Hardscapes

If there is one landscape feature that many are raving and dreaming about, it is the outdoor fireplace. Who wouldn’t want to sit by the fire and get cozy with the people close to you, right? This landscape element has been a cornerstone of the outdoor living space movement for quite some time. Sure, fire pits and chimeneas are nice, but if your yard has the space and you have the money, a masonry fireplace at the edge of your patio living space simply can’t be beat.

Not only will it raise the value of your real estate and add some structure and beauty to your yard, but it will also allow you to extend your patio season considerably. If you plan to add a fire feature to your property, congratulations on finding this article about outdoor fireplaces! This is a crash course on everything fireplace-related.

What is an Outdoor Fireplace?

As its name suggests, an outdoor fireplace is quite simply a fireplace that is outside, typically along the edge of your patio living area. It is very similar to an indoor fireplace in terms of materials used, but its construction is more straightforward since the chimney can be much shorter and isn’t connected to the house.

Outdoor fireplaces are commonly composed of a firebox and a short chimney. While they are primarily designed for heating, some are also designed to become wood-fired ovens where homeowners and guests can make pizzas or even casseroles. 

Are Outdoor Fireplaces Different from Fire Pits?

Although both fireplaces and fire pits burn wood and add some warmth and character to your landscape, they aren’t the same. Here are their key differences:

Outdoor Fireplace

• An outdoor fireplace is composed of a firebox and a chimney for proper smoke ventilation.
• Firebox openings are usually arched, rectangular, or square.
• Fire Brick should always be used to line the firebox.
• Chimneys may either be tapered at the top or rectangular.
• They may be attached to the house or situated at an adjoining patio, deck, or terrace.
• They can be almost any size and as complex or simple as you would like.
• People sit in front to enjoy the fire and feel the heat radiated out of the front when in use.
• They may or may not have a fire screen to catch hot ashes.
• They are traditionally constructed using all masonry materials.
• They traditionally burn wood, but there are certainly gas and electric varieties.
• They can add privacy and block wind due to their size and structure.
• Construction will likely require a building permit.

Outdoor Fire Pit

• Fire pits can either be in the ground or freestanding
• Most fire pits are round in shape, but there are also oval, square, and rectangular ones.
• They allow for seating all around the fire.
• They may or may not have a fire screen to catch hot ashes.
• They can be built anywhere since they don’t have a chimney.
• It’s basically just a campfire, other than it may be sunk into the ground with some sort of masonry structure. Or it is a metal structure that can be moved around.
• Much less expensive to build and maintain.
• Usually, burn wood, but there are gas or electric varieties.
• Wide-open to the wind, nothing to stop the fire and ashes from blowing around.
• Typically no building permit will be required.
• So the only thing these two have in common is that they burn wood? Pretty much, the fire pit is nice, but it is very different from an outdoor fireplace.
• Both will keep you warm on a chilly night, and both will give you a spot to burn some marshmallows.

9 Reasons to Add an Outdoor Fireplace to Your Property

Outdoor fireplaces are pretty romantic, and they allow you to spend late nights outside while you’re snuggling with your partner or sharing some fun times with the kids while making s’mores. If you’re still trying to convince yourself or your housemates to add a fireplace just outside your house, here are some reasons that would have you looking for a professional builder:

1. Outdoor fireplaces provide warmth – The primary function of an outdoor fireplace is to provide warmth during those cold nights. Instead of being cooped up inside, you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor space without worrying that you’re going to freeze. 
2. It extends your time spent outside – Since outdoor fireplaces provide heat, staying outside for more extended periods won’t be a problem. You can throw an intimate celebration until morning or sit and talk with your loved ones all night while warming up in front of your fireplace.
3. It extends your living space – coupled with a few nice comfy lounge chairs or maybe a couch; it can give you that cozy living room feel outside on your patio. Who couldn’t use an extra living room,
4. It is easy to maintain – just a bit of ash cleanout, nothing too complicated here.
5. It can improve the overall look of your property – By adding this fire feature, your backyard will have an accent piece that will pull people’s attention, even when it is not lit.
6. It changes the ambiance of your home – Not all of us are lucky enough to have a fireplace in the house, so this is a much more affordable way to bring the sights, sounds, and smells of a real wood fire into your life.
7. You have extra space for entertainment – adding the outdoor fireplace might just give you an additional seating area attraction for your guests.
8. It is an excellent investment – In the future, when you decide to move and sell your property, you’ll realize that you made a great choice by adding an outdoor fireplace to your yard. The aesthetic appeal it brings increases your home value. You’ll also find it easy to find potential buyers since outdoor fireplaces are currently a popular trend.
9. It can keep bugs away – the smoke from the fire will help discourage them.

Things to Consider Before Installing an Outdoor Fireplace

Don’t let your excitement jeopardize your plans to build an outdoor fireplace. Make sure that you have researched and prepared well so you won’t encounter problems in the long run. 

Here are a few things that you should consider before building:

Identify your outdoor fireplace’s purpose –

Your purpose for adding an outdoor fireplace to your backyard is an important planning consideration since it will help you decide on the size. If you have identified that you just want a place where you and your family can hang out and share some stories, a small fireplace is suggested. However, if you would like to cater to more people— your friends, colleagues, or distant relatives perhaps, then you should opt for a two-sided outdoor fireplace.

Review local ordinances

This is crucial since some areas may not allow fireplaces. Always check local ordinances and talk to homeowners’ associations prior to beginning any construction. You don’t want to get part way into your construction project just to be shut down and fined by the local authorities.

Consider safety when choosing the location.

Choosing the location of your fireplace is also something you should carefully plan. We are dealing with fire here, so we need to make sure that prevailing winds aren’t going to be blowing hot ashes into our trees or house.

Prioritize proper ventilation

Due to the short chimney, it would be easy for the smoke from your outdoor fireplace to settle down into the seating area, especially if you have an enclosed or partially walled-in areas. You want this pretty much out in the open so that you are not trapping the smoke.

Familiarize yourself with the types of fireplaces

Part of building an outdoor fireplace is choosing between wood and gas. Be honest with yourself here. Are you the type that doesn’t mind the extra work of chopping or buying wood and cleaning ashes? If you are not the type to enjoy the processes involved with building a wood fire, you may want to consider installing a gas fireplace.

Make sure the fireplace complements your home.

With so many styles, colors, and patterns of block available, you can create any sort of fireplace that you can dream of, but let’s make sure that it fits well with your home as well as the surrounding landscape and hardscapes. You want things to look like they were planned out, and you don’t want too many different materials. Having the masonry of the fireplace match or compliment any seat walls and patio stone that you might already have is a good start.

Pay attention to scale

You also want the scale of the new fireplace to complement and reflect the scale of the house. Neither a large fireplace next to a tiny house nor a tiny fireplace next to a big house will look right. 

