How to Winterize Your Outdoor Kitchen
As the temperature begins to drop and the leaves change color, it’s a sign that winter is on its way. While you may not spend as much time in your outdoor kitchen during the colder months, it’s essential to prepare and winterize it to ensure it remains in good condition for the coming year. Proper winterization can prevent damage from freezing temperatures, moisture, and other elements, protecting your investment for longer. We have a couple tips and tricks to offer, so let’s get into it!
Our Prevail Construction team has years of experience in winterizing our outdoor living spaces, especially kitchens. Being on the South Shore for decades, we’ve seen it all and can provide you with the information you need to enjoy your property for years to come. We specialize in creating unique hardscaping features that improve property functionality and value, so don’t hesitate to reach out! Contact us at (774) 854-3073, and we would love to offer you a free quote. Get started today!
Clean Thoroughly
Before putting anything away, it is crucial that you properly and thoroughly clean your outdoor kitchen. Your grill, countertops, and appliances require a little more attention to detail than the other parts of your outdoor kitchen, so make sure you properly clean and sanitize these elements. By removing and sanitizing all utensils, dishes, removable pieces, and nonessential items, you prevent grime build up, mold growth, and extraneous stress. These buildups can become much harder to remove when not treated promptly and regularly. A clean outdoor kitchen is easier to maintain year round and will be ready for use when the weather is right.
Disconnect Water and Gas Supply
If your outdoor kitchen utilizes a gas line or water supply, then you will need to take steps to ensure no winter-related damage occurs. Before winter sets in, disconnect them from your outdoor living space. Turn off the gas valve and shut off the water supply to prevent freezing and subsequent damage to those systems. Make sure gas has fully dissipated and water has been drained from those systems as remnants may cause serious issues.
Cover Up or Store Appliances
Outdoor appliances like grills, refrigerators, sinks, smokers, or bars should be protected from the changing elements as well. To preserve their integrity, cover them with the appropriate outdoor appliance covers that will effectively prevent snow, rain, sleet, and freezing temperatures from damaging your investment. If possible, store these appliances in a weather-proof area as this extra protection will lengthen their lifespans.
Protect Countertops and Cabinets
Countertops and cabinets specifically are very susceptible to weather-related damage and problems. To protect your outdoor kitchen’s functionality, consider applying a weather-resistant counter sealant that repels water and wind damage. Cabinet doors need to be either weather-resistant or properly secured and tied down to prevent irreversible issues that will require costly replacements. If you do not have the ability to water-proof your outdoor kitchen, then you can cover them with waterproof tarps and coverings.
Store Cushions and Fabrics
If your outdoor kitchen or patio has cushions or fabric accessories, ensure that you remove them when inclement weather rolls in. When a fabric is soaked in water, the material is much more susceptible to mold and discoloration. Fabric is often not weather-proof and exposure to the elements can lead to irreparable damage, especially when it comes to moisture. When freezing temperatures hit, the cushions or fabric absorb the melted snow water and freeze, becoming very brittle and misformed. Avoid costly replacements by correctly storing your cushions and fabrics.
Clean and Cover Your Grill
Once the grilling and cookout seasons are over, it is crucial to the next season’s success that your equipment is properly stored during the winter months. To begin the process, you’ll want to give your grill a thorough cleaning to remove leftover food, grease, and debris. This step prevents nasty buildup that you will heave to deal with in the spring. After cleaning, cover your grill with a high-quality grill cover. This cover will protect the grill from excess moisture and consequently rust. Your grill is an investment, and it should be protected like one.
Insulate Plumbing
Not every outdoor kitchen employs water plumbing, but the ones that do need to utilize insulation. While you can, there is no need to run out to a hardware store for specialized insulation when you have towels and plastic wrap at home. By wrapping and securing old towels around the pipes, water is less likely to freeze and cause functionality problems.
Check Electrical Components
Before inclement weather hits, outdoor kitchen electrical components like outlets and lights need to be winterized. Outlets need to be covered and sealed to prevent any sort of moisture exposure. If you have lighting fixtures, check and replace any burnt-out bulbs and refrain from frequent use. If lighting is used in low temperatures, there is a strong likelihood that that bulb will explode. Consider using outdoor-grade extension cords and covers to properly protect your electrical connections.
Regular Maintenance
Throughout the winter months, periodically check your outdoor kitchen and its components to assure everything remains in good condition. Clear any accumulated snow and ice to prevent excessive weight on surfaces and moisture exposure. Make sure covers are secure and undamaged, and your outdoor kitchen will be safe during the winter.
Get Started Today!
As temperatures begin to drop and the leaves transform into vibrant hues, it’s a clear indicator that winter is approaching. While your outdoor kitchen might see less use in the chilly months, it’s crucial to take steps to prepare and winterize it to ensure its longevity. Proper winterization is the key to safeguarding your outdoor kitchen from potential damage caused by freezing temperatures, moisture, and the elements, ultimately protecting your valuable investment.
With our Prevail Construction team boasting years of experience in winterizing outdoor living spaces, particularly kitchens, we’ve encountered a wide range of challenges over the decades here on the South Shore. We’re well-equipped to provide you with the knowledge and expertise needed to help you enjoy your property for many years to come. Our specialty lies in crafting distinctive hardscaping features that enhance property functionality and value, so don’t hesitate to get in touch with us! You can reach us at (774) 854-3073, and we’d be delighted to provide you with a complimentary quote. Let’s begin your project today!
