Backyard Grilling

More Californians than ever are taking the culinary arts to the great outdoors. Homeowners are increasingly putting their yards to work as extra rooms - and they're bringing a host of indoor cooking conveniences with them. Natural gas cooktops, sinks and even small refrigerators have all made the move outside.

Whether you're having steak and ribs for a big bunch, or just serving up a fun feast of hot dogs and burgers for family, when you set up all the comforts of home outside, you don't have to spend all that time and energy shuttling back and forth to the kitchen.

Some of the simplest outdoor kitchens are centered around a basic grill. Some of the more elaborate dining venues are outfitted with beautiful furnishings, ventilator hoods, warming drawers, ice makers and wine coolers.

If you’re considering an outdoor kitchen here are some things to keep in mind.

Landscape contractors can offer ideas for ground preparation, counter surfaces and grill options. They are also great sources of information about appropriate plants and nighttime lighting.

You don't need a large yard, but the location of your outdoor kitchen is crucial. Think the plan through and realize that if you put the outdoor kitchen in an inconvenient spot, you're probably not going to use it as much. But, don't overlook an unused corner of the yard. An outdoor kitchen can be its own destination because it's really a room outdoors.

Consider what's overhead. Try to avoid setting up under a tree that will drop leaves, berries or flowers, but be equally wary of a spot where the sun will beat down on diners. An arbor, one that can support a rapidly growing vine, may be just the ticket.

When selecting countertops and cabinets, make sure they'll stand up to wind, rain, water and dirt. Granite, limestone or poured concrete are good considerations for countertops, but some stone varieties will need sealing.  For cabinets, be sure to hire a cabinetmaker who knows what is required outdoors.

Putting in a refrigerator can save more steps for the outdoor cook than almost any other appliance. A low-cost alternative to an electric fridge is to sink an insulated tub into the countertop, which can be filled with ice. If you put in a sink your landscape contractor will need to check local building codes for any water line and drainage restrictions and ordinances.

Grill choices run the gamut from garden-variety charcoal models to pizza ovens, but the three basic choices are charcoal, propane and natural gas. Browse local stores for ideas and ask for brochures of styles you like.

Once you pick your spot, choose a durable surface for the ground surface. The foundation is very important. Options include preformed pavers, brick, or one of the new stamped and colored concrete combinations.

The California Landscape Contractors Association is a non-profit trade organization of licensed landscape and landscape-related contractors. For more landscaping information, ideas and tips, visit http://www.CLCA.org.