The Durable Cabinet Material You'll Want To Consider For Your Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor kitchens can transform patios and backyards, as they make it much easier to entertain guests and host gatherings. With these functional spaces, homeowners do not have to worry about transporting food from inside to outside and the inevitable messes and spills associated with that task. Outdoor kitchens are clearly beneficial, but it can be difficult to determine what materials are the best fit. Selecting the right cabinet materials is one of the most important steps in building an outdoor kitchen, and aluminum cabinets are a great option.
Kitchen cabinets that will be installed outdoors should be made out of a durable material that can withstand various weather conditions. Depending on where you live, you need to ensure that the material will not get damaged by rain, snow, extreme winds, dust storms, and more. Fortunately, aluminum is strong enough to survive these conditions without undergoing significant damage. It is also non-corrosive when maintained properly, so you do not have to worry about moisture or water damage.
Why you should consider aluminum cabinets for your outdoor kitchen
Impressive durability is only one of the many factors that make aluminum cabinets a perfect match for outdoor kitchens. They are typically coated with a protective powder that makes them anti-rust and even more weatherproof. They also don't crack, fade, or chip and don't require lots of maintenance. This might further boost your confidence in their ability to withstand the elements compared to other cabinet materials.
The powder coating is not only protective, but it also adds aesthetic appeal to aluminum cabinets. Powder-coating paint colors make these cabinets extremely customizable. You can select a color option that best suits your outdoor kitchen, including red, gray, white, or blue. A visually-appealing space will help you host parties and gatherings that are a hit with your friends and family, and it might even motivate you to spend more time outside.
Finally, aluminum is more affordable than some of the other materials that are used for outdoor cabinets. For example, aluminum cabinets cost about 40% less than stainless steel cabinets, which are also commonly used in outdoor kitchens (via The Fire Farm). Saving money on cabinets would free up more budget to maximize other areas of your outdoor living space, such as decor or patio furniture. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, aluminum cabinets are the better choice.
How aluminum cabinets compare to stainless steel cabinets
You might be more familiar with stainless steel outdoor cabinets. Although aluminum cabinets are more affordable, some homeowners prefer stainless steel cabinets for their backyard outdoor kitchens. The material is heavier than aluminum and does not dent as easily, so it is more beneficial for those who live in regions with frequent hail storms. However, this also means that those who may want a mobile outdoor kitchen may desire to use aluminum, since it's lighter and easier to move. Steel also does not absorb heat as easily as aluminum. This means that it may be preferred by those who live in climates with extreme heat.
Despite these differences, aluminum and stainless steel cabinets are also similar in many ways. They are both often designed to include powder-coated paint colors that allow for more customization. Both materials also require minimal maintenance. However, remember that aluminum is typically significantly more affordable than stainless steel. Since both cabinets present very similar benefits, you might find that aluminum cabinets offer more value for their cheaper cost.