Learn about fire safety

No matter how much warmth and coziness the fire brings, it is still hazardous. If you haven’t had a fireplace before, you need to do a bit of fire safety research to make sure that you can keep yourself and your family safe. You must learn how to use a fire extinguisher and make sure that one is readily available near the fireplace.

Consider the Placement

I mentioned a while ago that your outdoor fireplace must compliment your home, but another concern is how it will fit into your existing patio. Do you have a good spot for it, or will you need to expand the patio to make this work? Will it be too close to the outdoor kitchen or that big tree in the yard? Will you have room to create a seating area in front of it, or is the entire patio already full of furniture? Most patios simply don’t have enough room for a completely new seating area. This is an important consideration. If your entire patio needs to be re-done to accommodate this new outdoor fireplace, the project’s scope and cost just increased significantly.

Consider Features

Should this fireplace be small and simple, or might you want it built big enough to incorporate a mantle and hearth? Will you want a built-in wood storage area or a built-in area for tools?

Consider Accessories

Will you need to purchase fire tools like pokers and tongs? Will you need a fire screen or wood hauler? Don’t forget about furniture; you will surely want some comfortable lounging furniture near your fireplace.

Pros and Cons – Wood vs. Gas

Wood-burning Pros

• More rustic and authentic.
• The fire is different every time and changes through the hours you spend around it.
• The fire provides you with something to do while it is burning; many people enjoy poking in the fire, arranging the logs, adding logs, etc.
• It will actually smell like the campfire. Nothing beats that smell of burning wood (for some people)
• Cheaper to install, no need for gas lines and burners.
• Chopping and splitting firewood is good exercise.
• The smoke can keep the bugs away.
• It might be an excellent way to get rid of those sticks that always seem to land in your yard.
• No chance of a gas leak.
• Neighbors might like the smoke?

Wood-burning Cons

• The fire needs to be built; it doesn’t just happen at the flick of a switch.
• It’s an actual wood fire, so that means popping and hot embers jumping out or blowing out of the firebox.
• It will actually smell (a con for some people)
• You will need to chop or buy firewood
• The fire will need some attention as it burns.
• The fire will be harder to extinguish than gas.
• Neighbors might not like the smoke?
• You might end up with ashes on cars, tables, chairs, etc., after a night of burning.

Gas Pros

• Sarts at the flick of a switch
• It doesn’t really smell.
• Easy to extinguish.
• No ashes or debris to clean up.
• No sparks and embers flying out of the firebox.
• Not smoky 
• Can choose a gas burner with ceramic logs.

Gas Cons

• No wood-burning smell.
• Nothing to do while it burns.
• It doesn’t give you that same cozy feeling like an actual wood fire does.
• More expensive to install.
• Potential for the gas burner to corrode over time and need replacing.
• The chance of a dangerous gas leak.
• The fire looks the same every time.

Outdoor Fireplace Styles

Outdoor fireplaces are constructed for both functionality and aesthetics. As mentioned earlier, you will want to match the style of your fireplace to the style of your home and patio.

Traditional Outdoor Fireplace Style

This style would remind you of fireplaces found in log cabins which give off some rustic vibes. They are usually made out of stones and bricks for a cozier home atmosphere. To achieve a complete traditional look, the fuel recommended for this fireplace is wood. However, they can also be outfitted with a gas or electric insert if you desire.

Contemporary Outdoor Fireplace Style

If your home has contemporary decors, I would recommend a contemporary fireplace designed to have sharp lines. Like the traditional fireplace, the materials used are stones, bricks, and concrete, but a more contemporary feel.

Modern Outdoor Fireplace Style

Some outdoor fireplaces double as a piece of art. If you have a modern styled home, instead of using the usual brick and stone, you can use materials such as glass and marble for a more futuristic and clean look. These might be looked at as more of an artistic focal point than a source of heat.

Outdoor Fireplace Materials

The outside covering of your fireplace is the first thing your guests will notice, and it is a distinctive design element that you should plan and style well if you want to add value to your property. Consider how your fireplace will blend in with your whole landscape. You should choose materials that will bring cohesiveness to the overall look of your property. If you can find the right material for your fireplace, it is possible for it to look as if it has been there from the begining.

Listed below are the common materials you can use for your outdoor fireplace project:

Brick

Bricks are made out of clay which naturally occurs in many states. These clays are shaped and heated in an oven to become durable. Where the clay originated will determine its color, ranging from cream to dark brown. If your home is built with brick, then it makes sense that you would want to extend the same aesthetic in your outdoor fireplace. Be sure to take the time to find a brick that compliments the color of the house.

Stone

Using stone to build your outdoor fireplace can give it a more natural look. You can use genuine stones or manufactured ones, depending on your budget. The pros of choosing this material are that it is long-lasting and extremely durable, you can choose from various earth stones, and has an upscale style. On the other hand, it also has its disadvantages. It is more expensive than other materials, and the installation is more complex.

Stucco

Stucco is made of Portland cement plaster which is factory-prepared, and this is a low-cost material typically applied to a concrete block understructure. Stucco can be reasonably reliable and durable but will tend to get dirty more quickly, and in places that freeze, a small crack in the stucco can let in water which can cause the stucco to fail in freezing temperatures. Homeowners who want to achieve a Spanish or Mediterranean look are better off choosing this material. It is readily available in multiple colors and it is not too heavy to ship, unlike stones and bricks.

Concrete

Concrete is very durable and is used in all types of construction. Many fireplaces are constructed of concrete, and it is a versatile product that can be formed into whatever shape you want. The downside of concrete, in my eyes, is the aesthetic appeal, and it is not the most attractive option to choose.

Outdoor Fireplace Safety Tips

When you add a heating feature to your outdoor living area, you also increase the risk of injuries and unexpected fire.

• Clear your yard waste. Any debris and yard waste can become a hazard if they contact hot embers or fire.
• Only use the intended fuel. Don’t burn any material in your outdoor fireplace other than what is meant to be burnt in it.
• Prune trees and shrubs that are near your outdoor fireplace. Low-hanging branches, bushes, and shrubs that grow near your outdoor fireplace need to be regularly pruned so they won’t catch fire.
• Use safety screens. Add a safety screen on your outdoor fireplace to serve as a barrier between the fire and your guests. This will prevent embers from blowing or popping out of the firebox.
• Store firewood far from your fireplace. Even though it is convenient to store wood near your fireplace, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) does not recommend this since it can increase fire risk. It would be better to store your firewood 30 feet away from any structure.
• Don’t let kids play with the fire. This one is pretty obvious. Kids are naturally curious and playful. If you put something as exciting as a fireplace in your yard, they are bound to play with it. The last thing you need is a kid running through the yard swinging a flaming stick. Teach them how to deal with fire and how to stay safe.
• Don’t light your fireplace and leave. Leaving any fire unattended is a terrible idea. Many forest fires are started by embers left glowing in a fire.
• Stock up on emergency supplies. It is required that you keep emergency supplies on hand just in case an unexpected fire occurs. Some of the essential items you should have are buckets of sand, a water hose, and a fire extinguisher.
• Use the correct log size for wood fireplaces. Wood-burning outdoor fireplaces can be dangerous if you use wood that is too big for your setup. All your logs must fit on the firebox to ensure that it is safe for you and your guests. Over-stuffing a firebox will only result in a dangerous fire that blackens the front of your fireplace with soot.
• Maintain a distance between your furniture and the fireplace. Most patio furniture is flammable, so keep it far enough away so that it won’t catch fire.
• Completely extinguish the fire when you are done. Many people leave a fire and go into the house for the night when it is still lit or glowing, and this is always dangerous. Fully extinguish your fire when you are done.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does it Cost to Build an Outdoor Fireplace?

