Category: Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens

When choosing the material for your outdoor kitchen, you have probably heard that stainless steel is the most durable and long-lasting option. As with most metals (stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, and manganese) exposed to the outdoor elements, there is always the concern for rusting and corrosion over time. Although stainless steel is a superior metal in the fact that it’s the best option for your outdoor kitchen cabinets due to corrosion resistance, it is not maintenance-free. It is stainless – not stainproof – meaning it must be properly and regularly cleaned to prevent rust and corrosion.

Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens manufactures cabinets using the most popular grades of stainless steel (304 and 316) for outdoor kitchens. All the different stainless steel grades are composed of iron alloys and the element chromium. At least 10.5% of the material must be chromium to be considered stainless steel, and this key element is the main fighter against rust.

See Related – 304 vs 316 Stainless Steel: What’s the Difference?

To reduce overall maintenance and prevent bare stainless steel from corrosion, adding a powder coat finish to your cabinets will add beauty and make your cabinets virtually maintenance-free. However, it is important to consider the ways in which bare stainless steel can be susceptible to rusting.

When Does Stainless Steel Rust?

If normal steel is exposed to oxygen, ferric oxide forms and creates the well-known rust color. The presence of chromium in stainless steel causes chromium oxide to form instead, and the chromium oxide layer makes stainless steel resistant to rust, slowing down the corrosion rate. Stainless steel that contains sufficient levels of chromium will continue to be protected from rust and corrosion. Under certain circumstances, though, stainless steel becomes vulnerable. These circumstances include contact with corrosive chemicals, the presence of normal steel on the stainless steel, or exposure to extremely high temperatures.[1]

Contact with corrosive chemicals without proper cleaning (use stainless steel cleaner) is sure to corrode stainless steel metal over time. For instance, exposure to seawater or pool water can cause stainless steel rusting due to the corrosive nature of chlorine in the saltwater and in pool cleaning chemicals. 316 stainless steel is more resistant to corrosion due to the presence of the alloy molybdenum, which provides resistance to heat, salt, and other chemicals – giving 316 stainless steel the moniker of “marine grade”. However, neither grade is immune, so bare stainless must be cleaned regularly and especially when exposed to corrosive chemicals.

Another instance of rust formation is when normal steel is exposed to a stainless steel product surface. An example of this occurrence is when steel wool is used to clean a stainless steel tool. The tiny steel particles on the surface of the stainless steel can cause the surface to fall below a 12% chromium concentration level, and at least a 12% concentration is crucial to protect the stainless steel from rust. If the stainless steel begins to rust in this environment, cleaning the rust and thoroughly cleaning the surface with a solvent to remove steel particles should prevent further oxidation.

Rusting can also occur when stainless steel is exposed to extremely high temperatures, such as in the 750-1,550 degrees Fahrenheit range. Typically, this degradation occurs due to the heating and cooling of the stainless when it is being welded. A process called “sensitization” occurs, in which carbides form when carbon and chromium bond together in the stainless steel. The carbides cause the stainless steel to become deficient of chromium, allowing rust to occur.

How to Prevent Stainless Steel from Rusting and Further Corrosion

The most effective way to prevent stainless steel from rusting is to powder coat the surface. Powder coating involves depositing a dry colored powder onto the stainless steel using electrostatic charges. When the surface is heated, the powder coating cures to a hard finish, thus fully coating the bare stainless steel in an attractive and protective layer.

We offer a rich palette of powder coat finishes in many colors and wood grain finishes. Over 85% of the kitchens that have been manufactured in our Connecticut factory are powder coated. We have seen virtually no examples of rust or degradation on our powder coated cabinets in the 20 years have we have been manufacturing our kitchens.

Ready to design your stainless steel outdoor kitchen?

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[1] Source:  www.polymersolutions.com/blog/why-does-stainless-steel-rust/

You want to make the most of your investment when designing your outdoor kitchen. A high-quality outdoor kitchen will be beautiful, durable, customizable, and long-lasting. One of the most important considerations for designing a durable outdoor kitchen is the material you select for your cabinets. Because the kitchen will be outdoors, you will need weatherstrong cabinets. The cabinet material should be able to withstand the effects of weather and temperature changes —therefore wood cabinets might not be the best option.  In this article, we cover the two most popular options for cabinets (wood and stainless steel), and discuss the pros and cons of each – including why stainless steel outdoor cabinets manufactured by Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens are the better investment.

