Man Transforms Cinder Blocks & Bricks Into An Outdoor Kitchen Space With An Impressive DIY

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Cinder blocks are useful for a multitude of outdoor DIYs. If you're looking to upgrade your outdoor entertaining space, cinder blocks can help you take your exterior to the next level. An outside kitchen might seem like a major expense, but it's one of the best ways to make the most of a small backyard. Plus, if you use affordable materials, it can be totally attainable. There are several sources that recommend using cinder blocks to build your outdoor cooking space. If you're looking for a simple place to start, Artisan Made on YouTube demonstrated how to make a DIY countertop from cinder blocks and cement.

A countertop for outdoor kitchens is often underrated. It can make or break the functionality, durability, and overall appeal of your outdoor cooking space. If your base isn't perfectly even, make sure to spread a layer of concrete down first and check your blocks with a level. Then, you can start stacking rows of cinder blocks on top of one another, with a layer of cement in between. To hold your blocks in place, consider a product like Bauer Instant Polymer Cement. Because this project is completely custom, you can decide on the height, length, and shape of your cinder block countertop. Artisan Made also made a base for his outdoor oven, but you can always purchase an outdoor oven and cooking appliances separately and simply use cinder blocks for the countertop.

Pros and cons to an outdoor kitchen with a cinder block base

This outdoor kitchen is definitely an unexpected way to repurpose cinder blocks in your garden – as long as you do it right. If you're planning on putting a slab of stone like marble or granite on top of your cinder block countertop, it must be completely level to prevent cracking. This requires using your level to check between every row. Most importantly, the top blocks that will support the countertop must be evenly installed. You'll want to use solid — not hollow — blocks across the very top, laid horizontally to create a sturdy surface.

Overall, cinder blocks are an ideal material for an outdoor kitchen because they won't catch fire or freeze. They're also extremely durable when laid correctly. However, the blocks are definitely heavy and the process can be labor intensive. If you don't mind a little hard work, then this can be a great solution for your space. You can usually source cinder blocks from your local home improvement store, masonry supplier, or landscape supply yard. Once your project is complete, you can upcycle any leftover concrete blocks to create a simple patio bench with this clever DIY.

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