According to Home Advisor, the cost of building an outdoor fireplace is between $1,500 to $20,000. Meanwhile, if you opt for pre-made kits, expect to pay $1,500 to $9,000. On the other hand, custom projects will run you from $8,000 to $50,000, depending on your fireplace design and your budget.

Do Outdoor Fireplaces Need a Chimney?

The need for a chimney depends on the type of fireplace. Gas fireplaces are designed to operate without needing a vent. On the other hand, wood-burning fireplaces always have a chimney to direct smoke upwards. 

What Direction Should an Outdoor Fireplace Face?

Many experts suggest that outdoor fireplaces should be built so that the back wall faces the wind. This is primarily to control the fire and reduce the smoke produced by burning wood, and this also works to protect you and your guests from sudden gusts of the wind.

How Far Does an Outdoor Fireplace Need to be From the House?

In general, your outdoor fireplace should be set up about 10 to 20 feet away from your house or any structure that might be flammable. Note that this is only the minimum distance. The farther it is from your indoor living space, the better.

Final Thoughts: Is Building an Outdoor Fireplace a Good Choice?

There is no definite answer as to whether building an outdoor fireplace is a good choice for you. It will all depend on your location and how often you will use it. If your area allows building one without any restrictions, then you are quite lucky! All you have to consider is whether you will utilize it.

I hope this guide taught you all you need to know about outdoor fireplaces and why they are popular right now. Make sure that you bookmark this page so you can review this once you are already in the process of building your fireplace.

We have all been looking for new ways to enjoy our living spaces, and there is something just so inviting about dining al fresco. For starters, you get to be outside in the sun and fresh air, and you get to enjoy the scenery and share a meal with your loved ones. You also have more space to do some on-the-spot cooking like Korean Samgyeopsal or barbecues, and you don’t need to worry about greasing up your kitchen. 

To make this type of dining possible, you could have a simple grill and a picnic table, but if you enjoy the finer things in life, you absolutely must have an outdoor kitchen situated in your yard. Of course, it must be equipped with the right features and appliances so it can serve both you and your guests.

In this article, we will cover the benefits of building an outdoor cooking space and some valuable tips on building one. If you are undecided about whether you should start building, consider this as a sign. After all, I’m here to help you get started.

What is an Outdoor Kitchen?

An outdoor kitchen is an area outside your house where you can prepare a meal and dine with other people. It is mainly composed of a heating element like a grill, a stove, or an oven, and it offers more room for movement and activities since it is located in an open space.

Most people find it more enjoyable to dine outside, especially when the weather is hot. This is especially true for tropical areas which experience a humid climate all year round. The outdoor kitchen doesn’t always need to be especially grand, but it must be appointed well enough to serve its purpose of making preparing and serving the outdoor meal a pleasurable experience.

Another great reason to build an outdoor kitchen is to alleviate some of the closed-inclosed-in feeling of life during this awful pandemic. Sure, maybe you should stay home, but wouldn’t it be nice to get outside and enjoy a bit of fun with your dinner?

No matter what your reason for getting interested in outdoor kitchens is, the process of building one can be tricky. Prepare your notes or bookmark this page since this guide offers everything you need to know about this essential addition to your landscape.

13 Benefits‌ ‌of‌ ‌Outdoor‌ ‌Kitchens‌ 

If you aren’t convinced yet that adding an outdoor kitchen to your backyard is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make, take a look at its long list of benefits:

1. It can be built to fit your specific needs and wants. A simple Google search will give you an idea of the number of designs available for your kitchen project. Pinterest and Instagram also offer a lot of unique “inspos” you can choose from.
2. It‌ ‌can‌ ‌reduce‌ ‌your‌ ‌power‌ ‌consumption. You might be confused— is it possible that adding another feature to your home reduces energy consumption? Well, yes, it is! Outdoor kitchens help you save on utility bills, especially during the summer months. Instead of kicking your AC into overdrive, choosing to cook outside in the open air is more practical. Remember that when you bake or make anything that generates heat, your house temperature elevates, making your AC work twice as hard to cool the space down.
3. It’s‌ ‌easy‌ ‌to‌ ‌manage‌ ‌and‌ ‌clean. Of course, I’m not saying that you won’t have to clean at all. But having an outdoor kitchen significantly reduces the time you spend cleaning. If, for instance, a bit of food falls on the ground, you don’t need to worry about it. Heck, it will just be a bit of fertilizer for the lawn.
4. Outdoor kitchens can make use of the yard space to‌ accommodate ‌large‌ ‌crowds. It might be a bit uncomfortable moving around in a crowded indoor kitchen filled with guests. Now imagine them all out in your yard with plenty of elbow room. Go ahead, invite the neighborhood!
5. You‌ ‌can‌ ‌work‌ ‌on‌ ‌it‌ ‌without‌ ‌rushing. Outdoor kitchens are simply an extension of your living space. That being said, if you want to start your project and build it slowly because you want to do it yourself or you’d rather do it a bit at a time to fit it into the budget, it won’t be a problem. You can work on it anytime you want and still use your indoor kitchen and be completely comfortable in the meantime.
6. It keeps an unwanted smell outside. I alluded to this in the first paragraph. Sure, coming home to the smell of dinner being cooked is usually quite pleasing, but there are some dishes that tend to really stink up the kitchen. Wouldn’t it be nice to have the option of cooking them in the great out of doors so that your entire house doesn’t smell like greasy cooked pork bellies? Outside, the scents will simply drift away on the breeze. Although, you may find yourself with some extra guests when the neighbors catch a whiff of what you’re cooking.
7. It reduces the trips in and out of the house. My least favorite part of having an outdoor meal is carrying everything out of the house, out to the patio, and then bringing it all back in again. It really gets a bit frustrating. If you build it correctly, you can have most of your supplies on hand in your outdoor kitchen. Cabinets, drawers, and a fridge are common additions to the outdoor kitchen. 
8. The value of your home will likely increase with the installation of an outdoor kitchen. If you plan to sell your property in the future, adding an outdoor kitchen will surely increase its value. The investment you’ll make in building or remodeling this area of your landscape can benefit you greatly since homes with outdoor kitchens have reportedly sold for almost 30% more than houses without outdoor kitchens. I believe that it is the functionality of the outdoor kitchen and the aesthetic appeal of having the extra structure and intrigue in your yard versus the flat patio with surrounding gardens.
9. It helps expand your living space. With the current tiny living trend, more and more houses are built with limited space. Of course, this can get tiring over time, especially since we are all required to stay at home due to the Covid situation. By extending your home through an outdoor kitchen, you have more space to move around and do some activities that cannot be done inside, like grilling or making smores.
10. It may help you save money on dining out. I know it’s not the same, but having a great outdoor kitchen with everything you need close at hand may encourage you to use it rather than go out. Dining in restaurants can be extremely pricey, and cooking a meal right outside your house can save you a few bucks, not to mention that it’s an excellent spot for a special meal without needing to brave the crowds or wait for a table.
11. Your quality of life will improve. We all need a bit of sunshine and fresh air, and too much time indoors robs us of both. Having a few meals a week outdoors could really increase your time out in nature. Cooking is a form of bonding for many families. Creating meals with our loved ones while enjoying some fresh air and a beautiful landscape puts us in a good mood, and our lives become a little bit less stressful.
12. The food you cook becomes tastier and healthier. One of the mainstays of outdoor kitchens is, of course, the grill. If done properly, you may be able to grill more of your food which will lessen the need for oils and frying, not to mention that the fats from your steak will end up on the grill rather than n your belly.
13. Cooking can be more diverse. Your indoor kitchen may not allow you to create certain meals that your outdoor kitchen can. Outdoor kitchens can have open flame areas, smokers, pizza ovens, and almost any type of specialty cooking item that you might be lacking in your existing kitchen.