Wood Cabinets

Wood is the most popular material for indoor kitchen cabinet designs, but it can be used outdoors as well. This natural material helps bring the indoors to the outside, and the color can be customized using paint or stain. Although wood goes well with most outdoor furniture and is suitable for an outdoor space, this material has disadvantages. Extended periods of moisture will cause wood to rot, requiring replacement. Repeated cycles of getting wet and then drying out causes wood to swell and shrink, resulting in cracking and degradation of the structure’s integrity. Additionally, exposure to the elements will damage the finish over time, requiring repainting or replacement. Wood is also flammable, often requiring a stainless steel sleeve or grill cabinet to be placed around the grill. While pressure-treated wood and cement backer board can help mitigate heat and moisture, it is important to be mindful that wood cabinets placed outside will always require maintenance. Also keep this in mind if you are looking at wooden outdoor furniture to fill your outdoor entertainment space.

Stainless Steel Cabinets

Stainless steel is an alloy composed of iron and at least 10.5% chromium. The presence of chromium is vital, as it deters the stainless steel from rusting. Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens manufactures stainless steel cabinets in both 304 and 316 (marine grade) stainless steel. Both grades are high quality and durable, although 316 is more resistant to corrosion and is typically reserved for locations that are susceptible to it, such as near saltwater. While bare stainless steel is an appealing option, it must be properly maintained and regularly cleaned to avoid rust, corrosion, scratches, or stains. With regular maintenance, these grades of stainless steel are very resistant to heat and chemicals, will not rust, and will maintain structural integrity — making them the perfect choice for outdoor cabinetry.

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Why Stainless Steel is the Best Material for Outdoor Cabinets

Stainless steel is the best material for your outdoor living space and outdoor kitchen design. It is resilient, durable, and able to withstand weather effects and everyday wear and tear when properly maintained. Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens also offers a powder coat finish on our cabinets to provide even more protection. When powder coated, our cabinets are virtually maintenance-free. Our powder coat color palette includes any color to suit your style, as well as realistic wood finishes that will give you the look of wood without the same maintenance requirements.

Due to the durability of powder-coated stainless steel cabinets, we always recommend a powder coat finish. Indeed, over 90% of the kitchens manufactured in our Connecticut factory are powder coated. We have seen virtually no instances of rust or degradation of powder-coated surfaces in the over 20 years that we have been manufacturing our kitchens. 

While wood cabinets are undoubtedly an attractive option for your outdoor kitchen area, the maintenance requirements are numerous. Due to the limited maintenance, powder-coated stainless steel outdoor kitchens are the better investment.  Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens offers a wide range of customization for your outdoor kitchen, with many options for color, cabinet door styles, cabinet sizes, and layouts.

Call us today for a quote or use our form to contact our inside sales team for more information about our outdoor kitchen cabinetry. Discover the ways in which a stainless steel outdoor kitchen is truly the best investment for your home!

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Creating an attractive and fully functional outdoor living space is an investment in the value of your home. Any outdoor space can easily be transformed into a backyard entertainment center, complete with amenities such as patio furniture, a kitchen, living room, fireplace, and a bar. Combined with lighting, accessories, and a color scheme, your backyard living area can be a focal point of your unique style and vision. From powder coat colors on your outdoor kitchen cabinets, to potted plants and lighting, you can easily enhance your unique style and create cohesion between your indoor and outdoor spaces. Consider these 5 outdoor living space ideas in order to maximize the concept of bringing the indoors to the outside.

1. Design an Outdoor Kitchen. Designing an outdoor kitchen as the focal point for your space is the perfect way to extend indoor living to the outdoors. For a luxurious feel, the stainless steel cabinets from Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens are the best choice for your kitchen, as they are functional and durable with plenty of customization options. This line of cabinetry – with hundreds of sizes in many styles – can be designed to fit in any space and accommodate virtually any outdoor appliance. For added beauty and ease of maintenance, Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens offers a rich color palette and realistic woodgrain powder coat finishes for your kitchen cabinets, making this line of cabinetry essential for your outdoor kitchen.

