Step 1: Watch an Overview Video

Step 2: Gather Your Materials and Tools

Materials and Tools:

pre-built outdoor kitchen sections
shovel
processed gravel
stakes
string
plate compactor
edge restraints
pavers
level
chalk line
rubber mallet
diamond blade wet saw
safety glasses
broom
masonry sand

Step 3: Design the Outdoor Space

Use pre-built sections for a quick outdoor kitchen installation.

Choose paver hues that harmonize with house. Gray pavers blend with brick house; brick colors add warmth to wood or stone house. Avoid monotony in floor with two colors or blended colors. Texture adds visual interest and character; use smoother textures in high traffic areas; stronger textures for patios and borders.

Create design reflecting existing accents and angles of house and outdoor space. Visual lines extended from home's corners, doors, and windows will create shapes that pull outdoor space into existing architecture.

Place focal points along sight lines easily visible from house.

Step 4: Hire a Contractor

Choose a contractor with experience and good references.

Make sure you understand the installation plan, and insist on a written, detailed contract and guarantee.

Step 5: Excavate the Patio Area

Power wash concrete foundation for kitchen.

Stake out area of lawn approximately 12 inches larger than area to be paved.

Tip: Area should slope away from building in direction of normal drainage 3/16 inch per foot. Use 3-4-5 triangle method to establish 90 degree corner at starting point.

Excavate 7 to 9 inches.

Lay base of 4 to 6 inches of processed gravel.

Use plate compactor to compact surface. Wetting surface will help with compacting.

Compact in layers until base is 3 to 3 1/2 inches from desired level of finished pavers.

Step 6: Lay the Pavers

Install edge restraints of PVC, aluminum, concrete or pressure-treated wood.

Lay 1 inch of sand on base.

Starting in 90-degree corner, lay pavers, working outward and keeping joints straight with chalk lines. Customize pattern to fit your space.

Leave 1/8-inch gap between pavers.

Use rubber mallet to tap pavers level.

Using a diamond blade wet saw, cut pavers to fit along edge restraints.

Sweep surface.

Step 7: Sweep Sand Into the Joints

Spread masonry sand over surface and sweep into joints.

Tamp the pavers with plate compactor in two or three passes.

Tip: Excess sand will cushion pavers from compactor.

Sweep excess sand over pavers to fill in joints and repeat over several days as rain settles sand.

Complete design with large planters in hues similar to pavers.