Materials

Since these kitchens are constructed outdoors, building them using anything other than the most weather-resistant materials would be foolish. Here are the most common materials chosen.

• Poured concrete is a very versatile material that can be used for patios, seat walls, cabinets, countertops, and even roofs. While most of us consider concrete to be relatively industrial and not particularly aesthetically appealing, in the hands of an experienced artisan, this extremely durable material can be rock solid as well as beautiful.
• Concrete brick and block are used to build the majority of outdoor kitchens that I see. It is attractive, durable, and easy to use. There are many color and size choices, and contractors or skilled do-it-yourselfers can install them.
• Natural stone is again very durable and probably the most visually appealing choice. Stone is most often used for countertops and walls.
• Wood is a very versatile building material that can be used for all aspects of the outdoor kitchen, but it is flammable, can be chewed by animals, and does decay over time when left out in the elements. Wood is usually only used for structures such as pergolas or gazebos.
• Steel can be used to build all aspects of the outdoor kitchen, with stainless steel being the most popular choice for its weather resistance. A custom-designed outdoor kitchen constructed entirely of stainless steel would be pretty pricey, so it is typically used for doors, appliances, and sometimes countertops. 

12 Considerations when Building an Outdoor Kitchen

Before you go ahead and contact a masonry expert or a landscape professional, you first have to look at some essential factors that can directly affect how your kitchen will look or what appliances it will contain.

1. How you are going to use your outdoor kitchen
   • Take some time and reflect upon who you are and how you might use the outdoor kitchen. There is no sense in building a huge area if you aren’t the type that enjoys entertaining, and maybe it just needs to be big enough for the family.
   • On the other hand, if you love to have a home full of guests, you will want a much more expansive outdoor kitchen with plenty of room to work.
2. It should fit
   • You want it to suit the size of your home and your needs. A vast, sprawling outdoor kitchen may look out of place next to a tiny house, but it might be just right for you if you spend all of your time outdoors.
   • A large house with a tiny outdoor kitchen may not look balanced and might not sell for as much on the real estate market as it would if it were in fitting with the house size. Scale is important.
3. The area where you live
   • Let’s face it, some parts of the world just lend themselves to outdoor dining, while others, not so much. You will want to design and build your outdoor kitchen in a way that fits your climate.
   • If you are in an area that is warm and comfortable most days of the year, you are in a great position to build your kitchen with all of the amenities and in just about any style that you want. You will likely get plenty of use out of it and your money back, plus some when you go to sell your home.
4. Should it be covered?
   • If you live in a very dry and hot location, you will almost certainly want to include some sun shade elements and maybe even fans to keep yourself and your guests comfortable. A big fabulous outdoor kitchen doesn’t do much good if you are in the house in the air conditioning.
   • If you are in a place where it is raining many days of the year, you might be better off building a roof over your outdoor kitchen and even a covered walkway leading to the kitchen rather than an extensive outdoor kitchen that doesn’t get used due to the weather.
   • In the northern regions where the cold wind drives you inside many days of the year, you will want to build your kitchen with some structure to block winds and give you some nice cozy areas where you can install some outdoor heaters to make your new kitchen more user friendly for a better part of the year.
5. Appliance and fixture choices
   • The climate in your area will also influence some of your appliance choices. Things like refrigerators and wine coolers don’t do as well in freezing temperatures or may need to be moved indoors for the winter months. 
   • Water lines and sink traps will need to be drained for the winter months if freezing occurs in your area. Tropical climates or places on the sea will undoubtedly require appliances made from marine-grade stainless steel for longevity.
6. The frequency of its usage
   • When you build an outdoor kitchen, it should not only serve as an aesthetic addition to your backyard but should also be very much functional. 
   • If you think you will be using the new kitchen for most meals, you will want to buy higher grade, more industrial appliances. If you like the idea of having the outdoor area but don’t like to cook and think it won’t be used often, put your money into the structure and get decent, but maybe not top-of-the-line appliances.
7. Storage
   • As previously discussed, your outdoor kitchen will likely include some storage areas. How you use these storage areas will depend significantly on their construction. For a good reason, most outdoor kitchens are built using concrete or stone products and stainless steel. This kitchen will be out in the elements and must be rodent resistant.
   • Whether you see them or not, I can guarantee that you have some little sneaky chewing, nibbling, and pooping critters in your area. The last thing that you want is to give them great places to make their homes and then stock them with edibles. Remember, rodents classify edibles very differently than we do. You will be surprised at the wide range of things they’ll chew on.
   • While wooden facias and features might soften the look and feel of your outdoor kitchen, they certainly won’t help with rodent-proofing. All storage areas must be built so that mice can’t get in. Remember that these little critters can go anywhere they can fit their heads, so even tiny little holes will be enough to invite the mouse family in for the winter. Make sure that your kitchen is well built and has latching doors so that even the crafty and curious raccoon won’t be able to gain access.
8. Access to your house 
   • No matter how well thought out and appointed your outdoor kitchen is, you will still want it reasonably close to the house because you will surely be running back and for some of the stuff. Make it convenient to encourage your family to use it more.
9. Layout is important
   • Just because this kitchen is outdoors doesn’t mean that it can be built however you want. Be sure to follow good kitchen layout practices when laying out this outdoor area. Once again, if it is not convenient, you will use it less. If you put all of the money into building it, make sure that it is an excellent place to cook a meal. 
10. Distance from the outdoor dining or entertainment area
    • In every gathering, whether it is for the family or friends and colleagues, It may go without saying, but we’d better say it anyway. The cooking and entertaining areas should be all located centrally, so that everyone, including the cook, can be part of the party and enjoy themselves. Remember, this is all about enjoyment. Make sure it is for everyone.
11. Function and the Future
    • When laying out and building this outdoor kitchen, be sure that you have thoroughly thought out and planned for all possible conditions. This will likely be a sizable construction project that will require trenching to the house for electrical wires, gas lines, and water pipes. You don’t want to build all of this only to find out that you should have run one additional water pipe or electrical line. Even if you don’t think you will need them at this time, installing an extra electrical circuit and a water supply and drain to accommodate future needs will be a small expense compared to trying to do it later.
12. Location and Position
    • Be sure to position the kitchen, seating areas, and dining areas to face a great view and also be sure to position them to take advantage of the sun and to help block the prevailing winds.