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Before choosing your design, consider the multiple benefits of having an outdoor kitchen.

2. Decide Your Overall Yard Design Scheme. When it comes to outdoor design, it’s important to treat your outdoor living space as an extension of your home. Consider if you want your area to have a beautiful contemporary look or a rustic, cozy While some opt for classic black wood and other neutrals for their outdoor kitchen finish, others prefer bold pops of color or shiny metallics. Choose a palette, as well as materials and textures, that reflect your style and complement the overall scheme of the space.

Related – Top 10 Powder Coat Finishes for Outdoor Kitchens

3. Outdoor Seating. Providing a seating  options in your outdoor space is crucial for entertainment. Use barstools in your kitchen for a casual setting or add a table and chairs for formal seating. Either way, furniture will result is an intimate place for dining, drinking, and talking with friends and family. Seat cushions and pillows can be decorative and should match your color palette. A seating area not only provides a place to relax and enjoy your outdoor living room with your guests and it gives you the opportunity to continue your personal idesign touches and color.

4. Outdoor Firepit or Fireplace. One way to enhance the comfort of your space is the addition of an outdoor firepit or fireplace. The design and materials of your firepit or fireplace can really highlight other design elements and complement your space. For example, choose sleek and neutral stone for a more modern look or brick for a classic look. Regardless of the material you choose, a fire in your space is sure to provide a cozy inviting ambiance with both warmth and light.

5. Incorporate Accessories and Lighting. Along with the use of space, consider color and décor to blend the indoors and outdoors together. Outdoor lighting and other accessories, such as pillows and rugs, can completely transform the look of your outdoor living area. These simple additions will make you feel more at home in the outdoors by incorporating elements that are typically found inside. Most importantly, you’ll want to choose accessories that are both weather-resistant and stylish to suit your style.

At Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens, our goal is to inspire you with these ideas for outdoor living spaces so that decorating and creating your ideal backyard comes easily. Your guests will surely be impressed!

Ready to incorporate these outdoor living space design ideas into your space? Call Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens today to get started designing your outdoor kitchen!

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Stainless steels are iron alloys mixed with chromium, rendering them an incredibly durable and heavy-duty material. For a material to be considered stainless steel, at least 10.5% of the molecular make-up must be chromium. The two most common grades of stainless steel for outdoor kitchens are 304 and 316 (marine grade) due to their strength. The grades are determined by their alloy composition, although both are high-quality and durable options for your outdoor kitchen appliances. While visibly indistinguishable, the chemical composition differs, making each grade more useful in certain applications.

All 300-grade stainless steels are austenitic (non-magnetic), rather than ferritic (magnetic). This refers to their grain structure. Most steels have a body-centered cubic grain structure, while austenitic steels have a face-centered cubic structure, meaning their atomic makeup allows them to be even more ductile and heat resistant than conventional types of stainless steels.

304 Stainless Steel

304 is the most common grade of stainless steel and is found in most appliances. While it is oxidation resistant, it can be corroded by chloride and salt substances. It is commonly used in kitchen equipment, cutlery, pipes and tubing, and military vehicles.

316 Stainless Steel

316 stainless steel is typically found in marine vessels and chemical storage units. It is highly durable, easy to clean and weld, and it is corrosion-resistant and heat-resistant. 316 contains several variations, such as 316L, which contains less carbon than 316. As a result, 316L resists even higher temperatures and higher levels of corrosion than 316, but it is more susceptible to damage from acid.

304 vs. 316 Stainless Steel

While the main alloys in 300 grade stainless steel are chromium and nickel, other additional alloys can include manganese, titanium, aluminum, copper, nitrogen, phosphorus, selenium, and molybdenum. The key alloy that distinguishes 304 from 316 is the addition of 2% molybdenum in the 316. Molybdenum provides a high resistance to heat, salt, and other chemicals in environments that are rich in salt air, giving 316 stainless the distinction of being “marine grade”. For this reason, 316 is invaluable for industries and appliances that regularly engage in salt or saltwater, and it is typically marketed as a marine metal for its use in wet weather and seawater conditions.

