Our Company Blog
Closing Down Your Outdoor Kitchen For The Season
When you are finished using your outdoor kitchen for the season, there are a few things you should do to preserve and protect it through the off season. Winter can be hard on surfaces and equipment that isn’t prepared. Many small things that can make a difference can slip your mind during your winter prep. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your winter prep, so that you can enjoy your outdoor kitchen again in the spring.
Remove Cloth
Even cloth that has been treated for water resistance and stain prevention can become damaged during winter. Remove all removable cloth and store in a dry area. This includes cushions, curtains, cabinet coverings, and pergola coverings.
Cover Anything That Holds Water
Anything that can hold water will. First snow will pack into a space, and then eventually melt, leaving standing water. Water will stain sinks, furniture, and flooring if it’s allowed to sit and rust. It will ruin cloth furniture if it’s not covered. You should cover your sink to prevent water and other debris from falling into it, clogging pipes, and staining. You can prevent water from filling furniture cup holders and penetrating cloth furniture by covering your furniture or storing it in a dry area. Other things, like a fire pit can be covered or turned over to keep from collecting water.
Disconnect Fuel and Water Supply
If you use a propane, or gas grill or fire pit, you should turn off all the fuel connections that you don’t plan to use this winter. Shut off the water supply to the sink and refrigerator, and unplug any appliances that are exposed to the weather.
Secure Cabinets
Make sure your cabinets are securely closed to prevent animal intrusion, as well as theft during the winter months.
Clean Surfaces and Cabinets
Use a cleaning solutions to clean the surfaces and cabinets of your outdoor kitchen. Make sure to remove any food products from the cabinets, as they will attract animals. Use your favorite grill cleaner to clean your grill, stove, and oven if you have one. Any bit of crumbs or grease can attract unwanted guests this winter.
Utilize Storage
Perhaps you still would like to use your fire pit or fire place, but won’t be using your cooking surfaces or appliances in the cold months. You can utilize the spaces in your outdoor kitchen to keep your furniture cushions close by. They may fit inside your cabinets or your refrigerator, where they’ll stay dry and you can easily grab them at will.
Your outdoor kitchen may be one of your favorite places. It is an investment, and part of your home, even if it’s outside. It’s important to protect it from damage, disrepair, and animal intrusion. You can close out your outdoor kitchen for winter and it will be ready with little difficulty this spring for your first cook-out. If you’re looking for a little more added protection, fall is the perfect time to build a custom structure. IBD Outdoor Rooms can find the perfect design for your needs, that will not only protect your outdoor kitchen this winter, but offer shade and protection year-round.