Outdoor Kitchen Zones

It’s about time we get to the technical side of things. An outdoor kitchen is not just composed of a grill and a countertop for food prep. It is composed of four zones, and each has a purpose. They are discussed in detail below:

Preparation Zone

Before the meat hits the pan, it is cleaned, cut, and seasoned by the designated cook or chef. There should be a wide counter space to do all of this prep work.

The prep zone, as most people call it, is usually composed of a countertop, a sink, and a fridge. Other items that should be found in this area to make the food preparation hassle-free are cutting boards, knives, food processors, and cooking utensils. Ingredients that are needed for additional flavors are also commonly found here.

Cooking Zone

The cooking zone is obviously where the magic happens. This is where you’ll usually find the grill, the pizza oven, the smoker, the side burners, etc. Apart from all these appliances, you can also find cooking accessories in this zone, such as tongs, spatulas, and ladles.

The most used feature of the cooking zone is the grill. Therefore, paying attention to its location and its ventilation should be one of your top priorities.

Serving Zone

Right after the food is cooked, it is brought to the serving zone or a kitchen island for plating and serving. If the guests are only a few, they may be able to dine here, so adding a few barstools might be a welcome addition.

If your budget doesn’t allow for a separate kitchen island, you can certainly use the dining area as the serving zone.

Entertainment Zone

The fourth outdoor kitchen zone is dedicated to entertainment. This is where the people can lounge and have some drinks without getting in the way of those who are preparing for food.

The primary appliance that should be found in this area is a refrigerator for refreshments, and this is different from the one situated in the prep zone. Some people also choose to add a keg fridge or a wine cooler. You will also want to have a selection of drinkware readily available for your guests.

Depending on your intentions, this area could include lounging areas and even a television or hot tub.

‌Outdoor‌ ‌Kitchen‌ Layout ‌

Your outdoor kitchen’s configuration or layout will greatly depend on the available space, design, and budget. Below are your common layout options once you start planning:

Linear

As the name suggests, this is the simplest and easiest to achieve since it does not take any shape. 

For many homeowners, their outdoor kitchen may be connected to the house with countertops flanking the grill. However, freestanding linear kitchens can also be an option if attaching them alongside the owner’s home is impossible.

Galley

Similar to indoor galley kitchens, outdoor galleys have a central walkway, and the cabinets and countertops on both sides are facing each other. This forms a narrow rectangular work area, which saves on space but makes it difficult for any more than one person at a time to work in the kitchen.

This layout is much more appealing for some people since it is very ergonomic. All the essential services are clustered in a small space, making everything easily accessible. 

L-Shaped

L-shaped counters are quite popular for both indoor and outdoor kitchens since they feature more moving space. It is also ergonomic like the galley, so the cooking workflow is efficient.

Since this is a classic configuration, it allows for a lot of flexibility. You can add an island to the open space, or you can place a central dining set, and you can even add both if there is enough room since the L-shaped counters do not take much space.

U-Shaped

As you could probably imagine, this kitchen layout is composed of cabinets, counters, and appliances arranged in a U-shape. It has an open space in its center which can offer a lot of movement.

This is ideal even for a small outdoor kitchen because it capitalizes on the counter space. Meanwhile, you can add a dining table or an island for large kitchens to maximize the layout further.

Outdoor‌ ‌Kitchen‌ ‌Cover‌ ‌

There is no doubt that outdoor kitchens can be functional and fun to use; mother nature can certainly have her way with our dinner plans if we don’t build our outdoor kitchens to defend against her sometimes sudden and unexpected onslaughts.

There are countless ways to design your kitchen to protect it from the weather to some extent. A few examples are listed below.

Gazebo

You’ll often hear the words gazebo, pavilion, or pergola used interchangeably, but the two are distinct from each other.  

Gazebos and pavilions will typically be round, square, or rectangular and have a weather-tight roof.

Gazebos are traditionally built using lumber, but there are certainly many that have masonry bases. Many pre-built metal or PVC gazebos can be purchased at big box stores and assembled at home.

Pergola

Pergolas consist of columns that serve as the support for beams and rafters. One distinguishing characteristic of this type of outdoor covering is its Italian feel which can be attributed to the fact that they were first designed during the Italian Renaissance. 

Pergolas do not have a weather-tight roof; instead, the beams or rafters offer dappled sun protection and a handy place to grow vines.

They can be almost any shape, although they are often rectangular or square.

These are traditionally wooden structures, but other pre-built options are available at retail locations like gazebos.

Canopy

Among the three types of outdoor kitchen covers, canopies are the least expensive and the easiest to install. There are different sizes and designs to choose from, which makes them very versatile, but most must be fastened to the house, limiting their use for some people. Some are permanent structures, while others can be rolled up when not used.

Must-Have Outdoor‌ ‌Kitchen Appliances and Accessories

This article would not be complete without the list of appliances and accessories you have to purchase to make your outdoor kitchen functional. These items aren’t exactly cheap so prioritize the ones you will be using more often.