Should I Use 304 or 316 for My Outdoor Kitchen Cabinetry?

If you live in a coastal area, 316 is recommended for your outdoor kitchen cabinetry due to its corrosion resistance in salty areas. In other environments – the desert, the mountains, in the city, or in a suburban backyard – 304 is the way to go. Truthfully, the majority of appliance and grill manufacturers use 304 grade stainless steel – even in coastal areas – provided the steel is regularly cleaned, maintained, or kept covered. 304 tends to be less expensive than 316 as well, and it is more than adequate in most outdoor kitchen applications.

It is also important to note that stainless steel is not stain proof; it is stainless. Consequently, regardless of whether you use 304 or 316, exposed stainless steel (no powder coating) requires maintenance. The addition of molybdenum (in marine grade stainless steel) only retards corrosion – it does not stop it.

Why Add Powder Coating to Stainless Steel?

In order to truly fight corrosion, Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens recommends powder coating your outdoor kitchen cabinets regardless of the grade of stainless you decide. A powder coat finish is highly recommended for color customization, durability, and to minimize maintenance. Choose from a palette of 10 Brown Jordan-exclusive colors and 7 realistic wood grain finishes to protect your stainless cabinets and provide a vibrant, long-lasting finish.

Powder coating makes your outdoor kitchen virtually maintenance-free from a cleaning perspective, as well as protection from weather and everyday wear-and-tear. A bare stainless steel surface highlights unsightly blemishes, such as fingerprints, streaking, smudges, dust, and dirt. A powder coat finish requires only water and a mild detergent to clean and provides a protective seal from corrosion, rust, scratches, and stains.

Over 85% of the kitchens manufactured in our Connecticut factory are powder coated. In the 20 years, we have been delivering these kitchens, we have virtually no instances of rust or degradation on powder coated surfaces.

When considering long-term value, stainless steel outdoor kitchens are the best investment. For any additional questions or advice on your project, reach out to our in-house design team at 203-626-5625 or contact us and we’ll be in touch!

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An essential objective of designing a kitchen for the outdoors is being mindful of how indoor and outdoor features and color palettes can flow to create a cohesive space. When choosing a color, it is vital to consider not only hues, but durability and lasting appearance of the finish.

Weather and everyday wear-and-tear can negatively affect the stainless steel finish on outdoor cabinets by contributing to corrosion, rust, scratches, and stains. A powder coat finish is highly recommended to minimize maintenance and contribute to a durable, long-lasting product. This type of coating can withstand all the outdoor elements, including wear and tear, and also allows for customization with a variety of colors.

Powder coating is the process by which dry colored powder is deposited onto a surface – in this case, metal – using electrostatic charges, which allows for an even powder-coated finish. The surface is then heated to a specific temperature and cured to form a durable layer. A powder coat finish is a tougher and more protective finish than other conventional paint options.

Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens has over 20 years of experience working with designers to provide the latest environmentally friendly technology for powder coat types with an industrial, concrete-like texture that meshes well with the feel of the outdoors. We offer a rich palette of color options in our powder coat finishes to suit a wide range of personal and professional aesthetics.

Wood Grains

The powder coat colors offered in wood grain provide the perfect opportunity to effortlessly blend the design of a typical indoor kitchen space with the woodsy feel of the outdoors. While real wood has drawbacks – such as requiring consistent exterior maintenance with paint or stain – the wood grain powder coated finishes offer the look and style of real wood while providing complete protection and a lasting finish.

• Teak – a classic shade that has been used in boatbuilding for over 2,000 years and is popular for boat decking and cabinetry.
• Drift – a neutral and calming grain of dark and light beige that would complement many styles and palettes.

Moody Blue and Neutral Hues

Neutral hues and rich blue shades are classically suitable for creating an inviting, relaxing space in the great outdoors. Color vibrancy and saturation are ideal for that rich, luxurious feel.

• Pearl Night Blue, a pearly rich blue that is popular in coastal settings.
• Mica, a neutral dark grey with plenty of shimmer to reflect the light.
• Midnight Matte, a traditionally classic black that is a staple in many color palettes.
• Nu-Black Hammertone, a black-grey that always stands out in outdoor lighting due to the natural depth and dimension from hammering.
• Slate, another grey neutral shade that is particularly popular in the quaint areas of New England.
• Seashell White, an always classic shade of white with a satiny finish.

