Brick outdoor kitchen vs HDPE

Some of the most common materials for outdoor kitchen cabinetry include brick, HDPE, stainless steel, aluminum, and PVC.  

While each material has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, the ultimate value of your outdoor kitchen is primarily determined by its durability. Therefore, ensuring the longevity of your cabinetry material in outdoor conditions is crucial, providing you with a sense of security and confidence in your choice.

In this article, we will discuss two popular choices: brick and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and the specific considerations of both HDPE and brick outdoor kitchens. 

Brick Outdoor Kitchens

Brick offers a sturdy and durable foundation for a relatively inexpensive backyard outdoor kitchen solution. It primarily comprises clay, shale, or concrete, making it a robust and fire-resistant option.

It is commonly paired with appliances and stainless steel inserts for the cabinetry framework.

Opting for non-combustible (non-flammable) materials is also an excellent decision when constructing an outdoor kitchen. 

Bricks are non-combustible and offer high fire resistance. This inherent fire safety feature makes brick a much more secure option than a typical wood-frame outdoor kitchen. 

When exposed to the intense heat of a built-in grill, wood risks igniting. This not only poses a safety hazard to your property but also means potential losses in time and money invested in building your outdoor kitchen. 

By choosing brick, you can eliminate concerns about your BBQ island catching fire.

Considerations and Challenges of Brick Outdoor Kitchens

While the benefits of brick are numerous, there are considerations to keep in mind. 

Maintenance is arguably the chief among these, as brick surfaces require sealing to protect against moisture infiltration, which can lead to cracking and deterioration over time. 

The porous nature of brick means it’s more susceptible to stains, requiring periodic cleaning to maintain its appearance.

Prolonged exposure to moisture and weather conditions will ultimately cause bricks to crack and break, resulting in extra maintenance costs. 

Additionally, brick installation requires a contractor, particularly for projects requiring precise cutting and sizing of bricks. This means hiring a professional who might need to stay on-site for several weeks and potentially return for any necessary repairs.

Here are some important questions and considerations you should explore before deciding on a brick outdoor kitchen:

1. What is Your Budget?

• Initial Cost: Understand that the upfront cost of a brick outdoor kitchen can be higher than that of other materials due to the cost of materials and the labor-intensive installation process.
• Long-term Investment: Consider whether the brick’s durability and timeless appeal justify the initial investment in your particular situation.

2. What is Your Climate Like?

• Weather Resistance: Brick is well-suited for various climates, but it’s crucial to consider your local weather conditions. Ask yourself how well brick will withstand the extremes of your local climate year after year.
• Moisture and Frost: If you live in an area with high moisture or frequent freeze-thaw cycles, consider the implications for brick and the necessary preventive measures, such as sealing, to protect the structure’s integrity.

3. How Committed Are You to Maintenance?

• Sealing and Upkeep: Reflect on your willingness and ability to perform regular maintenance, such as sealing the brick to protect against moisture and cleaning to prevent staining.
• Repairs: Are you prepared for potential repairs that may arise due to weathering or accidental damage?

4. What Style and Aesthetics Are You Aiming For?

• Design Compatibility: Consider whether brick’s classic and rustic appearance complements the existing style of your home and landscape. Does it align with your personal aesthetic preferences?
• Customization: While brick offers a beautiful, timeless look, consider whether you are satisfied with the color and texture variations or prefer a material that allows for more control over the final appearance.

5. Do You Plan to Make Future Changes?

• Flexibility: Think about the likelihood of wanting to expand or modify your outdoor kitchen in the future. How important is it for you to have a material that can be easily adapted or altered?
• Matching Existing Brick: If your outdoor kitchen will be attached to or near your home, consider how well the new brick will match the existing structure, especially if your home is older and the brick has been weathered or is no longer available.

6. Sustainability and Eco-friendliness

• Environmental Impact: Brick is a sustainable building material compared to alternatives like HDPE, which can be made from recycled materials. According to recent studies, recycling facilities can transform HDPE furniture into new products up to ten times. Even better, most curbside recycling programs will accept your HDPE cabinets. 
• Energy Efficiency: Consider the role your outdoor kitchen will play in your home’s overall energy efficiency, especially if it is situated close to your house, which will affect heat absorption and dissipation.

HDPE Outdoor Kitchens

HDPE stands for High-Density Polyethylene, an incredibly tough thermoplastic. This versatile material regularly appears in several everyday products to repel water, heat, and corrosion.

From milk to shampoo containers, HDPE stands out as a reliable option for premium products that customers trust. This resilient material resists scratches, impacts, and falls. 

Additionally, HDPE safeguards the contents from temperature fluctuations, ensuring the longevity of your food or items stored in outdoor cabinets.