• Grill: Whether your outdoor kitchen is large or tiny, you will definitely need a grill. The choice of whether to install a gas, charcoal, or wood-fired grill could fill an entire article, so let it be said that this topic is very personal for some folks, and you need to decide which you enjoy the most. Or, if cost is no object, maybe install all three.
• Side Burner: This, of course, makes your outdoor kitchen much more versatile and more similar to your indoor kitchen. A side burner or cook space has a multitude of uses.
• Traditional Oven: This might not be a common choice, but it greatly expands the versatility of your outdoor kitchen and can significantly expand your ability to prepare full meals for large groups.   
• Refrigerator / Freezer: Your refreshments need to be chilled, and your food needs to be cooled or frozen if you plan to store any in your outdoor kitchen. Many outdoor kitchens will do well, with one fridge in the prep area for the food and another fridge in the entertaining area for drinks.
• Trash Bin: This might seem unnecessary, but if you are truly going to use your outdoor kitchen as a kitchen, you will undoubtedly need a trash bin of some sort to make clean up easy and convenient. Make sure that it is rodent and weatherproof.
• Pizza Oven: Who doesn’t love pizzas, right? Here you can go all out and install a brick pizza oven to create fire-cooked pizza creations, or you can just install an electric drawer style oven to cook the frozen pizzas quickly and easily.
• Flat Top Griddle: This one depends entirely on your needs and wants. Some people may never use a griddle in an outdoor kitchen, and others might use it more than the grill. You know which one you are.
• Power Burner: Again, will you use this or not? It can be gas or electric and makes your outdoor kitchen much more like your indoor kitchen. Some people will love it while others will never use it.
• Sink: I believe a sink is a must-have item for all but the smallest outdoor kitchens. You will have trouble cooking serious meals in your outdoor kitchen without a sink for food prep and cleaning.
• Warming Drawer: This low-heat cooking device ensures that your food stays heated if you will not consume it immediately. Wonderful if preparing large meals for many guests, probably overkill for small gatherings.
• Mixer/Food Processor: A good quality blender can often come in handy for food prep or frosty drinks.
• Television: Many weatherproof choices can give you more reason to stay in the great outdoors.
• Speakers/Music: You can either install an entire sound system or simply a Bluetooth exterior grade speaker so that you can enjoy some music in your entertaining area and kitchen.
• WiFi:  Maybe your house WiFi will reach the outdoor kitchen, but if not, you might want to install an extender.
• Lighting: There are many lighting options for your outdoor kitchen, including color-changing and lights that will change with the music if you are so inclined.
• Outlets/Charging Stations: If you want the kids to use the space, you better have extra plugs around so they don’t need to run back in the house to plug in.
• Pool/Hot Tub: Okay, this might be going a bit far, but if you want the ultimate outdoor entertaining space, a hot tub or pool might just be the icing on the cake.
• Bar Stools: If your outdoor kitchen includes a built-in bar or island, then you will need some stools.
• Patio Dining Set: Well, they are all going to need to be able to sit down and eat this fabulous meal that you created for them, aren’t they?
• Seating / Lounging: Aside from the chairs included in the dining set, you should also consider adding some lounge chairs in your kitchen’s entertainment zone so your guests will be more comfortable.
• Fireplace: The addition of a fireplace can really make this an all season entertainment zone and will add more beauty and structure to your site.
• Wine Cooler: This keeps wine bottles chilled to a specific temperature. This also allows self-serving, so that’s less work for you.
• Ice Maker/Ice Storage: If you don’t want to run out of ice during a party, then an ice maker is a worthy purchase.
• Shelves/Cabinets: Tidying up your outdoor kitchen starts with a clean countertop. You might want some shelves or cabinets to help with storage.
• Glassware Storage: A functional storage area or glass rack where your guests can serve themselves will be invaluable at large gatherings.
• Fire Pit: Parties don’t have to end at sundown, so I strongly suggest that you add a fire pit to your entertaining area.
• Patio Heater: A great alternative to fire pits and a must if you are in some of the colder areas of the world and you want to get the most out of your outdoor kitchen.

Final Thoughts: Should You Start Working on Your Outdoor Kitchen?

Adding an outdoor kitchen to your property is a wise investment. As established in this article, there are a lot of benefits that you can enjoy once you decide to build one. But, you need to make sure that it is functional and that it fits your house and your budget. 

Don’t rush into an outdoor kitchen project. If you don’t do your planning, whether you choose to do it yourself or to hire it done, you may end up with a less than ideal outdoor kitchen.

Hopefully, this article can help you decide if an outdoor kitchen would be an advantage for you and your family.

An often overlooked aspect of the landscape plan is the walkway design. Our attention is often focused on the main attraction – be it a pond, a swimming pool, a garden, a patio, or anything else of interest in the yard. We might take the walkway for granted because we think we just need a simple path or sometimes no path at all to get from point A to point B. The correct way to design a walkway would be to lay out all of the hard surfaces prior to designing the landscape so that the softscapes can accent the hardscapes, not the other way around. You need to get the main skeleton in place before you start dressing it up. 

By neglecting the walkway design, we may unknowingly risk the following:

• The garden may become disjointed or may lack cohesion with the house. 
• Access to the house or the yard may be inconvenient or even cumbersome.
• A simple path may become unsafe. 
• The trail may become muddy and uninviting.
• You may end up needing to remove some landscape elements to install a new walk.

If the path is well thought out, there will be benefits to be enjoyed:

• Well-defined walking areas.
• A clear path of travel through the yard.
• A cohesive and comfortable garden and landscape. 
• An inviting and easily accessible path to key areas of the yard.
• Advanced planning and doing things in the correct order will always save time and money in the long run.

To help you develop a good walkway plan, we’ve listed some essential guidelines. On this page, we will be covering the following topics that contribute to the creation of a good walkway design:

• Materials
• Width Guidelines
• Budget and Cost
• Helpful Tips
• Design Ideas

Design Considerations

Here are some of the most important points to consider when planning your walkway.

Function – What is the purpose of the walkway?

When planning a walkway, the first question is; what is the purpose? A walkway to welcome guests from the road to your home will be much more grand in both design and size than a simple path back to the herb garden. 

The walkway going to the house’s front door will likely have much more foot traffic than the path into the backyard. Also, this front walk will be used by delivery people, movers, friends, and family, so it needs to be designed to suit all types of visitors. A primary walkway’s design needs to be sturdy, solid, wide, and smooth to accommodate a wheelchair, persons carrying or rolling heavy objects, and to prevent people from tripping.

It is often wider to allow at least two people to pass simultaneously or wide enough to be carrying grocery items or other stuff going to the house. The choice of material will be driven by its purpose as well as its aesthetic value. You will typically be choosing a very hard, solid surface such as concrete or stone. 

For the path that leads to the garden, the foot traffic and its usage will be considerably less. This is called a secondary walkway or an auxiliary walkway. This pathway may branch out from the primary walk, or it may be entirely separate. Its purpose is often a route for a casual stroll through the yard or garden, but it could also be used for utilitarian reasons such as yard work and maintenance. Its width and material requirements are usually much more flexible than the front walk. It can be a simple gravel path, a wooden walkway, or even a casual stepping stone trail through the garden. While this path is typically more narrow, keep in mind that it may need to be wide enough for garden carts or wheelbarrows.

Aesthetics – How do you want the walkway to look?