Metallic Pops

Metallic shades are some of the most unique options for powder coat finish colors. While mimicking the shine of natural stainless, they also provide that durable finish, creating a clean and striking outcome in the sunlight.

• Metallic Bronze Matte, a neutral grey-brown with a subtle shimmer.
• Champagne 304, a beautiful metallic beige with a pink undertone.

Regardless of one’s color preference or palette options, choosing to powder coat stainless cabinets in an outdoor space is a no-brainer. This type of coating allows for plenty of protection to withstand weathering with a durable and vibrant finish. Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens offers a wide array of powder coat color options that would be sure to suit any aesthetic.

All colors are available for review on the finishes page.

This post was published on September 25, 2019 and updated August 20, 2020.
The desire to bring indoor features to the outdoors is growing in popularity, as evidenced by the increase in demand for outdoor kitchens among homeowners. However, an outdoor kitchen is not the only way to create the illusion of the “inside coming out”. An outdoor living room for the backyard, patio, rooftop or deck is the perfect complement to an outdoor kitchen by providing a space to sit and relax, entertain, and eat with friends and family. When creating your dream living room for the outdoor space, consider a variety of factors to make the best use of function, color, and space.

Related – Outdoor Kitchens on Decks: What You Need to Know

4 Outdoor Living Room Design Ideas

1. Seating Area for Entertainment and Eating

First and foremost, the most practical purpose of an outdoor room is a seating area for entertaining and eating with loved ones. Designing an outdoor living room in the same space as your outdoor kitchen is optimal for this purpose, as your cooking area is only steps away from your dining area. This layout gives the chef the ability to socialize with guests while cooking, as well as allowing lounging guests the option to easily access food and drink. Consider having enough space for outdoor furniture to accommodate family, friends and guests so that everyone is comfortable. By designing your dream outdoor living room with both in mind, you’ll achieve a functional and efficient layout that truly brings everyone together in the living space outdoors.

2. Shade Options

When considering how indoor and outdoor features can flow, framing and shading are popular ways to enclose your outdoor living room and provide a perimeter, making it feel even more like an indoor space in the outdoors. Shading options – like a gazebo or pergola – offer protection from the sun and will give you the bonus of enjoying your space even during inclement weather. Consider installing a ceiling fan in your gazebo or covered patio so you can stay cool during the warm summer nights.  Additionally, using elements such as fencing, curtains, or lattice will create boundaries and provide the illusion of having an indoor space in the outdoors. These features also allow the option to hang up artwork or lights to make the space feel even more like home. Your dream outdoor living room will feel cozy and secluded, as if you were relaxing indoors.

3. Outdoor Lighting

By adding lighting, the enjoyment of your outdoor space does not need to be limited to the daytime. An outdoor fire place, string lights, or lanterns can enhance your evening or nighttime atmosphere by providing a cozy ambience. An outdoor fire pit is perfect for lighting and heating up the patio while you enjoy roasting marshmallows over the fire. Including outdoor lighting is essential as it also gives you the opportunity to cook, eat, drink, and socialize with loved ones even after the sun goes down. You will certainly appreciate relaxing in your space with the cool nighttime air and a warm glow.

4. Color and Décor Style

Along with the use of space, consider color and décor to tie everything together. Just as Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens offers a rich variety of color options for powder coating your outdoor kitchen cabinets, your outdoor living room should include indoor design elements that use color to enhance the overall aesthetic. Some popular ideas include patio furniture, rugs, curtains, throw pillows – even TVs! Most importantly, you’ll want to choose furniture and accessories that are weather-resistant and stylish to suit your personalized color palette. Consider a rug, that is rated for the outdoors, adding matching throw pillows onto your sofa and curtains from the same color palette to tie everything together. Including these accessories is a sure way to maximize the concept of bringing the indoors to the outdoors, creating a stylish, yet cozy outdoor living space.

