Summer is the time for backyard BBQs, pool parties, and spending time outdoors with family and friends.
If you’re thinking about taking your outdoor entertaining to the next level with an outdoor kitchen, you’re not alone.
A National Kitchen & Bath Association study found that 78% of homeowners would like to have an outdoor kitchen.
One important factor in choosing to add an outdoor kitchen is the climate in your area.
Homes in warmer climates can get more use out of an outdoor kitchen than homes in colder climates.
However, no matter where you live, there are things you can do to make your outdoor kitchen usable year-round. adding a fireplace, heater lamps, or a pergola with fabric panels are all great ways to extend the use of your outdoor kitchen into the cooler months.
If you’ve decided that an outdoor kitchen is right for you, the next step is finding the right contractor to help bring your vision to life.
Here are a few tips on how to choose the best contractor for your needs…
1)) Set A Budget
Before meeting with contractors, it’s important to set a budget for your project so that you can narrow down your options based on price point.
When speaking with contractors, be upfront about your budget, and don’t be afraid to ask them if they can work within your budget constraints.
Remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best option—you want to be sure that whomever you choose can do high-quality work that will last for years to come.
2)) Check Their Credentials
The first step in choosing any type of contractor is to make sure they're properly licensed and insured.
In most states, contractors are required by law to have a valid business license.
You can usually find this information on their website or by contacting your local business licensing office.
In addition, be sure to ask if they have insurance coverage in case of any accidents or damage to your property during the construction process.
3)) Get Referrals
One of the best ways to find a reputable contractor is to ask your friends, family, and neighbors for referrals.
If someone you know has had a positive experience with a contractor, there's a good chance you will too.
Furthermore, online review sites like Angie and Yelp can be helpful resources for finding local contractors with positive customer reviews.
4)) Ask for Quotes
Once you've narrowed down your list of potential contractors, be sure to get written estimates from each one before making your final decision.
Be sure that the estimates include all costs associated with the project, such as materials, labor, permits, etc., so there are no surprises down the road.
Also, be sure to ask if the contractor offers any discounts for payment in full upfront or for loyalty programs that offer future discounts on services.
5)) Read Online Reviews
Don't forget to read online reviews. This is a great way to get an idea of what others have thought about their experience with a particular contractor.
Just be sure to take the reviews with a grain of salt—some people are more difficult to please than others.
But if you see a pattern of negative reviews, that's something to take into consideration.
Conclusion
Adding an outdoor kitchen is a great way to take your summer entertaining up a notch but it’s important that you take care when choosing who will build it for you.
By doing your research ahead of time, getting referrals from people you trust, meeting with several different contractors, getting everything in writing, and setting (and sticking to) a budget, you can rest assured knowing that you’ve found someone who will build you the perfect outdoor kitchen.
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