When planning a walkway, consider choosing a design and material that will complement and blend visually with the style and architecture of the house. This will help create cohesiveness in the overall theme of the property. For example, if you have a modern-looking home, you don’t want a traditional or historic-looking brick-layered pathway to go with it as it will look off-sync. But matching it with a geometrically shaped walkway design may be more appropriate as it complements the house design better.    

When planning a walkway, consider whether you would like to create a formal or informal feeling. A straight line type of walkway evokes a formal mood or works well if you want to get to a particular destination quickly or conveniently. This works well with the primary walkway, where you prefer a quick walk from the driveway to the house’s front door. An informal or casual walkway uses curves and makes for a more relaxing walk. Bends in a curved path allow for opportunities to place interesting plants or statues along the way. An informal walkway works best in a secondary path where the goal is not only to get to your destination (perhaps a pond, a fountain, a patio, or even a garden plot) but to enjoy the journey getting there. The opportunity to stop now and then to enjoy an interesting plant or feature along the way is often a good excuse for a widening of the path to accommodate a small bench or chair.

Safety – Make this a priority.

Consider also the safety aspect of the walkway. Make sure a smooth walkway has proper drainage and does not collect water. For example, in a primary walkway, because of the amount of traffic and frequency of use, a smooth and non-slip surface would be recommended. It is less of a concern for a secondary pathway, but you should still make sure there are no protruding roots or uneven tripping obstacles. Also, consider the placement of lawn sprinklers so that they don’t overspray the walks and create slippery or stained spots.

Another thing to consider would be the placement of walkway lights in the design. Make sure the path is well lit and does not have dark spots on the path. This will make for a very pleasant stroll through the garden regardless of the time of day.

Budget – How much do you intend to spend?

Knowing the budget for your walkway project means you will be able to accomplish what you envisioned without going overboard. Having a clear and concise budget will help you decide on materials as well as the overall scale of the project. It will also help you determine whether you will be able to hire a contractor or if this will need to be a do-it-yourself project.

 Materials

Having considered the critical points in a walkway design, we can now consider material choices. By knowing the pros and cons of each type of material, we will better understand which option to choose.

Turfgrass

While turf is never a good choice for the main front walkway, it is often a reasonable choice for some backyard paths. Walking on a turfgrass surface is like strolling on a golf course; it’s comfortable, looks neat, and blends well with flowering plants. It seamlessly unites your garden areas into one single garden rather than separate areas of the yard. It’s also easy to install using seed or sod and can be formed to almost any size and shape. Just make sure the path is wide enough to be able to use the mower.

A turfgrass path is relatively high maintenance when compared to many other surfaces, but the installation costs are very low. Turfgrass needs sufficient sun and nutrients to grow, so it will be a challenge in some of the yard’s more shaded and poor soil areas. Lastly, it’s not suitable for high-traffic areas as the soil tends to compact, and the turf will tend to thin with extensive wear.

Mulch

Mulch is one of the simplest and easiest ways to create a path. It makes use of natural waste products such as wood chips, cocoa beans, and bark which can often be obtained at very low or no cost. Contact your local tree trimming service, a lumberyard, or a woodwork shop to find out if they have excess wood products to dispose of.

Mulch is light and very easy to spread. A layer of 3 or 4 inches may be enough to create your path and to block most weeds and turf, but be aware that this mulch will decay rather quickly, resulting in the need to replenish it every couple of years.

The upside of this, when used for a garden path, is that it replenishes nutrients in the soil as it decomposes. 

Mulch is easily moved by high winds and water flow, as well as just being kicked around by foot traffic.

Mulch paths should never be used for front door walkways or too close to formal yard areas and are better suited for woodland paths where they blend in seamlessly.

Lumber

Nothing compares to the feeling of walking on wood nor to its flexibility of design options that blend well with the outdoor landscape. A wooden walkway never fails to evoke a certain charm. Wooden walkways or boardwalks consistently rank high on the wish lists of homeowners. Depending on the design, they are attractive, fairly durable, and can be formal or casual. Another positive aspect of a wooden walkway would be that many people may feel more comfortable working with wood rather than stone or concrete products. They can be designed to work in almost any situation, bridge wet areas, include steps and handrails for sloped areas, and have a host of other design options. 

Keep in mind that we are once again talking about wood, so it will be nowhere near as durable or long-lasting as stone or concrete walkways. We would typically not use a wooden walkway for a front entrance, but it is often used in backyard settings and goes well with wooden decks. A wooden walkway is susceptible to moisture, sunlight, and termites, so it needs to be treated well and often. Lastly, it can be slippery after rain, and cleaning the mud from its grooves can be challenging.

Gravel and Crushed Stone

Gravel or crushed stone is a popular choice of material because of its functionality, practicality, durability, and cost. Stone products for walkways are often ordered in bulk by the ton and can typically be delivered right to your home and dumped in the driveway for you to apply at your leisure. The good thing about stone is that it is very durable, easy to install, and will practically last forever. The downside is that it is stone, so it is heavy to move and place. Gravel and stone paths offer good drainage, have low-maintenance requirements, and can withstand heavy traffic. While the path material will last a very long time, it will still need some maintenance. 

On the downside, because the gravel pieces are loose, they can spill out into garden areas and get tracked into the house, so don’t use them near entryways. Also, it can pose a problem when placed in areas where you need to shovel snow. You should plan to order a bit of extra stone every few years to replenish low spots and to rake it smooth.  

I would always recommend installing landscape fabric below any loose stone path to prevent the gravel and dirt from mixing and prevent weeds from popping through the walk. You should also plan to skim off a bit of topsoil if your walk is to be installed through soft fertile ground.

Flagstone or Stepping-stones 

Flagstones or stepping stones are typically made of stone that naturally breaks out of the quarry in layers, such as limestone, bluestone, and some sandstones. It is typically 1-2 inches thick and durable, yet relatively easy to cut or fracture to shape.

It can be purchased in specific patterns or shapes to be laid in a more formal pattern, or it can be purchased in randomly broken pieces that can be used individually as a stepping stone path or can be pieced together like a puzzle in a detailed walkway.

There is little need for any prep or excavation when used as a random stepping stone path through a garden. Simply flatten out the area beneath each stone and lay them down. Any number of different materials or plants can fill in the gaps in a walkway like this. Common materials are turfgrass, mulch, gravel, sedum, mosses, etc.

When installed in pattern, it is advisable to first excavate to hardpan, prep a crushed stone base and lay the stone on that. The stones are durable enough to handle heavy foot traffic, but depending on the installation, they may move and create tripping hazards, especially in areas prone to freezing ground.

Flagstone has long been used for both formal, grand front walkways as well as meandering random garden paths. The difference is typically installation method more than stone variations.

Poured Concrete

If you are looking for a walkway material that’s relatively affordable and very durable, concrete might be the answer. Concrete is a very durable and low-maintenance pathway solution but possibly not the most aesthetically pleasing choice. It is no longer limited to a solid gray, monotonous color but can be shaped, stained, colored, etched, or engraved with a bit of imagination. This makes it versatile and popular for DIY projects.