Transform the Outdoor Living Area

Your dream outdoor living space should include several features to create a relaxing outdoor retreat with the most optimal use of function, color, and space. Design an outdoor living room with an outdoor kitchen nearby for optimal entertainment. Use elements like fencing or a pergola to create boundaries and shade for a quiet, inviting space. Finally, consider your color palette and choose appropriate accessories like rugs and curtains to make your living room in the outdoor space a true reflection of the indoors. Take outdoor entertaining to the next level. Call us today or use our contact form to learn more about our outdoor kitchen cabinets.

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Updated May 15, 2020.

This post was originally published on May 15, 2019 updated May 15, 2020.
As you’re considering the design of your outdoor kitchen, you’ve got many things to consider. One vital question is where are you going to put the outdoor kitchen. Many choose to put the backyard kitchen on a patio; however, what if the best space you have available is on a deck?

Decks are a common dining area and gathering place as part of a home’s outdoor living space and outdoor kitchens on decks are becoming a trendy addition to outdoor living areas. Adding an outdoor kitchen design to a deck’s layout takes careful planning as an outdoor space can be limited but enhanced by this al fresco cooking amenity.  Whether it’s a raised, multilevel or platform deck, locating the outdoor kitchen on a structure like this has its advantages in the backyard or patio.

Stainless steel outdoor kitchens are a lightweight option that offers a variety of configuration options that can be as subtle or obvious as you like. They can be installed in smaller spaces as a single run along a wall of the home on a deck or take center stage as an outdoor kitchen island layout.

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It can be configured to keep the cook near the guests, maintaining it as the central hub of activity while cooking in the outdoor space. It is less expensive to run utilities to the outdoor kitchen since the deck is a short distance from the house, usually just out the back or side door.  And, the existing walls of the house can provide structure and protection to the outdoor kitchen plans—at no extra cost.

Let’s look at what you will need to consider first when planning a deck to include an outdoor kitchen:

• Weight limit – if you have an existing deck in your outdoor living area, consulting with a builder or engineer to determine deck load capacity is critical. You will want to prevent any sagging with an aged deck and, therefore, determining what you will be adding onto the deck such as the outdoor kitchen, furniture, outdoor bar, pizza oven and other amenities should be discussed. This goes for building a new deck, as well.

 

• Utilities – Once appliances and amenities are determined, the placement of these lines – below the deck or along the support beams – should be decided for:
  • gas for the grill & burners
  • plumbing for a sink
  • electricity for a mini fridge, wine cooler, lighting, television or sound system

Outdoor kitchen cabinetry is manufactured in a variety of materials such as wood species, including cypress, ipe, teak, bamboo and others, as well as polymers, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and stainless steel. Each material presents its own set of pros and cons with the benefits of stainless steel being the most resilient of these options.

Related – Benefits of Stainless Steel Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets

A stainless steel kitchen design is light enough to be placed on the deck and can as simple as a short run of cabinets and countertops with a built-in grill to mirror the homeowner’s indoor kitchen. Because it will separate the heat from the deck itself, stainless steel outdoor kitchens don’t require an insert like other materials.

Sustainable and recyclable, stainless steel is known for a variety of other positive traits, including:

• low maintenance costs
• long life
• 100% recyclability
• fire and corrosion resistance
• product safety
• minimal emissions
• light-weight
• maintaining its shape and integrity

When designing an outdoor kitchen to complement a decking area, be sure to consider all the options when building the ultimate outdoor entertaining space. Remember, the outdoor kitchen design solution should be one that delivers aesthetics, performance and value.

Looking for more outdoor kitchen design insight?

Check out our gallery page for more outdoor kitchen ideas or give us a call to learn more about an outdoor deck kitchen. Our outdoor kitchen cabinets are built to last in the living space outdoors.

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When we think about our outdoor living space, we often think about adding a built-in grill onto our patio or maybe a sink with storage cabinets. But we often forget about the access doors. Including a kitchen in your

outdoor living space allows for enjoyable cooking and al fresco dining that can last well beyond the summer months. A well-designed outdoor kitchen crafted with carefully chosen materials certainly increases the

value of the investment and adds longevity. So what is a proven material? Stainless steel.

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Related: Does Stainless Steel Rust & What Does It Mean for Your Outdoor Kitchen?