Advantages of HDPE Outdoor Kitchens

• Durability in Diverse Climates: One of the standout features of HDPE is its ability to withstand a wide range of weather conditions. Unlike brick, which may require sealing and can be susceptible to moisture and frost damage, HDPE is inherently resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew. This makes it a reliable choice for regions with high humidity, frequent rain, or coastal areas where salt air can accelerate corrosion in other materials.
• Low Maintenance Requirements: For those seeking a hassle-free outdoor kitchen, HDPE offers an appealing low-maintenance solution. It doesn’t require sealing, painting, or staining. Cleaning is straightforward—a simple wipe-down with soap and water keeps HDPE cabinets looking new. This ease of maintenance is a significant advantage over brick, which may require periodic sealing and cleaning to remove stains or mildew.
• Design Flexibility and Customization: HDPE comes in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing for a high degree of customization to match any design aesthetic. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant color to add a splash of personality to your outdoor space or a more subdued tone to blend seamlessly with your home’s exterior, HDPE offers versatility that brick constructions can’t match. Additionally, HDPE can be molded into an array of shapes and configurations, providing more options for customization than the fixed form of a brick.
• Sustainability and Environmental Impact: HDPE is often praised for its environmental credentials. Many HDPE products are made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan, contributing to a circular economy. In contrast, the production and disposal of brick can have a higher environmental impact, making HDPE an appealing choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
• Ease of Installation and Modification: Unlike the labor-intensive process of laying brick, HDPE outdoor kitchens are relatively easy to install, which can result in lower labor costs. This material is also lighter than brick, making it simpler to work with. If future modifications are needed, such as reconfiguring the layout or expanding the kitchen, HDPE allows for more straightforward adjustments than brick.

Considerations

Here are important considerations and questions to ask yourself before opting for an HDPE outdoor kitchen:

1. What Is Your Climate Like?

• Consider how HDPE performs in your local weather conditions. Will it be exposed to extreme temperatures, UV rays, or saltwater spray? HDPE is known for its resistance to various environmental factors, but understanding your specific conditions can help you assess its long-term durability in your setting.

2. What Maintenance Commitment Can You Manage?

• HDPE is touted for its low maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and water. Ask yourself if you’re looking for a kitchen that demands minimal upkeep compared to brick, wood or metal options that may need regular treatments to maintain their appearance and integrity.

3. What Style and Design Preferences Do You Have?

• HDPE offers a wide range of colors and finishes. Consider whether the modern and somewhat industrial look of HDPE aligns with your aesthetic preferences and the overall design of your outdoor space. 

Does HDPE provide the design flexibility you need for your dream outdoor kitchen?

4. How Important Is Environmental Sustainability to You?

• Reflect on your values concerning sustainability. HDPE is a recyclable material, often made from recycled goods, offering an eco-friendly option compared to some traditional materials. How does this influence your decision?

5. Are You Planning for Specific Appliances or Features?

• Think about the appliances and features you wish to incorporate into your outdoor kitchen. Given HDPE’s sensitivity to extreme heat, how will you design your kitchen layout to accommodate grills, smokers, or pizza ovens while ensuring safety and longevity?

6. What Is Your Budget?

• Evaluate your financial readiness for an HDPE outdoor kitchen. While HDPE can be cost-effective in terms of maintenance, the initial setup costs can vary widely. How does this fit into your overall budget for outdoor space enhancements? Instead of constantly replacing unreliable stainless steel furniture, you can use the same HDPE cabinet for years.

7. Do You Anticipate Changes or Expansions in the Future?

• Consider whether you might want to modify or expand your outdoor kitchen down the line. HDPE is modular and relatively easy to adapt, but planning for potential future changes can help ensure that your initial design accommodates growth or reconfiguration.

8. How Will It Complement Your Outdoor Space?

• Think about how an HDPE kitchen will integrate with your outdoor living area. Will it complement the existing landscaping and outdoor furniture? Will other outdoor space elements need to be modified to harmonize with the new kitchen?

9. What Is the Expected Lifespan and Warranty?

• Research the lifespan and warranty coverage of HDPE outdoor kitchens. How does this compare to other materials you’re considering? Knowing the expected durability and manufacturer support can give peace of mind and influence decision-making.  In fact, our outdoor HDPE cabinets have a lifetime warranty! 

Brick outdoor kitchen vs HDPE: Comparison table

Feature	Brick Outdoor Kitchen	HDPE Outdoor Cabinets
Durability	– Highly durable and can withstand harsh outdoor conditions- Susceptible to cracking and crumbling over time if not properly maintained	– Highly resistant to weathering, corrosion, and UV damage- Completely waterproof and will not rot, warp, or develop mold
Maintenance	– Requires regular cleaning and sealing to maintain appearance- Stains, dirt, and grime can be difficult to remove- Repairing cracks or damaged mortar can be time-consuming and costly	– Incredibly easy to clean and maintain- Smooth, non-porous surface resists stains, dirt, and grime- No special sealants or treatments required
Customization	– Offers a classic, timeless look that can be tailored to various architectural styles- Brick can be laid in different patterns and colors for a unique appearance- Highly customizable with the ability to incorporate custom features	– Available in a wide range of colors and finishes to match outdoor decor- May have limited customization options compared to a fully custom brick outdoor kitchen
Cost and Installation	– Tend to be more expensive due to labor-intensive installation and material costs- Often requires the expertise of a skilled mason, further increasing project costs- May require additional structural support and foundation work	– Generally more affordable than brick, with lower material and installation costs- Prefabricated design makes them easier and quicker to install- Many manufacturers offer DIY-friendly installation options
Climate Suitability	– Brick is highly durable and can withstand harsh outdoor conditions, making it suitable for various climates	– HDPE is impervious to water or moisture, making it an excellent choice for wet climates

HDPE Cabinets are the Most Durable Option for Outdoor Kitchens

HDPE cabinets – and any outdoor HDPE furniture – will provide you a lifetime of durable protection for your kitchen supplies and food. This marine-grade material doesn’t rust, grow mold, stain, warp, or buckle. It’s also easy to clean with a simple wipedown session. 

When it comes to HDPE vs brick outdoor kitchen, there’s no contest on which one will give you the most value for your hard-earned dollar. 

Want to try out HDPE for yourself? Contact us today to get a quote and a refundable sample!