Like any walkway material, concrete does have some issues. Some cheaper colored concrete products may chip or fade over time, making for a more dull or less desirable surface. Sealants can help prolong the color, but this can be an added maintenance procedure. 

Concrete requires curing time upon completion, so it cannot be used immediately, and once it is cured, it may require a jackhammer to remove it, so you had better be sure that you have all of your design decisions figured out prior to pour day. It is one of the most durable products you can choose, and when poured thick enough, it can be almost timeless. It will crack over time in frost-prone areas and when not installed correctly. It is hard to repair if it does crack or chip, and the repaired area will never look the same as the original. When pouring and finishing concrete for outdoor paths, be sure to leave a brushed surface for traction rather than a smooth polished surface like what might be used indoor.

Clay Brick 

Brick is a relatively durable material with great design flexibility and options. It is well suited to grand front walkways as well as quaint garden paths. It is made from clay, so it looks very natural and can be laid in countless patterns. It will hold up well to heavy traffic and ages nicely when installed correctly.

Like most hard surface materials, base preparation is the key factor in the long-term quality of the walkway. Brick is typically laid in one of two ways.

Dry laid – this requires excavating to hardpan and preparing a compacted base of crushed stone on which to set the brick. The walkway would be typically edged with mortar, plastic or metal, to keep the brick in place. This can last many lifetimes if done properly, but it will move a bit with the freeze and thaw in areas prone to this.

Wet Laid over slab – in this method, the brick is mortared down to a poured concrete base, making it very durable and long-lasting but prone to cracking like a poured concrete slab would be.

Brick can be more expensive and tedious to install than concrete pavers or other materials due to its small size and the need for proper prep and alignment. Some brick can be prone to cracking in wet areas that are prone to freezing, as moisture can seep into the clay brick and force a crack when it freezes.

Pavers 

The term pavers typically refers to any shape of man-made concrete products manufactured to look like clay brick or stone. They can be almost any size or shape and come in a vast range of colors and patterns. It has become a favorite walkway choice because of its diversity, durability, and economical cost.

Because they are made out of concrete, they are very durable and long-lasting. They can be purchased in interlocking shapes that are great for heavy-use areas. 

Once again, these pavers can be installed in the same fashion as listed above with clay bricks. The casual onlooker may not know the difference between some brick pavers versus clay bricks or natural stone. 

Mixed Materials

You can combine different materials and techniques to create pathways to meet almost any aesthetic desire or taste. Many have combined stone, gravel, brick, and concrete to create one-of-a-kind walkways that are both unique to their property and very durable and timeless.

Walkway Width Guidelines

How wide should a walkway be? The width of a walkway will usually depend on its purpose, where it is located, and what it leads to and from. A primary front walkway needs to accommodate passing foot traffic as well as package carts, furniture dollies and all sorts of different transportation devices. The rule of thumb for a primary walkway is to be four feet wide, which will allow two people to walk comfortably side-by-side, but you will often see three-foot-wide primary paths that do the trick.

A secondary pathway is narrower and usually wide enough for a single person. These secondary walks can be almost any width but are generally more narrow than the primary walkway and sometimes as sparse as a slight path of stepping stones. A comfortable walking path through the backyard is often two feet wide.

Walkway Budget and Cost

When installing a new walkway, the cost depends on several factors, such as the size of the path, the material you will use, and the complexity of the design. The price will also vary depending on your state and the contractor you will use if you choose to do so. 

Budget numbers are always tricky, and they often come down to the contractor. If you are lucky enough to find a seasoned crew that takes its time with installation and prides itself on quality, you may pay more than any of the costs listed below.

If you find yourself someone new to the business, you may find it cheaper than what is listed below, but you probably don’t want that contractor installing your walk. Corners will need to be cut, and those corners are usually cut in the base prep, which will result in a good-looking walk for the first few months that will deteriorate soon after.

To know the approximate cost of your walkway, you can use the following figures for your budget computation.

  Material Price Per Square Foot:

• Wood: $3 – 22
• Gravel: $1 – 5
• Flagstone: $15 – 30
• Poured Concrete: $5 – 16
• Stamped Concrete: $8 – 20
• Clay Brick: $10 – 30
• Pavers: $8 – 30

With a budget on hand, you can ask at least three contractors for an estimate. Compare the three professional estimates to get a fair price for your walkway project. Please keep in mind that the most challenging part of the installation is the base, so the cheaper bids will undoubtedly have less base work figured into the price. Less base will result in less long-term quality. With the professional estimates on hand, you will see if the cost is within your budget, or you may need to revise your plan to fit your budget. 

You can save on the cost if you make it into a DIY project, but this will depend on your skillset and willingness to work and learn. DIY doesn’t need to mean low quality. The right DIY project can be much cheaper and often better quality than the cheap contractor options simply due to the homeowner’s commitment and willingness to do the work when it gets hard.

Helpful Tips

Now that you have an idea of what is needed to design a proper walkway, there are some things to keep in mind.

Don’t hesitate to seek advice from pros early in the planning stage. Contractors and landscape architects will gladly answer questions specific to your site as they stand to gain, should they be awarded the project. You need to have clear specifications and designs if you expect to get comparable bids.

When interviewing and choosing contractors, it is often better to go with the person who seems more trustworthy and knowledgeable.

When making your walkway design, sketch out a layout plan on a piece of paper and mark it on the ground using twine, hoses, flags, or paint. This way, you will be able to visualize the walk and figure square footage accurately.

A curving path is more interesting than a straight path but always more challenging to install and thus more expensive. 

Most paths would require a crushed stone base to stay level for years to come. This base is anywhere from 4 inches to a foot or more, depending on the ground below. Laying any sort of base on top of soft friable topsoil will result in a walkway that moves over time.

For walkways to have proper drainage, they must be pitched. The pitch should not exceed more than 2% for primary walkways, or it will become a safety hazard when covered with water or ice. Secondary walkways can pitch with the ground or be stopped, but both types should be designed and installed to shed rather than collect rainwater and runoff.

When adding steps to offset the slope difference or to bridge height differences in the garden, keep all the steps’ height consistent; the suggested height is 6 to 7 inches. Anything less than 4 inches or above 7 inches can be a trip hazard, especially for older adults. If you break up the steps with landings, the landings should be around 4 to 5 feet to allow for a rhythm of movement.      

 Sprinklers near a sidewalk or walkway should be installed in an alternating pattern. This will provide complete coverage without overspray that may cause slippery walkways or unnecessarily wetting cars or pedestrians. 

 Before embarking on a project that will affect the frontage of your property, check with your local planning department or homeowners association for zoning laws. 

Take your time with all aspects of your walkway project. From the initial concept and design to the setting of the final stone, there is no need to rush. A walkway will be part of your property for generations to come, making it worth the effort.