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Among the options available for outdoor kitchen cabinets are a variety of wood species, including cypress, ipe, teak, bamboo and others, as well as polymers, high density polyethylene (HDPE), masonry and stainless steel. While many outdoor kitchens include one or more of these materials, stainless steel is often the popular choice for the cabinet boxes and cabinet doors.

As you weigh your cabinet options, consider these 5 benefits to selecting stainless steel outdoor kitchen cabinet doors:

1. Finish Options – While many think of stainless steel as polished silver, there are a variety of finishes including powder coating with a specific color or wood grain finish. An eco-friendly and sustainable method of coating stainless steel cabinets, it also helps minimize maintenance. The powder coating also protects the stainless steel itself from chips, spills, stains and unsightly finger prints and provides a strong defense against corrosion and environmental conditions.
2. Marine Grade – Stainless steel outdoor kitchen doors easily handle the salty challenges that beachfront properties and seaside escapes pose. The two most popular grades of stainless steel for outdoor cooking environments are 304 and 316L, also known as marine-grade stainless steel. Their numbers are determined by their alloy composition. For a material to be considered stainless steel, at least 10.5% of the make-up must be chromium. Additional alloys typically include nickel, titanium, aluminum, copper, nitrogen, phosphorous, selenium and molybdenum. The key difference between the 304 and the 316L is the addition of molybdenum in the 316L. It is the molybdenum that enhances corrosion resistance in environments rich in salt air and chloride – giving 316L the moniker of “marine grade” stainless steel.
3. Longevity – Wood requires consistent and regular maintenance to extend its life, while plastics and HDPE tend to lose their shape in the heat. Stucco islands often experience water damage from rain and puddling water. However, regardless of the grade of stainless steel, this choice in cabinet door material exceeds the life cycle of other typical alternatives mentioned above to extend the life of the doors and the overall integrity of the outdoor kitchen. Regardless of your material, proper cleaning helps extends the life of outdoor kitchen cabinet doors – even stainless steel.
4. Bacterial and Fungal Resistance – Stainless steel has a non-porous laboratory work surface, ensuring no liquids, bacteria, fungus or mold can penetrate it. This means that bacteria, fungi, and dirt have nowhere to hide. With routine cleaning practices, the risk of germs spreading or cross contamination occurring is significantly reduced. So, if the outdoor kitchen chef is prepping chicken and opens a cabinet door to reach for a knife, the easy to clean surface poses no health risk!
5. Eco-Friendly – Stainless steel is not just a durable, beautiful and resilient material. It is also an eco-friendly outdoor cabinet material. Stainless steel is entirely recyclable and, with its extreme strength, the need to replace cabinet doors often is reduced. Great for the environment and financially, it’s a win-win. Known for a variety of traits, stainless steel continues to be a popular choice not only for doors but entire outdoor kitchen cabinets.

Contact us to discover outdoor kitchen stainless steel doors and frames and cabinetry options for your next outdoor living project available from Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens at info@brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.com or call 203-626-5625.

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This post was originally posted on Aug. 27, 2018 and updated March 20, 2020.
When designing your outdoor space, there are factors to consider, including space for entertaining, personal style, and how they should tie together to create an outdoor kitchen that will satisfy your needs.

The L-shaped kitchen is a standard design for many indoor kitchens. Hailed for its ergonomic benefits, it is a sensible and popular choice. And its versatility makes it ideal for entertainment spaces including outdoor kitchens. This outdoor kitchen layout offers a significant amount of counter space for food preparation and outdoor cooking without taking up a lot of room making it the perfect choice for any size backyard or patio.

Related – Outdoor Kitchen Location Tips

What makes the L-shaped kitchen design so efficient is that it facilitates a sensible work triangle for the cook. This includes easy access to the food preparation, cleanup and cooking areas and elements of the kitchen providing a simple and effective workspace while still allowing interaction with guests.

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Since guests like to be near the cook – who may be doing double duty as the host and handling food prep – adding additional counter space such as a bar top with seating, allows them to remain near the action and, at the same time, reduce foot traffic, helping the cook to stay on task. A cocktail bar or an outdoor kitchen island are also options that can be added. These can be installed along right-angled walls and opens the center area up.

Appliances such as a grill, pizza oven, refrigerator, sink, cabinetry for storage even a wine chiller or kegerator can also be added. Wall cabinets can help to maximize storage space and blend well with the aesthetics of the outdoor kitchen design.

