Outdoor kitchens are a fabulous asset for entertaining and can enhance the beauty and value of your home, but in order to keep them looking and operating at their best, they need regular maintenance. In fact, they’ll need more than your regular kitchen because they are facing the elements all year long. This maintenance will pay off with years of beauty and problem-free operations. Let’s review some maintenance tasks you shouldn’t ignore.
Grill Maintenance
Your grill should be dismantled and inspected several times a year. Any rust should be promptly removed and the areas painted with a rust retardant paint. Check your burners and valves. If you’re getting a yellow flame instead of a blue one, disconnect your gas tank and check the connections for proper pressure.
Check hoses for any damage and inspect your tank as well. If it has any dents, cracks, rust or other signs of damage, it may need to be replaced. If you want to avoid the hassle of having to refill or switch out propane tanks and your home uses natural gas, it could be well worth the investment to get a dedicated gas line for it.
Seal Any Stone
If you invested in beautiful stone countertops or tables, they should be sealed every few years to protect them from UV light. This is a job best left to a professional, who knows exactly what your particular stone needs. Clean any spills immediately to avoid staining, but be sure to use gentle, non-abrasive cleaning products, or a product designed specifically for stone.
Floor and Facings Washing
Whether your floor and facings are stone, concrete or brick, they will benefit from a good power washing once a year. This will remove any grease, mildew or other substances that can mar the stone. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the least amount of pressure necessary to do the job.
Using too much pressure can damage some types of stone work. If you’re unsure, contact the company you got yours from for advice. To avoid staining once they’re washed, remove grass clippings and other debris promptly.
Keep Appliances Clean
If you have appliances like a refrigerator, clean it thoroughly before the season starts, again before you close up for the winter, and occasionally throughout the summer. Do the same for burners, sinks and other areas to avoid attracting insects or rodents.
Test your fridge at the beginning of each season to be sure it is still maintaining proper temperatures for food safety. Polish stainless steel regularly to protect it and always go with the grain. Don’t use abrasive cleaners as you could dull the finish and in some cases, invite rust.
Floor Care
At the beginning of each season, once the last snow has melted, check your floor and walkways carefully for any signs of cracks, frost heave or other damage. If you find any, repair promptly as they present a serious trip and fall hazard. If you find roots coming through your floor or walkways, consult a tree surgeon or landscaper for advice.
Don’t try to remove yourself as it could cause even more problems but get it taken care of promptly as the roots can cause serious damage to your floors, pipes and even your foundation.
An outdoor kitchen is a luxury indeed, and one that needs special care to keep looking and operating at it’s best. Always inspect your grill regularly and keep it clean. The same is true for any burners or stove tops you may have.
Cleaning your grill is not too much of a chore if you remember to do it while it’s still warm, and cleaning your floors and countertops should be quick work as long as you have the right tools. Remember that regular maintenance not only keeps your outdoor kitchen looking great, but it also keeps it operating safely.