a fire table, or a complete wellness setup, the options are plentiful.

In the realm of outdoor cooking and kitchens, the choices are abundant as well. Outdoor kitchens come in various qualities and materials – from robust standard sizes to refined custom designs and everything in between. Many of these outdoor kitchens offer a diverse collection of accessories. From the versatile Big Green Egg to the sophisticated Beefeater barbecues, as well as sinks, refrigerators, etc. All designed for long summer evenings and an optimal outdoor living experience.

Written by

Christiaan Morren

Outdoor kitchens are available in a wide range of qualities and materials

CHRISTIAAN MORREN

The Concrete Outdoor Kitchen

The concrete outdoor kitchen is highly popular, primarily due to its robust appearance and versatility in combining with other materials. Broadly speaking, there are two versions: an outdoor kitchen entirely made of concrete or an outdoor kitchen made of steel or wood with a concrete countertop. The first can be placed entirely outdoors, while the second variant should be positioned under a porch or covered structure.

Concrete is available in two colors: light gray and anthracite gray. Light gray concrete (the well-known and original concrete color) exudes a rugged charm. The anthracite color, in addition to being robust, also carries an elegant touch.

The Advantages

Concrete has several advantages when used in an outdoor kitchen. Firstly, for enthusiasts of a modern industrial style, it becomes a true centerpiece in the garden. Moreover, it complements any garden style. The rustic natural color of the material makes it a versatile element in landscape design.

Furthermore, concrete is well-suited to withstand outdoor conditions throughout the entire year. The material can endure heat and cold, as well as rain and wind. Finally, a concrete outdoor kitchen is often economically attractive. In summary, a concrete outdoor kitchen is a wise choice considering both appearance and price.

The Drawbacks

Unfortunately, concrete in outdoor kitchens comes with its share of drawbacks. While it is aesthetically pleasing and adds beauty to your outdoor kitchen, its practical use and maintenance often fall short. Concrete is a porous material, meaning it has an open structure that makes it susceptible to weathering. Especially in the fall and winter, the surface may turn green, and cleaning becomes challenging. Liquids easily penetrate the surface, causing stains and making the surface feel greasy over time.

Furthermore, a concrete countertop or an entire concrete outdoor kitchen is only available in substantial thicknesses. This characteristic makes a concrete outdoor kitchen always appear robust and, at times, bulky. This is in contrast to many other materials that are available in more refined thicknesses.

Lastly, the lack of refinement in concrete is also evident in the finishing of outdoor kitchens. This is noticeable in the joints between individual concrete parts, creating gaps where dirt, particularly in the countertop, accumulates and is difficult to clean.

The Aesthetics of Concrete, Yet Practical?

Combining the best of both worlds is what we have achieved with our collection of ceramic countertops for outdoor kitchens. These ceramic surfaces come in a wide range of colors and patterns, including an extensive collection of concrete looks. True to the natural appearance and easy to maintain with just a damp cloth.

What is ceramic?

Ceramic has an extremely closed structure and is UV and scratch-resistant. Ceramic simulates the formation of stone through advanced technology. By compressing ceramic under high pressure, the most closed surface is created for countertops. If, for example, a glass of wine is spilled, you can easily wipe the ceramic outdoor kitchen clean with a cloth. And after the winter, it's a breeze to put it back into use.

Our Top 5 Tips for Installing an Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor cooking, conviviality, and enjoyment with family and friends—it's all possible with an outdoor kitchen. However, the purchase of a beautiful outdoor kitchen involves various considerations. That's why we're sharing our top 5 tips for installing an outdoor kitchen.

The 4 Must-Have Accessories for Your Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen is a delightful extension of your indoor kitchen – the most relaxing space in your home that guarantees hours of cooking and outdoor living enjoyment. To complete your outdoor kitchen, COOXS offers essential accessories. Here are the 4 must-have accessories for your COOXS outdoor kitchen!