In addition to a backyard or patio, rooftop living spaces can also easily accommodate an L-shaped outdoor kitchen. The functionality of a traditional L-shaped kitchen design with a grill, built-in sink and matching wall cabinets maximize space creating a communal setting.

Some advantages of the L-shaped layout kitchen include:

• perfect for corner space
• suitable for small and medium kitchen areas
• benchtops and cabinets can be adjusted to length
• easy working triangle for outdoor entertaining and grilling
• perfect for open plan designs
• easy access by cook

Related – Are Outdoor Kitchens Worth the Investment?

As always, it is helpful to consult with an outdoor kitchen designer who will work within the outdoor living space and its amenities such as a pool house, deck or patio structure. The emphasis is on the work triangle created within the outdoor space and, even if you’re not making significant structural changes outdoors with a full renovation, you can enhance the layout with the right amount of stainless steel cabinetry. Check out our gallery page for plenty of outdoor kitchen ideas.

Looking for design layout insight for the outdoor living area? Contact one of our in-house designers by calling 203-626-5625 for more kitchen ideas for the outdoors today!

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Powder coating has been used on steel in the automotive and manufacturing industry for over 50 years. It has now reached into the realm of interior and exterior design as an excellent way to coat outdoor furniture and cabinetry. Powder coating is an affordable and eco-friendly way to provide sleek and protective finishes to a variety of home ware, including kitchen cabinets. No longer is it used solely on shiny metallic appliances such as refrigerators, but also on countertops, outdoor cabinets and outdoor kitchens.

Experts in Powder Coating Cabinets for the Outdoors

With over 20 years of experience, Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens provides the leading quality knowledge and service when it comes to powder coating outdoor kitchens. The powder coating process offers the cabinets a defensive layer against extreme weather damage like mountain snow, desert sun and storms. The extra surface layer of a powder coat ensures durability as it will provide corrosion protection for furnishing materials that may otherwise break down quickly. Also, using powder coating on exposed surfaces such as cabinet doors and countertops can give owners peace of mind when it comes to worrying about stains, spills, and day-to-day wear and tear in their outdoor space.

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Environmental Benefits of a Powder Coat Finish

In addition, powder coating finishes provide a variety of benefits towards the environment that are not found in other materials. Besides complying with environmental regulations and not posing any significant health risks, the powder coating product is also free from harmful substances such as:

• Volatile Organic Compound (VOC)
• Airborne pollutants
• Indisposable hazardous materials

Related – Eco-Friendly Outdoor Cabinet Material

The benefits of using powder coating instead of liquid coatings include producing less waste by-product and a significantly more smooth surface. Powder coating can be applied in much thicker layers without becoming runny or drooping, while liquid paint can lead to an inconsistently painted-on texture. Powder coating is electrostatically applied via a spray method and then cured in an oven, leading to the smoothest possible finish.

Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens offers a wide range of possibilities when it comes to powder coating colors and textures, including options for the look of industrial colors, which pay tribute to the imperfections of metal and stone at different stages of age and decay, as well as realistic wood grain finishes. Powder coating is a combination of pigment and resin, which makes it very versatile when it comes to color ranges. Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens also uses a type of outdoor powder coating based on Super Durable Polyesters (SDPs) that reduce color fading in the sun and are much more durable and weather resistant than standard polyester.

The Process of Powder Coating Cabinets

To guarantee the optimal powder coated finish, we start the process with the cabinet doors disassembled and painted as individual pieces to ensure environmental elements do not have direct contact with the stainless steel itself. They are then sprayed and moved to cure in the oven. At Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens, our Quality Control team inspects and ensures every powder coated piece is cured properly prior to shipping.

After choosing a stainless outdoor kitchen, adding powder coating allows another opportunity for design creativity and forms a lasting and durable surface. This method of protection remains the best option for the planet and a good investment in your home.

Related – Are Outdoor Kitchens Worth the Investment

Contact us to explore the powder coating services that Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens offers at info@brownjordanoutdoorkitchens.com or call 203-626-5625. Our outdoor kitchen cabinets are built to last in the outdoor living space.

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